They are closed down even though they site says open and Apple Maps says open. For every one wonder is it's closed closed closed

Great people, huge selection of games as well as minis, dice, and adventures. They also host card game tournaments and plenty of other live events. read more

**DON'T TELL MY WIFE ABOUT THIS REVIEW** OK, now that no one is looking....I LOVE THIS PLACE! My wife would not approve, I do my best to hide my inner geek, the good thing is she loves me no matter what! This place is a great place for a quick geek-gasm. They have all things needed for RPGs, table top games, board games, mini's, etc. I can spend all day in here. The only thing I can think of is some of the workers are pretty laid back and usually talking with customers/friends, don't get me wrong, they are talking work related stuff but if you are new to this world of fantasy it can be a little intimidating. They are very helpful though and do not make you feel dumb for not knowing certain things. If you are into boffer (I am not) this I guess is your mecca. They have all the items you need as well as a league you can join. They come out to events and parties if you want to have them host a boffer event for your party, the prices are real cheap. I love how they have all the fun and exciting fantasy stuff and still have board games like connect four and monopoly! They are completely legitimized in my book now that they carry most of the zombie games! UPDATE: My wife is aware of my infidelity from my "coolness" She is such a good wife, she broke down and played a round of D&D mini's with me. I am not going to say who won...I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT!!!!! :) P.S. Don't tell my wife that I told you that she played D&D :) read more

Game Matrix - Hobby Shops Near Me - Lakewood, Washington

An institution in the area, with a LOT of tables to play. Last I checked they didn't charge for table time, which is unusual. Previously they had networked LAN gaming but they removed those in favor of more shop space. Would be nice to see more scheduled events like a painting or gaming terrain seminar, or a swap meet for handmade / painted minis, and I think that would bring in more traffic. But I don't know what to suggest; anyone with hot ideas for running a gaming shop? ;) Am I right in remembering that The Gamers was filmed in a back room? read more

So I post a review and get attacked, then my review gets deleted. That's funny. So, I'll post it again! I've known Chris for over 17 years now and this is my go to gaming store for all my gaming needs. Whether I need a set of dice for the upcoming game, a model to represent something during a fight, or some boffer weapons to beat up my neighbors, I know The Game Matrix has it in stock. Want to paint your models?. They have that too. Looking for some cool board games? No problem. I remember the days of the used game box and my gaming book collection soared from items from there. Chris also has TONS of space for playing your favorite games. Whether it's a 2,000pt Warhammer 40k battle, Pokemon the CCG, Magic: the Gathering, or some space to role play, the Game Matrix can accommodate that. There is parking in the front and back and sometimes they will up rather quickly. With late night gaming (until at least midnight) most nights of the week, you'll never want to leave. read more

I was very disappointed in the Game Matrix. I've been wanting to stop by there for a while to support local game shops in my area instead of buying from big corporations, but I will never be shopping there again. The lady at the counter had no idea what a top loader was, and if you're advertising your store as card/hobby shop your employees should know what a top loader is. She also acted annoyed when we kept asking questions but I think it's because she literally had no answers for us. They had no selection of top loaders and only one brand of card sleeves. They had absolutely NO cards - they did have a good selection of board games, but again, if you're going to advertise yourself as a card shop, maybe have some sleeves and top loader and card selections. So disappointed. It also smelled like old throw up in there which was awful. read more

So, I have been frequenting game stores in the Pierce County area for over two decades. I walk into the Game Matrix whenever I am in the area. It's mostly to check out what nerdy clothes or a bit of wish fulfillment whenever I want to indulge in hobbies I just don't have the time anymore. It is a decent store. I've seen periods when they ebb and flow with whatever the gaming trend is, and have managed to keep the lights on. Clearly this is an indicator of having some sort of idea what gamers want. I have been in here when they had the LAN gaming on PCs and have been in from time to time to see people do random table top gaming. There are a few things that can be improved, but with the margins for gaming--there is only so much wiggle room. With a finite space to retail items you can find a little bit of everything (I.e. Magic: The Gathering booster packs, but not the best singles). This is a good place to find down to earth customer service and a start to doing any sort of PRE-search to gaming. In a niche market that most hobby shops seem to have a lifetime of zero to four years--this has been a store with staying power. read more

