I try to frequent the Thursday free game-nights. They have an excellent selection of titles and the staff are both friendly and knowledgeable. Prices are a bit steeper than you may find online, but I would say well worth supporting the offerings they have. read more

Labyrinth ran games at my son's bar mitzvah and we could not be more satisfied. There were many adults who sneered a bit at the idea that it would be a games-only party yet many of them played and had a great time. It was a fantastic ice breaker and frankly better than alcohol for getting interactions flowing. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable and enthusiastic--there when they were needed and unobtrusive otherswise. Our event was about 125 people and games were the primary source of entertainment. Another bonus, none of the kids got up to mischief and those who were strangers played well together. read more

Kathleen's store is a gem on Capitol Hill. Her staff is friendly and knowledgable about all the games. The best part of this store is how it's not just about selling games, it's about developing the community of people to play them. The environment is confortable, well lit, and clean. At the same time, though, she is not upset about people bringing some chips and soda to eat as they hack their way through a den of goblins. It's a great place to organize gaming get togethers, and she's been endlessly helpful with organizing events. Since she's opened the store, she's been great about opening her store to the larger gaming community. She's also proven to be GBLT friendly. Anything she does not have in stock, she's willing to order, in particular she's been very good about acquiring indie-games and retro-D&D clones. Gamers are smart and creative people, in general. I'm happy that there's finally a place for them to gather in the city. read more

The staff know their games and are super helpful. I came with a specific question and referred to a multiplayer game that I loved and asked about two-person games that were similar. I could not be happier with the recommendation. The selection is huge and they carry just about every expansion that I could think of. They cover a variety of euro games, puzzle games, classic games (like monopoly, clue) and some games from Asia (Go, some Japanese resource games). The store also has a large table area in the back for parties and events. The store definitely has a community feel to it and I saw signs for events for kids and adults alike. read more

For product selection and customer service, you can't ask for much more from a board game and puzzle store. Labyrinth is the total package. They pull off the feat of stocking games, puzzles, and diversions for a wide range of audiences and tastes-- for anyone from kids to teens to adults, and for those interested in anything from brain teasers you can play on the john to party games to all-out day-eating strategy games-- while also stocking a lot of different options within each category. And they stock game accessories, expansion card packs, etc. out the wazoo. Labyrinth is a great place to shop if you're at all interested in tabletop gaming or puzzles, or if you're gift-shopping for a friend of that persuasion. What's more, Labyrinth's staff really knows their games. I went there looking for an out-of-print game (Betrayal at House on the Hill) and although they didn't have it in stock (the game being out-of-print and all), they offered to put me on a notification list for the next time they get the game in stock and talked me through a half-dozen other games similar to the one I was looking for. The kind of helpful, informed, and friendly service at Labyrinth is the kind of customer service that all businesses should aspire to. They also have several gaming events and tournaments. It seems that every time I walk in, there's some card game tournament going on in the back. Good times for young and old alike! read more

Really nice people, great game selection, and they have a hugely popular board game night on Thursdays. If you're a fan of board games, it should definitely be #1 on your list in DC. The store is clean, well-lit and quite spacious. I was surprised when I saw how large it is on the inside because the store does not seem too large from the street. My only gripe is that the games are a bit on the expensive side. The store charges MSRP prices but I really think they should offer some sort of rewards program (if they do, they don't do a good job of advertising it). Even something like $1 in store credit for every $10 spent would go a long way, I think. I support the store because I love their selection, staff, and the Thursday night board game night so I am willing to pay the higher price. However, when a game here costs $60 and on Amazon is $40, I think the store is losing out on a lot of potential business by not having a rewards program. read more

Is there a store I like to visit more in DC than Labyrinth? Maybe, but it'd be hard to choose... This place is amazing. Yes, it's the only major game store in DC, but even if there were many others, I suspect I'd still come to Labyrinth. I've visited game stores around the country, and this is one of my favorites. Couple reasons why: -the owner and her staff are just amazing. Always there, always thoughtful, always reliable, and always interested. -the games are always changing and shifting, with real effort to expose visitors to new and cool games -riddle of the day!!! ah! my favorite -very open and welcoming organization, making things really nice for kids, families, and casual gamers in a way that you don't often see in similar game stores I never make a visit to Capitol Hill without swinging by, and more often than not, I can't help but pick something up. Definitely go visit if you can! In fact, writing this review has inspired me. I'm heading off to their used game sale now. read more

