LGS Isn’t Stocking Where To Buy Board Games And More
Finding your favorite games can sometimes feel like a quest in itself. Local Game Stores (LGS), the heart and soul of the tabletop and gaming community, are often the first place gamers turn to for new releases, restocks, and that special, hard-to-find gem. But what happens when your LGS isn’t stocking the game you’re after? It can be frustrating, but don't worry! This doesn't mean the end of your gaming aspirations. It simply means it's time to explore alternative avenues. This article will delve into the various reasons why your LGS might be out of stock and, more importantly, guide you through a comprehensive list of places where you can buy your desired games. From online retailers to distributors and even considering pre-ordering and special orders, we’ll cover all the bases so you can get back to gaming as soon as possible. We will also explore strategies for staying informed about upcoming releases and restocks, ensuring you're always one step ahead in the game.
Why Isn't Your LGS Stocking the Game You Want?
Before we dive into where to buy, let's understand why your LGS might not have the game you're looking for. Several factors can contribute to this situation, and knowing these reasons can help you better navigate the process of finding your game. One of the primary reasons is limited distribution. Not all games are available to every store. Some publishers have exclusive distribution agreements, meaning their games are only sold through specific channels or retailers. This can be particularly true for smaller indie games or those published overseas. Another factor is high demand. If a game is incredibly popular, it can sell out quickly, leaving LGS struggling to keep it in stock. This is especially common with new releases or games that have received a lot of positive buzz. The size and storage capacity of the LGS also plays a significant role; smaller stores may simply not have the physical space to stock a wide variety of games. They might prioritize stocking the most popular titles or those that cater to their specific customer base. Supply chain issues can also impact availability. Manufacturing delays, shipping bottlenecks, and other logistical challenges can disrupt the flow of games from publishers to retailers. This has been a particularly prevalent issue in recent years, affecting the availability of many products across various industries, including the gaming industry. Finally, ordering decisions made by the store owner or manager also influence what's on the shelves. They might choose not to stock a game if they don't believe there's sufficient local demand, or they might have made a conscious decision to focus on specific genres or game types. Understanding these factors can help you approach your search for a game with a more informed perspective.
Exploring Online Retailers
When your LGS comes up short, the vast world of online retailers offers a treasure trove of possibilities. Online retailers provide a convenient and expansive alternative to brick-and-mortar stores, often offering a wider selection, competitive prices, and the ability to shop from the comfort of your own home. One of the giants in this realm is Amazon, a sprawling marketplace that carries a massive inventory of board games, card games, and tabletop accessories. Its extensive reach and competitive pricing make it a go-to for many gamers. However, it's always wise to compare prices and check seller ratings, as third-party sellers can sometimes have varying levels of service and pricing. Another prominent online retailer specializing in games is Miniature Market. Known for its extensive selection and frequent sales, Miniature Market is a favorite among hobbyists. They offer a wide range of games, from popular titles to more niche and hard-to-find items. BoardGameBliss is also a great option, particularly for those in Canada, but they ship internationally as well. They have a comprehensive selection and often offer pre-order options for upcoming releases. For those looking for a more curated selection, Noble Knight Games is an excellent choice. They specialize in both new and out-of-print games, making them a fantastic resource for tracking down those elusive titles. Their website is well-organized, making it easy to browse and find specific games. When shopping online, it's crucial to consider shipping costs and return policies. Shipping fees can sometimes add a significant amount to the overall cost, so it's essential to factor that into your budget. Reviewing the return policy is also vital, ensuring you can return the game if it arrives damaged or isn't what you expected. By exploring these online retailers, you significantly increase your chances of finding the game you're after.
Diving into Online Marketplaces and Forums
Beyond traditional online retailers, online marketplaces and forums offer another avenue for finding games, often with unique opportunities to snag rare or discounted titles. These platforms connect buyers and sellers directly, fostering a community-driven approach to game trading and sales. eBay stands as a giant in the online marketplace world, hosting a vast selection of games, both new and used. It's an excellent place to search for out-of-print games or those that are no longer readily available in retail stores. The auction format can sometimes lead to competitive bidding, but it also presents the chance to find a great deal. Be sure to carefully review seller feedback and product descriptions before making a purchase. BoardGameGeek (BGG), the ultimate online resource for board game enthusiasts, also features a robust marketplace. BGG's marketplace is integrated directly into the site, making it easy to search for games, communicate with sellers, and track your transactions. The strong community aspect of BGG adds a layer of trust and transparency to the buying and selling process. There are also dedicated Facebook groups and Reddit communities centered around board game trading and sales. These groups often have strict rules and moderation to ensure a safe and positive experience for all members. Engaging in these communities can provide access to a wide network of fellow gamers, many of whom are willing to sell or trade games from their personal collections. When using online marketplaces and forums, prioritize safety and communication. Always use secure payment methods, such as PayPal, and communicate clearly with the seller regarding the game's condition, shipping costs, and return policy. Asking questions and clarifying any doubts before making a purchase can help prevent potential issues. These platforms can be a fantastic resource for finding hidden gems and connecting with other gamers, but due diligence is key.