I loved this place, and it got me my start in tabletop gaming when I was in the military, still going strong after 20 years thank you game matrix!!! read more

Great place for magic cards and table top campaigns, if you're looking for a new pen and paper adventure. Found a few campaigns to add to my pathfinder collection. Skulls and shackles by far my favorite and the Freeport hard cover was a great find. Thank you. read more

Ugh! Let me preface this with letting you know that I love board games and tabletop gaming, so it's not like I didn't know what I was getting into when I walked into this store.... ...That being said, this store is just kind of gross. It's a little smelly, and it's in a rough part of town. The games are all jumbled up and difficult to navigate. The prices are way above MSRP and the staff is usually too wrapped up in their little group of friends to actually help new costumers. There are plenty of much better, more friendly, and generally cleaner gaming establishments to frequent in Tacoma. read more

My husband and I have been going here for over two years now and have spent somewhere around 1500 dollars on 40K models. Within the past month alone we have been here around 5 times to pick up models and supplies, because they are the closest to where we live. When we stopped in today I was immediately asked if I could "park my purse" at the counter (mind you, my purse is not very big), even though I have been inside with my purse every time this month. The lady at the counter was very snide and rude while talking to me, and I told her I would just wait outside while my husband shops instead of leaving my purse (wallet, phone, and personal items inside) with her. I am clearly not one that would take products, and they are able to watch us while we shop with no difficulty. The way she spoke to me was highly inappropriate and rude, especially for a longstanding customer. While my husband was shopping he was asked, by the same attendant, if he had ever shopped at their store - in a clipped tone that bordered on snide and distrusting. It was clearly as if she did not want us in the store. I am not sure what the deal was, but the lady was overly rude to both of us. Not only that, there was another employee standing at the counter next to her (who we have seen on multiple occasions) the whole time looking bored. I hate to say it but we will be taking our business back to Games Workshop. My husband is a tournament player in 40k and has been playing for 18 years, we know how important it is to support the local game stores. It just saddens me this one comes with a lot of snide attitudes. Save your money folks, this place is not worth it. read more

I play Pokemon here occasionally, probably 7-10 times a year on average. Overall it's a pretty nice shop. It's decent sized, it's got a solid selection, it's not hard to find, close to food, etc. I have to only give it a three though because I've found the staff to be generally unhelpful/unfriendly, and the building also has a horrible smell. Now, I understand that gaming shops aren't exactly day spas, but I've been in my fair share and this place has the most ridiculous odor I've ever smelled. I have a hard time playing there sometimes, because of this. As far as it's merits as a shop though, it's solid except for the staff. I enjoy my time there. read more

They have a wide variety of products, but not much for the type of things I'm usually looking for (Call of Cthulhu, D&D 5e). Tons of Pathfinder and board or war gaming supplies if you're interested in those. I find the staff that I've experienced to be friendly and helpful, personally. The worst part is typically the smell emanating from the play area, but that isn't so much the store's fault as the patrons. read more

This place has a very large selection of tabletop gaming products. That's about the only thing positive I can say about it. They're way overpriced for the convenience of having everything there and most (not all) of the staff are just awful and pushy. Once, my friends and I went to play a short game of 40k (500 points), and the clerk told us no less than three times loudly that the store was closing in a couple hours even though another big gaming group showed up for a long late game. Another time we went to play short games on the weekend and the store was completely packed. One of the players at the table next to us shat his pants and didn't even pause before continuing his game. We aren't going back. I'll drive an hour to Bremerton and pay the bridge toll back just to play at Discordia instead. read more

While this store has had some challenges, the owner is responsive and willing to reach out to the gaming community. In general the selection is wide and the staff helpful, although at times can get a little stressed. I would love to see some low maintenance carpet in the gaming area and maybe less cluttered front windows, but these are quibbles. This replaces a strongly worded negative review that was written in anger and frustration. The owner wrote me a wonderful note explaining the situation and upon further reflection, this is a more accurate review. I'm less inclined to say never again and more inclined to say well it's on the way to our game, let's see if we can get those dice. read more