Love! I stumbled upon this gem after an evening of walks in Eastern Market. This shop is new and such a find! Full of puzzles, games, and other logic puzzles that had the inner nerd in me skipping with glee! I can't wait until it starts to get really snowy and I have a lot more free time so I can stop by this place to pick up some puzzles. Wooo. The owner Kathleen was very sweet and things are just starting to pick up for this charming little shop. Talks about having game days for teachers? Yes please! Puzzles and games are very reasonably priced. I bought a design your own puzzle for TWO dollars. What did I do with this? I wrote a letter and sent it off to a loved on. BRILLIANT. Excited to see how this place develops :). read more

This review is purely for the Friday Night Magic aspect of Labyrinth. For all matters pertaining to product variety, selection, and the staff's knowledge of games to help select something appropriate, this store gets a 5 star rating. However, when it comes to Friday Night Magic (FNM), the expectations are not 5 star worthy. If you choose to go to FNM, there are a few of things to be wary about. The biggest issue is that the store caps out at 24 players for FNM, which is what I would agree is a safe number of people playing in their store. The problem with this limitation is that the store frequently sells out of seats long before the start time of the event, sometimes as early as 5PM. While I understand that there's no guarantee for anyone to ever be granted a limited service, for anyone that works a 9-5, it is nearly impossible to get to the store early enough before the event is sold out, not to mention the travel cost to get to and from the store. This problem is largely a foregone concession for the store's employees and owner, who, while very nice and courteous about the situation, offer no solution other than trying to get there earlier. The other solution that has been given to me is to go to a nearby restaurant to play. Neither of these solutions are really solutions for an individual who wants to patronize a local gaming store, but isn't given the opportunity to do so. While I would recommend that the store take down names of individuals and guarantee them spots in the following week's FNM (offer expiring 15 mins before the event start time), I don't see the overall problem resolving itself until either the demand for FNM drops (unlikely) or the store obtains additional space (which is more unlikely). read more

First of all -- it's a good game store. It's much better to buy your games at a local store, rather than at impersonal, Orwellian, soul-deadening, corporate Amazon or the like. The staff seem to struggle to be friendly, or cordial. As I browse through the store, I feel like a slightly unwelcome guest. I review myself -- have I bathed? Properly dressed? What is my own attitude like -- am I doing something to invite disapproval? But I think I have been nothing but meek and well-mannered. This is a good store, and I hope it prospers and continues. If you are local to the DC Metro area, you should visit this place. Enjoy. read more

If I could give this place 10 * I would! OH and if Miami had something like this I would live in there!!!!! We stumbled into this place by pure luck and I fell in love with it. The staff was just super nice and they def knew their product real well. They carry everything from puzzles, to outdoor games, cards..for young and old! At the back they have tables for people to sit and play, and I was listening to how they also offer a game night and how so many people show up that they don't have enough space. How awesome is that!!!! Ended up buying a foodie trivia game and a 1,000 piece puzzle-- did not have more space in my luggage for more-- waaaa... Rock on DC with this little gem. Pls check it out. read more

Love this store! I live in Ohio so I've only been here twice. Both times, I've picked up games I didn't previously know about. The first time we visited, I was delighted to be able to touch, play with, try out some of the kid games I was interested in buying for my nephew. That's a huge perk in this store. I love games, small businesses and a good dose of no tech so for me labyrinth is awesome! read more

True story: The last time I played an RPG I was brought to tears over the stress. My dundering brain just cannot handle that kind of rapid-fire creative thinking and weapon-brandishing. But I can raise a farm in Agricola like nobody's business. Labyrinth has something for all analog gamers. The focus is on multi-player board and card games, mostly grounded in science fiction and fantasy. Some people might classify the clientele and staff as (eek!) NERDS. However, they're incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, and having way more fun than you. Recommendations here are informed and spot-on. Sadly, Cards Against Humanity is not sold here. But Adventure Time Mad-Libs IS. Prices are higher than at online retailers, but you're here for the personalized service, curated selection, and to talk shop with fellow Level 5 Thaumaturgists right? Right. read more

