I sold a gaming console here and had a quick and painless process (they checked that the console worked & asked for my ID). The staff is much friendlier and nicer than big chain gaming stores. Overall, better prices and experience than those larger stores. read more

Cute little video game store with a great selection of older games, systems, accessories, and ephemera. They don't carry recent releases unless they're traded in, so this is more geared to retro gaming. They offer great value on trade-ins especially if you go for store credit. The people working there are super friendly and helpful. read more

Great prices! Great people! Really fun to go and check out what new games they have. I love calico gaming

Chill experience some retro and modern games and consoles! Has wire supplies replacements. Good with some competitive valued games Chill front desk employee read more

Always receive great service here. Awesome selection and knowledgeable staff. MANNY was very friendly and was able to help me figure out how to fix my GameCube that wasn't working. I recommend following their Instagram to get the latest on what new games they have in stock. read more

Calico Gaming - Video Game Stores Near Me - San Diego, California

It's embarrassing almost to call this my local retro video game store. Prices are put at the highest of PriceCharting prices and they overall lack passion and it's only for profit and you feel it the first time you step foot into the place read more

Calico games has great prices and quality products. Prices are usually better than Ebay, selection is better than most game shops. if you're in the area and like video games, this is the place to shop. read more

Decent selection of GameCube games priced at market value. Maybe slightly on the high side but hey at least there's no shipping and handling or waiting for a package to arrive. I got 3 complete in box games and was super satisfied. Was given some questionable advice about pouring rubbing alcohol into my console to fix a finicky disc tray "open" button. Not sure if the person misspoke but I am definitely not pouring a liquid into any electronics. So maybe don't say anything if this is your suggestion because I could imagine a lot of upset people with broken consoles if they tried this out. Idk read more

Worst gaming store I've ever been to, I would put 0 stars if it was an option... The reason is I went to trade in my gameboy sp because I needed the money and they lowballed me really bad. At the time I didn't know what they were really worth so I was just trying to get any cash I could get at the time. I ended up getting a receipt of 27 dollars store credit it wasn't even cash because they told me it would've been only FIFTEEN dollars. I texted my friend and told him how much they gave me for the gameboy and he said I should ask if I can get it back because they were ripping me off and he told me he could buy it from me for 80-100$. I was still at the store and I asked the employee if I can cancel the trade and get my gameboy back but they didn't let me, their excuse was that once it was in the system they couldn't reverse it and I thought that was such bs even though I had JUST sold it to them. So I was forced to stay with the 27 store credit even tho I had second thoughts and ultimately I wanted to keep my gameboy. I feel like they should've at least told me that once someone trades in their product there's no going back because "they" never told me anything about that, this store has no policy and is very unprofessional. at least GameStop lets you change your mind if you want to cancel the trade. My friend that wanted to buy the gameboy from me told me he went back to the store and they ended up selling my gameboy for $130 before taxes, so that means they made over a 100 dollar profit from me. I don't recommend anybody trading in their games, consoles, etc because they are THIEFS and all they want to do is rip you off and make a profit off you, the less they can give you for your product, the better. I feel like the pig of a store employee purposely didn't want to let me get my gameboy back so I don't take away their score that they got on me. I should've been able to have my gameboy back if I wanted to because ultimately it was MY gameboy and not theirs. and I know the only reason why that pig didn't let me take it back was so they can get their ballsy profit from my gameboy, this store doesn't care about their customers when it comes to trade ins, they will rob you. I'm never going back to this store again and I hope it's business burns to the ground. read more

Called this Calico Gaming store to see if they had a specific game that I was looking for (they didn't) but they offered to transfer it from another one of their store locations. Customer service was top notch and Robin called me as soon as my game came in!! Their used game prices are very reasonable and comparable to online. I've also traded in games to this location and they have been a pleasure to work with. Got more for my trade in dollars here than any other game store I've been to. read more

I have been to Calico on several occasions. They have a good selection of games that are displayed nicely throughout the store. Unfortunately, the biggest problem with the store is that of customer service. The gentleman who works there the majority of the time is extremely unfriendly and makes the experience in the store seem awkward every time I visit. On one occasion, he spent the entire time I was there complaining about his job and other people who work their to one of his friends. On one lucky occasion, the owner of the store was working and he was extremely pleasant. I wish he was there more often! I suggest Luna Video Games or Bookoff for a better customer service experience. read more