I have been a long time customer of this particular gaming store now for over 15+years. I have known the owner and his wife for that same time period. I have known the present and past staff also during this time period. By far, this is the best gaming store in the area. It is large, it has plenty of room to game in, the selection of miniatures is extensive, the selection of board games is great, the prices are comparable to every gaming store in the local area, caters to a wide diversity of gamers regardless of genre, staff is pleasant, and overall, a total, positive experience to visit. I have read all of the reviews on YELP concerning this particular gaming store and it does not surprise me to see the number of complaints that are coming from a small group of gamers who think they are entitled to lower prices because they cannot afford the costs. Guess what people, all gaming stores in this area charge the same amount for the same board game, miniatures, paints, RPG products, card games, and so on. Get a better job that pays well so you can afford to buy the product. You have a few who complain that the store "smells" or that some people stink. Guess what, show me a gaming store where there is not a small minority of gamers who reek of body odor. Who cares how much you spent in the store. What does that suppose to mean? You are claiming that because you spend a lot of money and you deserve special preferential treatment? Let me tell you what is not worth it, your silly, pedantic snowflake whining complaints of which there is no specifics, just generalizations. Te gaming community has its whiners. The gaming community has its share of thieves. The gaming community has it anti-social crowd. The gaming community has its "smelly, greasy haired. live in the mother's basement" population. The gaming community has its share of gamers who cannot afford the current prices of gaming product. Who are you to complain and make it sound that you are entitled to better? Chris and his wife conduct special sales throughout the year and actually cater on certain holidays especially the big New Year party. They have been successful in ensuring that all gaming needs are available especially the military/wargaming community of which no other store in the area caters to. They have been a huge part of the gaming community. They support many gaming conventions in the local area. They support the Renaissance Faire at Bonney Lake. They have done so much that their accolades cannot be easily counted. If you want to learn how to paint miniatures, Chris and his wife plus the staff will assist you in doing so. If you want to know how a game is played or want to play a game before purchase, that can be accomplished as well. If you want to special order items, that is easily done with some planning and simple communication. One of the best things about the Game Matrix is that it is free to play there whereas there are some stores that charge for a table per hour to play. Everything a gaming store should be is at the Game Matrix. read more

I've been a customer at Game Matrix in Tacoma for several years and love the variety of board games, miniatures and role playing games that they carry. I know I could probably save a little money buying online, but having this store in our local community is more important to me than a few dollars here and there. I find the employees very helpful and knowledgeable. I like being able to talk to a person and get questions answered and advice about the games I am interested in. It is also nice to have an open gaming area where I can meet new people and / or play games that take up too much space to play at home. read more

My favorite Greater Seattle Tacoma gaming company! They've set the bar so high for table top stores around the sound. There hasn't been a single game I can't find here and the staff are legit gamers looking out for their community. Can't say enough positive things :) read more

Great SERVICE!!! John H. was so helpful in finding a board game for me and getting it in within 7 days! BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! This place is awesome... :) read more

There are few game stores as great as the Game Matrix. I live in Seattle even, but visit the Matrix any time I can. Chris the owner takes a hands on personal approach, always willing to sit down and demo a game before you buy. They will special order hard to get items and reserve pre-orders of new releases. This is one of the great game stores on the Puget Sound. They support many local game events, you'll see them at local Cons. Be sure to check out the boffer sword parties they offer, fantastic for kids birthdays. read more

Recently I saw An independently released movie that featured this little store in it. If you have a chance to see The Gamers: Dorkness Rising I think you will find yourself mildly surprised at this good sequel especially if you have ever done any role-playing. read more

I had high hopes for this store. High enough that I kept going back looking for some indication they would improve. It never happened. They have garbage everywhere; the bathrooms - don't ask. The clerks are clueless as to where to find things; a complete lack of organization and even worse when it comes to restocking. I made my last visit today. I wish them luck. read more

Great game store with just about every tabletop game you can think of. The best part is they offer a free place to play. I started going here for the D&D nights and I made a lot of friends which was great because I had just moved to the area. I honestly can't say enough good things about this store and the fact that they offer a free place to play is by far one of the best perks of shopping at The Game Matrix. Better than any other game store in the Lakewood-Tacoma area. read more