Exploring Direct from Publishers
Another excellent avenue to explore when your LGS isn't stocking a game is purchasing directly from the publisher. Many game publishers have online stores where they sell their games directly to consumers, often offering exclusive editions, bundles, or early releases. This can be a particularly effective strategy for finding games from smaller, independent publishers or those that have a strong online presence. Buying directly from the publisher often ensures you're getting the game at the suggested retail price (SRP), and you may also benefit from promotions, discounts, or loyalty programs. Some publishers also offer pre-order options for upcoming releases, allowing you to secure a copy of the game before it hits retail shelves. This can be especially useful for highly anticipated games that are likely to sell out quickly. Asmodee, one of the largest board game distributors, has its own online store that carries games from many different publishers under its umbrella. This makes it a convenient one-stop shop for a wide variety of titles. Stonemaier Games, known for popular titles like Scythe and Wingspan, has a direct-to-consumer online store that offers their games, expansions, and accessories. They often provide detailed product information and engaging content about their games. Many smaller indie publishers also have their own online stores. By purchasing directly from them, you're not only securing the game you want but also supporting the creators and helping them continue to produce great content. When purchasing directly from publishers, be sure to check their shipping policies and delivery times. Shipping costs can vary, and it's essential to factor that into your purchasing decision. You should also consider signing up for publisher newsletters or following them on social media to stay informed about new releases, promotions, and restocks. By exploring this option, you can often find unique games and support the publishers you love.
Distributors and Special Orders
If you've exhausted other options, exploring distributors and special orders can be a viable strategy for acquiring a hard-to-find game. Distributors act as intermediaries between publishers and retailers, supplying games to LGS and other stores. While they typically don't sell directly to consumers, understanding how they work can inform your approach to special orders. Contacting your LGS and inquiring about special orders is a key step. Most LGS have relationships with distributors and can order games on your behalf, even if they don't typically stock them. This often involves paying a deposit or the full price upfront, and it may take some time for the game to arrive, but it's a reliable way to secure a copy of the game you want. The LGS can check with their distributors to see if the game is available and place an order for you. Keep in mind that the availability of special orders depends on the distributor's inventory and the publisher's distribution agreements. Not all games are available for special order, particularly those with limited distribution or those that are out of print. When placing a special order, it's essential to communicate clearly with your LGS about your expectations regarding price, delivery time, and return policy. Get a clear understanding of the total cost, including shipping fees, and inquire about the estimated delivery timeframe. Also, clarify the store's policy on returns and refunds in case the game arrives damaged or isn't what you expected. In some cases, if you know the distributor that your LGS uses, you might be able to check their website or contact them directly to inquire about the availability of a specific game. While they won't sell directly to you, they may be able to provide information about which retailers carry the game or when it might be restocked. This information can be valuable in your search. By exploring distributors and special orders, you can tap into a broader network of game suppliers and increase your chances of finding the game you're looking for.
Staying Informed: Pre-Orders and Restock Notifications
Being proactive is key to securing the games you want, especially when faced with stock shortages. Leveraging pre-orders and restock notifications can significantly increase your chances of acquiring those coveted titles. Pre-ordering a game is essentially reserving a copy before it's officially released. This ensures that you're among the first to receive the game when it becomes available. Many online retailers and LGS offer pre-order options, often with discounts or special bonuses to incentivize early purchases. Pre-ordering is particularly useful for highly anticipated games or those from popular publishers, as these titles tend to sell out quickly. To stay informed about upcoming releases and pre-order opportunities, sign up for newsletters from game publishers and online retailers. These newsletters often provide early announcements, release dates, and exclusive pre-order deals. Following publishers and retailers on social media is another effective way to stay in the loop. They often post updates about new games, restocks, and special promotions. Setting up restock notifications is another valuable strategy. Many online retailers allow you to sign up for email alerts that notify you when a specific game is back in stock. This eliminates the need to constantly check websites for availability and ensures you're alerted as soon as the game becomes available. Take advantage of community resources, such as BoardGameGeek (BGG), to track game releases and restocks. BGG has a dedicated section for upcoming games and allows users to mark games as "owned," "wishlisted," or "pre-ordered," helping you stay organized. You can also participate in discussions and forums on BGG to get insights from other gamers about where to find specific games or when they might be restocked. By utilizing pre-orders and restock notifications, you're taking a proactive approach to game acquisition, significantly improving your chances of securing the games you desire.
Conclusion: The Hunt for Your Game
When your LGS isn't stocking the game you're after, it can feel like a setback, but it's far from a dead end. As we've explored, the world of game acquisition is vast and varied, offering numerous avenues to explore. From the expansive selections of online retailers like Amazon and Miniature Market to the community-driven marketplaces on eBay and BoardGameGeek, there are countless opportunities to find the games you're looking for. Don't overlook the option of buying directly from publishers, which often provides access to exclusive editions and supports the creators you love. Special orders through your LGS and exploring distributors can also open up new possibilities. Above all, staying informed is crucial. Utilize pre-orders and restock notifications to get ahead of the curve and secure those highly sought-after titles. Remember, the hunt for a game can be part of the fun. Embrace the process, explore the options, and connect with the gaming community. With a bit of persistence and the strategies outlined in this article, you'll be well-equipped to find the games you desire and keep your gaming collection thriving. So, keep searching, keep exploring, and keep gaming!