Labyrinth Games has turned out to be a real gem on Capitol Hill. There's something for everyone here - traditional board games, dice games, puzzles, RPGs, strategy. The owner (Kathleen?) is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about everything for sale in the shop - although I haven't played a serious tabletop RPG in years, she was happy to take the time to discuss the state of newer products and compare some of the smaller game systems I'd never encountered elsewhere. That's another plus for Labyrinth - there is a good mix of familiar and boutique on display. The shop itself is very well lit and inviting. There are spaces for game sessions in the back, and the staff will let you know about scheduled opportunities to play the games with other customers. The overall vibe is really positive - the sense of community participation evident in the scheduled events and busy notice board in the back makes Labyrinth stand out. read more

Amazing game store. My son loves magic the gathering so we always try to find a game store when we travel. We are used to dingy, quirky, sometimes sad looking places. Wow, that was NOT how I would describe labyrinth! From the moment we walked in, the staff was friendly and helpful. We happened in on a Thursday night game night and had a blast. We learned some cool games, never any pressure to buy, but we did anyhow! I wish there were a store like this near my home, if so game night Thursday would always be on my agenda. read more

What an a -maze-ing little store! Did I just go there with the lame corniness? Yes. I. Did. I walked in out of sheer curiosity - not having bookmarked it, or even knowing what to expect. The man who assisted me in selecting an educational game for a gift was beyond helpful. He had a lot of insight as to which new games were more appropriate for certain age groups/levels of aptitude. Labyrinth has a pretty big selection of games, puzzles, & toys for both adults and children. Their wooden chess sets (& other games) are beautiful. Good service, great products, & okay pricing. I'll definitely be a repeat customer! *They'll gift wrap your item if you like... always a nice touch.* read more

Incredible friendly and helpful staff. It can be intimidating walking into a game store and not know what's what and just seeing the floor to ceiling shelves of games. The staff are always roaming around and asking if you need help. You can describe what setting your game will be played in (serious game night, family game night, party games, etc), how many people, what game elements you like, etc. From there they are great at making recommendations. They have geeky games, kids games, family board games, puzzles of all sorts, card games, RPGs, etc - basically any kind of brain-building entertainment you could want. The store seems small but they pack a lot of variety in. I would definitely recommend Labyrinth for game enthusiast of all ages and comfort-levels. read more

Great game store with a very friendly staff. I went to the store on Christmas Eve Day when I was visiting my wife's family for the holidays. As one might imagine, it was somewhat crowded and the clientele were largely people looking for a last minute gift either for a child or a teen/adult who is "into games." Given that the store largely stocks indie and Euro games, the staff did a great job of trying to work with these customers to help them pick out what might be a good gift. When I had a few questions and it was clear that I'm into board games, they happily chatted with me about what they liked and had pretty in-depth discussions about game mechanics. When someone not as familiar with board games asked them to help find a gift, the easily switched gears and helped the customers without overloading them with gaming jargon and references. The selection was good, I picked up a few games by local companies that my friends back home hadn't heard of. Will definitely return next time I am in town. read more

Last night, I went to labyrinth for game night, and we found a bunch of gamers sharing their love for games. I sat down with my friend Annette, and we joined a couple of people playing a board game called Puerto Rico. Now most people would give up playing a game before learning the rules, but we persevered and the game was super fun!! I won, but everyone had fun at labyrinth, so everyone is a winner. Now I bought a deck of playing cards for $4, and it was worth getting a souvenir of Washington's scenic points. I also solved the riddles on the sandwich board outside and got a prize. Friendly store, friendly staff, five stars! read more

Labyrinth Games & Puzzles - Riddle - Hobby Shops Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Labyrinth was my home away from home for a few years. If I still lived in the DC area, I'd go there every week. Instead I just make it a point to shop there whenever we are passing through. It is a wonderful place for casual buyers, seasoned hobbyists, and everyone in between. If you're just starting in the hobby, or are just looking for a gift for a child that the other Capitol Hill parent's haven't already bought, this store is for you. The staff is warm and friendly, and they will give you useful advice tailored to your knowledge and interest level. For the seasoned hobbyist, Labyrinth is a retail revelation. We've all been to countless stores that served as, and looked like, an extension of the owner's game closet. Labyrinth, by comparison, is clean, well lit, and has an attractive layout. The staff knows what they're talking about, is there to help you and run game demonstrations. The owner, Kathleen, is a good person, excellent business woman, and pillar of the community. I've been to a lot of good game stores; Labyrinth is my standard for a great store. read more