The Game Matrix is a great asset to the gaming community. A great selection of games and gifts, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. The owner Chris personally helped me, and showed genuine interest in taking care of us. The same goes for the rest of the clients there as well. Friendly atmosphere and people. If you have never been to The Game Matrix, make sure you stop by. You will soon be hooked, too! read more

Stock galore! Staff helped me with any and all questions I've had. No they are not jumping out of their seats all excited to see you when you walk in but they are professional and helpful. I would definitely recommend this store. read more

Great place! The staff and owner are super knowledgeable. If you want recommendations for games, this is THE place to go. There's plenty of room for gaming too. read more

The place has great stock! However, the employees are rude and often tell me that what I'm buying is terrible/stupid. They're extremely elitist. Myself and all of my friends have stopped buying things from them to avoid the nasty attitudes, which is a shame because they really do have cool things. They also have a really nasty smell. It's not even traditional gamer BO, either. I was in there one time playing L5R and the whole place reeked of dirty cat litter. I've never seen a store cat, so that's really weird... read more

Many tables to play boardgames and tabletop games. A really good collection of boardgames and tabletop wargaming/RPG paraphernalia. Some boffer equipment. No magic singles. read more

I've been in and out of game stores for the last three decades. I play everything; RPGs, board games, wargames. I even dabble in the occasional LARP. The Game Matrix is a great home base for me. It's got a huge inventory and a ton of play space, including a dozen banquet tables (for board, card, or rpg) and a half-dozen dedicated terrain-included wargame tables. I was first pulled in by a 40k tournament, but now I'm doing casual leagues for Flames of War, DBA, and Battletech. I'm also going to move my twice-monthly D&D group there so we have some more space. Can't recommend it enough. read more

A little crowded when anything worth being there is going on, otherwise great place to be.

I mean this in the exactly A-OK sort of way vs strongly mediocre or something. Pros +Their selection really is quite impressive. You'll find stuff in the store that isn't even available on Amazon, which is something I was not aware was possible. This alone makes it a good place to drop in and at least browse. +Staff is...."helpful" like not in a way I'd associate with Best Buy "HELLO I AM TOM I AM YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND" aggressively helpful, but I have always felt that if I needed help, they were around. On the one occasion I actually sought out assistance the clerk actually helped me search more or less the entire store for something I did not spot (it turned out to be out of stock that one specific day). On average the staff seems to run a pretty wide range in terms of personality (which can be off putting I imagine), but I've never felt like they were inaccessible. +Store is better ordered than you'd think. There's some things out of place, or odd (like the microarmor appears in three different locations in the store, rule books and miniatures are often in different places), but it's all clean, and mounted in a way you can actually get at rather than abandoned in a series of bins or something. +I've never attended, but the "game" areas look impressive, and there's usually someone using them at least. Cons -The prices really are a huge problem for me. It's always MSRP or worse. You will nearly always pay more for going to Games Matrix, and more than a few occasions I've found out it was significantly more vs a bit more. It's one of the reasons I've really cut back on visiting because as much as I like walking into a real storefront, browsing and interacting with fellow geeks, it's hard to do when often I can be saving 10-20 bucks on just one item by going online. Before you go I strongly recommend if you're shopping for a specific item, you look it up online first and see how much the prices differ in the store. Not so much out of spite...but I'm willing to pay an extra 5-7 bucks to have something "now" or some other similar justification (miniature tank retail therapy). I'm not willing to spend an extra 20-30 bucks for something I can wait for Amazon Prime length shipping times though. -The paint/brush/hobby tool selection is so-so. They've got a few of the larger vallejo and GW paint displays, but often the higher-use colors are out of stock. As far as brushes and other tools, you get the impression they might order them once a year, and if you show up after that then you're set, but otherwise you're stuck with whatever brushes and the like is left over some months on. Going to Games Matrix really is a bit of a luxury. If you want to physically look at boxes, sift through rows of tiny lead mens, flip through rule books, it's a great experience, and I enjoy just the experience of a well stocked "nerdstore" as I call them. But I can't do it often, and frequently if I just want item X, I know I'm much better off ordering item X from online and calling it good. read more