Visited on Saturday, Feb. 17. 4-5 stars for the great selection of vintage video games. Better pricing than Luna Games. 1 star for the rude customer service and overall uncomfortable vibe we felt in the store. When I was checking out the games in the glass display up front, the cashier overtly glanced at me and ignored me. Upon checkout, there was no greeting or verbal acknowledgement beyond telling us the total due. At the end of the transaction, my partner politely said "Have a good one," and there was no response, he was completely ignored. We left feeling uncomfortable and just weirded out by the vibe. The cashier was a man with light-colored long hair and glasses. read more

Very friendly staff and awesome selection. Tons of vintage/retro games. Staff had friendly conversation and great recommendations and would come again just for them! We picked up Super Mario Sunshine (Gamecube), LoZ Wind Waker (Gamecube), Yu Gi Oh Dark Duel Stories (GBC), Mario vs Donkey Kong 2 (NDS), and an accessories kit for the original Nintendo DS. read more

Calico Gaming - Yu-Gi-Oh Dark Duel Stories gameboy color game and Mario Vs Donkey Kong 2 March of Minis for Nintendo DS - Video Game Stores Near Me - San Diego, California

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A great store for any gamer, especially those born before 2000. They have games for almost every system, and multiple collector's editions of games from previous generations. The only downside is the size of the store makes it feel crowded. It is well-kept and organized, but can take a bit to browse. The staff are friendly and helpful. They only deal in pre-owned video games and some memorabilia and accessories from popular games. read more

I walked in today hoping to buy a retro game or gaming system. I'm pretty bored. There was a woman working the counter. She didn't greet me, and altogether ignored me, until another customer suggested that she see what I wanted. Feeling like I no longer wanted to spend my money there, I decided to leave after a while. She didn't even give me a send off. No "have a nice day", etc. I had shopper here before, and was treated well by Trevor, but I had never met this person, so I know I haven't done anything to rub her the wrong way. I can only guess that being an overweight person of color, not dressed like your "typical" game nerd, she felt as though I and my money don't matter. Sorry Calico Games; I loved your store on Carol Canyon, but I will no longer suggest it to my associates and friends, nor will I spend another dollar there while she is on duty. Let me know when she isn't working, and I'll come back on those days. Otherwise, Luna, here I come. read more

Dropped by here a week or two ago in search of a GameCube adapter for the Wii U (cause you know, 8-player Super Smash Bros!) and it was really cool they had it in stock. Price wasn't too bad, and I got to look around the store. Lots of games, many of them hard to find now, but also a lot of current titles as well. It was cool to see they carried a lot of the older system consoles for sale as well, and the staff was friendly and nice. Location is a bit secluded, but is very close to the I-15 freeway exit which is a plus. Worth a visit, and I'll be sure to check them out again when I'm in search of a game! read more

Cool shop with plenty of retro games and great customer service. Only 4 people are allowed in at a time due to COVID restrictions, and they are definitely honoring it and staying safe. Huge selection from OG Nintendo to Playstation, etc. I didn't find what I'm looking for, but I'd definitely make the drive all the way up from the South Bay to browse their collection! read more

i waited 15 after 12 and the working was about to open the door but he apparently left the keys somewhere else and left so now i have to wait more. i don't recommend this place at all. bad service edit: it has now been 25 minutes, will not be coming back here anytime soon, and now he came back and left again guess he got the wrong keys again ‍ this was very disappointing seeing all of the other reviews from google, and it was a waste of my gas and time ! read more

First time at Calico Gaming. I had called ahead to ask if they had Phantasy Star Online Ver 2, which they did. Drove over and took a look, they have a fantastic selection of games/consoles/anime related stuff overall. Both the employees working today were extremely nice. Ended up purchasing PSO for a very fair price, will definitely be coming back for future vintage gaming needs. read more

Have passed by several times on the way back home, decided to stop by and check out today. Pretty organized and clean little shop, definitely has a lot more than you'd expect. The tall guy working there was cleaning some controllers, good sign that the shop cares about the quality of their stuff. He was helpful and cool to talk to, definitely recommend checking the place out. Just a heads up the shop is tucked away in a corner so hard to spot if you're casually passing the area. read more

fair prices, great experience, and wish I could visit all the time. really the best gaming store in SD

This place is amazing. Offered better prices for used games than anywhere else in San Diego. If you need to buy sell or trade I'd go here

Great vintage game selection! The staff, young guy and girl, were very helpful. They looked up tons of odd titles I was hunting and were very accommodating. Highly recommended! read more

The store is clean and organized. The employees working are knowledgeable about all things games. When I went in the other day, an employee named Andre helped me find the exact game I was looking for on the Gamecube. He was friendly and patient. read more

they had what i was looking for at a great price. the staff is friendly. if i ever need anything retro im going there.