This is a great store to browse in. We were trying to waste some time, and this is just the place to do it. The staff was super friendly and knowledgable regarding any of our questions. They have a wide selection of games you can play in the back with several tables. I would guess that they host tournaments here sometimes. I saw games here that I have never seen before. It was almost like a learning experience in and of itself. I did take away one star because the prices are not cheap. I liked looking around, but if I saw something I liked, I would probably just find it on Amazon for cheaper. read more

I was at a loss for words when I came to this place for the first time. Whether you're a Magic the Gathering wonk, a casual Settler of Catan, or just looking to play an afternoon game of apples to apples, this is the place to go. This place caters to everyone with any interests from puzzles, to card games, to board games, to RPG's. Not only that, but the staff is knowledgeable on just about every piece of product they have. I stumbled upon this place once with some friends. We stopped in to try out a game we had heard about (Small World) and we were hooked. Their open box policy is honestly genius. I have never been in the place and seen it void of customers. The best part? Board games can be expensive, so If there is a game you wanted to try out with some friends but not necessarily commit to the $50 or so investment, Labyrinth has is in the back for you to take out and play! This place is family friendly so don't expect to find sex dice or cards against humanity and be sure to call ahead if you intend on playing some games with friends. This is a hot spot for children's birthdays. Countless hours of fun are to be had here. Food and drink is allowed, but they have a strict "spill it you buy it" policy to treat their games with care! read more

This store was clean and well organized and at the time I was there, filled with happy customers. I loved listening to a group of kids learning how to play D&D in the back with a very excited DM. At one point I heard him say "That's the second time you've stepped on my foot good sir, either you're doing it on purpose or you're the clumsiest knight I've ever encountered!" which of course lead to an uproar of laughter from the kids. Great selection, friendly staff and overall great experience. I'll definitely be back! read more

Very unique and expansive selection of board, puzzle, and other traditional games. Staff is extremely enthusiastic and helpful in assisting you to find your perfect game. Great atmosphere and shopping experience. read more

Labyrinth Games & Puzzles - Hobby Shops Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This store is totally awesome. I try and make a stop here each time I'm visiting DC. The staff here is super knowledgeable and friendly. The shop has all kinds of games, from traditional board games, to kids games, card games, and the latest resource management games. The also have puzzles and unique gifts for any gamer you know. I love checking out the newest expansion packs for my favorite games. Bottom Line: Sure, you could save a few bucks by buying your game online. But the personal service you get here makes buying the game that much more exciting and worthwhile. read more

How in the world have I not reviewed Labyrinth yet? A board gamer's paradise. This store is a true pillar of the gaming community in DC, and is doing the important work of making board games accessible to everyone. The store itself is well-stocked, with walls of board games, children's games, role-playing games, collectible card games, and accessories for sale. The staff is always quick to help you find something or recommend a game to take home. The back area hosts events or is always open for gaming if you'd like to try before you buy. For the social board gamer, every Thursday is open gaming night where you can come and play any of Labyrinth's games for free. Every Sunday, Labyrinth takes over a local bar and hosts Boozy Board Game Night, bringing their own staff and games for adults to play over some beers. In both cases, Labyrinth's staff shines, and they are largely the reasons these are the best board game meetups in the DMV area. Gamers and game meetups have a reputation for being unwelcoming and a single demographic. It's the exact opposite at Labyrinth. A diverse crowd enjoys all sorts of games, and if a new person/couple/group comes and doesn't know what to play or doesn't know anyone, Labyrinth staff is on hand to pair them up with others looking for games or to select a game and explain the rules. As a result, everyone who comes is super friendly and some of the antisocial behavior that pervades a stereotypical "gamer group" is banished. When people talk about a business that is worth a couple extra dollars to support rather than taking the easy way out and buying from Amazon, this is it. This is what you get when you support a local business. You get great staff, great events, and a place to play whenever you like. You are assured you won't get a counterfeit product like those that are sweeping through the board game world. Support your friendly local game store! read more

Labyrinth is ridiculously adorable! Walking in, you feel transported to... game heaven? They offer beautiful wooden puzzles, brainteasers, and an amazing selection of board games. This is not like the games aisle in Target. It's supremely better. I bought a fabric jigsaw puzzle, in which all the pieces are connected, so they can't be lost - perfect for a toddler. I spotted a colorful jigsaw puzzle of shiny beetles that I'll definitely be back to purchase. Labyrinth makes me want to organize my own game night. Seriously. read more

A great local board game store with solid selection, great advice on what games to pick up, and recurring events in the back of the store.