This place was amazing. Helped me get a new Genesis. The worker there was incredibly kind and helpful. This place has great prices and would totally recommend. read more

Decided to stop by here and check it out one afternoon, since work let out early. Parking was a little small, but I found a space easily. Walking in it looked a little dark and dingy. Upon walking in though I was greeted by one employee, and he was accompanied with what looked to be a friend. The store actually had a ton of cool stuff, especially as a retro gamer fan. They had tons of toys, video games, and even some cards. Everything from consoles, games, and accessories is available through out the store. They even had a case full of more rare games. Everything was also decently priced, which made me want to more than just window shop. I did have a couple of questions for the cashier, and he answered them quite easily and friendly. I ended up just getting a used amiibo, and some magic packs, then got rung up and headed out. Cool shop, decent prices, and friendly service. I look forward to spending my extra disposable income here again. read more

I am so relieved that this place exists. They told me that they've been in this location for two years now. They even have the antique games like the Game & Watch, family computer cartridges, snes and especially older consoles. Great customer service. Would love to come back here again. And I'm also glad that it's not too far from where I live. read more

Wow! I never knew this place existed, until a few weeks ago! I always thought the one in Escondido was the only place (and far!). Prices range from fair to outrageous, but depends on what you're after. I also think it has a slightly bigger selection than the Escondido location. The biggest plus is the guy behind the counter was very nice and made you feel very welcome. I bought a few niche import games for the Saturn, PS2, & PS3 and plan on buying some more soon if they keep stocking up on "new" stuff. All retro gamers should check this place out! read more

Helpful, friendly staff! Lots of variety ranging from gameboy and Sega CD to Atari and Dreamcast games! Prices are very reasonable. Games come with a one week warranty, and consoles with a 2 month warranty! Highly recommend for any retro gamer! read more

This is my personal opinion.. This place has a wide variety of games! Primarily older games/consoles. I was not disappointed to find games that I have so dearly treasured playing back when in my early adolescent years. Along with that, the staff is great! Robin is very knowledgeable and can get answers quickly! Highly recommend anyone looking for games to check this place out first before going somewhere else! read more

This place will definitely be my #1 place to get retro games from now on! They're super clean, brightly lit, and nearly everything is in alphabetical order, so it's super easy to find anything! They have some great steals for some pretty new games, too! And when I walked in, they had just started up the Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack. Perfect ambiance! read more

My hubby came to this store and it just completely brought the kid out in him. The prices here are waaay better than Game Stop and the owner that works there is so knowledgeable & he's a really sweet dude! This store was awesome but the Esco one does have a lot more stuff. The owner was nice enough to make a deal with us for the games we wanted. He was so adorable and so inviting. So happy with this store! Hubbs will be coming back regularly. read more

Honestly, best retro game store in San Diego. Great customer service & they know what they are doing. I have been coming here for new releases, pick ups, game accessories, & everything video games. They give you good buy back prices & they hook you up with their awesome customer service. Watch out retro game stores. Calico is here to stay! Hoorah. read more

Everything a small owned gaming store should be. Offers more for trade ins and has a wide selection of retro consoles and games. This is my new go to. read more

I got credit for a reseal Transformers Decepticon game that Gamestop only will trade if it open. I PS2 game with the collections of some of the best Capcom games. read more

Store was clean and not cluttered. Person behind the counter not very friendly. Good selection on new games but over priced on the older stuff. Higher then amazon or eBay. First time there, probably won't be back. read more

Excellent customer service. Just bought a PS3 console. They went out of their way for us. This will be our new go-to store for games. Awesome people. Stand behind their sales. read more

This is a great local business that sells retro and current games. I came in here to purchase a GameCube controller after realizing the only other place I could get one at an affordable price was GameStop. Unlike GameStop, they were offering better trade values on used games and it was a really cool store. You'd see classic games and systems lined up on the walls. The controller was slightly more expensive, but I could physically see the controller rather than GameStop which only had an online order. The additional cost was also offset by the higher trade in value they offered. They had incredibly friendly staff and the process was a breeze. I love supporting local game stores so I'd recommend checking this place out! You won't regret it! read more

This place is as advertised! Tons of vintages games. Prices are a little high but they have to make their money some way. Besides, I like supporting a local business. These kind of places don't really exist anymore so getting to look around was like jumping in a time machine. Picked up some good condition PS1 games. They even have a Japanese import collection! The employee on staff seemed busy but still took the time out to chat it up with me and look up some stuff I was looking for on the computer. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience. Can you get some of these games cheaper on EBay? Yes, but the pros listed above make this place a must visit. read more