This is a superb hobby/games store with tons of board games and card gaming supplies stocked full on all the shelves. I only come to play magic the gathering. The only downside is that it can get crowded on friday nights. The staff is always friendly and willing to help you with game recommendations. read more

Up until now, I thought I had to schlep outside the beltway to get a gaming fix. Not true -- Labyrinth fills a DC void, and does it with flying colors. I checked this place out for an event on Saturday, and I couldn't be happier with it. As the old adage goes, game stores are usually plagued by disengaged staff, and unwelcoming to casual gamers. Labyrinth is the exact opposite. The fact that this place is in a great neighborhood that is metro accessible is icing on the cake. The great reviews this store gets are well deserved. Check out their website for the events calendar and come over to check it out. I'm glad I did. read more

This place is awesome. Every employee is so friendly and knowledgeable! They have weekly open game nights, as well as countless tournaments and special events for specific games. We've purchased several games for ourselves and as gifts, but it is also just a cool store to browse and hang out. read more

This is absolutely the best game store I've ever frequented.

I Labryinth has saved the day for me countless times. Everyone in this store is magical

Labyrinth is great! Other reviews are spot-on: they have the best staff who are very friendly and knowledgeable about the products, the prices are perfectly reasonable for an independent store, and the selection of high-quality games is outstanding. They really do have a game for everyone. But they are also one of the only places in DC that carry Magic: The Gathering cards. They usually have at least three sets represented as well as preconstructed products and card covers. They offer discounts on MTG boxes also. I love this place. read more

A whole store full of games! Pure fun. Every time I come in, the staff woman asks if I want help. Then, she gives me detailed, patient, useful help--describing how to play any game I ask her about; and giving personalized gift suggestions for my family members when I tell her what types of games they like. She seems to have played all the games herself at some point. Also, this is biased, but I like that she's vegan! Games for every age and every type of person. I hope to make it to one of Labyrinth Games's free game nights! read more

The staff is extremely friendly and welcoming and super helpful. They also offer free gift wrapping, and special events all the time. Its also conveniently located off of the Eastern market metro station which is super helpful. 10000% would recommend. read more

I just want to say that Labyrinth is completely amazing!!! Tonight is the launch tournament for a new Magic the Gathering set and spots filled up super quick!! So I put my self on the wait list hoping to be able to go. Then I get an email letting me know that they are able to accommodate more players by moving stuff around in the store!! I have Never been to a card / board game shop that would have done this before. I also never would have been able to get a Modern Masters box either at retail price!! You guys will always be #1 in my book! :D Oh and for FNM (Friday Night Magic) they now use a reservation system and it usually goes up a few days in advance. They also clearly say when the next reservation is coming up on there Facebook page as well! I love this system now since it gives everyone a fair chance of going to FNM! :D read more

I've been going to Labyrinth for years. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, their selection is excellent. They have a huge collection of demo copies of their games, so if you're not sure about a purchase you can often play it before deciding. If they don't have the game you're looking for, they'll generally order it for you and slap a discount on. Beyond being an excellent retail store, the owner is passionate about community involvement, working with a dozen neighboring elementary and middle schools with a program designed to develop social and cognitive skills through board games. I live out in Frederick, MD, more than an hour away, there are at least 4 or 5 similar stores much closer to me. I pass them by to make a trip out to Labyrinth every chance I get. read more

Never mind the fact that this is a woman-owned gaming shop (which I love) but the place is clean, bright, and inviting. Having spent more time in Northern Virginia, surrounded by the likes of "Game Parlour" it's nice to walk into a place with helpful, non-pretentious, staff that doesn't smell like arm pits and puberty. Labyrinth has a great selection of games for the avid fangirl/boy- reasonably priced die and D&D materials will have you coming back or more. Rent a table and experience being able to eat and game in peace- even with the cute little boy running about. The enthusiasm of this place is contagious! read more

It is a shock to me that it took DC this long to get a decent games shop - and one owned locally to boot! For a city built on the blood, sweat, and tears of nerds and wonks, it is a genuine surprise. The store itself is fantastic. Its helpful, friendly, and personable staff genuinely love games, and that love is obvious from the moment you walk in. Selection is everything from classy, carved wood puzzles and chess sets to the kinds of games you might buy for an elementary school student to learn their letters. read more