Let's start with a side note-- this is my 100th Yelp review! How exciting! I wanted to save it for someplace that was unique and spoke to me. Well, this place fits the bill well. Now, onto the review... It's worth the long drive to Dekalb for a chance to stop into The Gaming Goat. A gem in the historic downtown area of Dekalb, this is a store you must check out when you're in the area. They stock a variety of fun, creative, unique, wacky and intelligent board games that you won't see in big chain stores. Seeing these games in person is a huge benefit to gamers, because you get a better feel for these independently produced games. The interior is pretty nice and there's plenty of space inside to browse or play, if you're there for an event. Besides the large stock of board games, they also offer a good number of events. What stood out to me when I was in there last was their Pokemon League. (They're big on Pokemon and even- at the time of this writing- let you pick a small Pokemon figure up free of charge if you check in to the shop and show them the offer. Sadly, I forgot to pick up my 'check in' Pokemon. Next time!) They also had a Family Game Night on their calendar-- If I lived closer, I would totally check it out! It seems like a great way to spend a few hours with the family. The Gaming Goat goes out of its way to make you feel appreciated, going so far as to have free water bottles out during large town events like Corn Fest. Going the extra mile like that definitely makes The Gaming Goat stand out among other gaming stores. If you're in the area, give this place a looksie! read more

The Gaming Goat - Interior - Hobby Shops Near Me - DeKalb, Illinois

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This store has always had a great selection of products including rarities that are in high demand.

This is local game and card shop in Dekalb, outside of Game stop and Graham Crackers. The Gaming Goat offers a wide selection of products, but seemed to cater most to Pokemon TCG and other card games. I am personally not into TCG, but was pleased to see their other Pokemon products. I believe they also offer a variety of TCG tournaments, for those who may be interested. The place was very well organized and intriguing to my boyfriend and I, gamers new to the area. I would suggest expanding selection to include more console video games as well to entice more customers. Service and atmosphere was very friendly and welcoming as well. Point off is due to limited selection of non TCG or board game products. After posting this review, I became aware Gaming Goat is active in the community and helps where they can. They run a Pokemon league at the local library, and played a big part in supporting a grieving family that lost their son (a former customer and fan). They are a great example of a local business trying to help better their community, and I wanted to note that in my review. read more

This place is a joke now. Over charging $100 over retail just because the items is in high demand. How can u over charge like that on the release date. I can see maybe if they stop making the cards but on released day. Never supporting this local business again. read more

Best game store in DeKalb. Not only are their prices lower than everyone else, but the staff serves you with a smiling face. Philip the owner also does a lot in the city of DeKalb to promote his business and help the town out in general. The Gaming Goat also hosts various events almost daily at there store that are available for any kind of gamer. If you like board games, card games, or video games I highly recommend the gaming goat for you! read more

This is a gem of of store in Dekalb! If your are looking for a game this is the place to go. They sell trading cards, board games and video games. We have gone in for kid games and their selection is fantastic. Unique games you won't find elsewhere. The staff is also fantastic. They are friendly and will always give great description and recommendations on games. They also have a lot of open games so if you want to try one out while you are there, you can. And their prices are hard to beat, they are lower than Target and Amazon on many games. Go check them out! read more

I think it's a great place to find a match for a few rounds, but their pricing system baffles me. I had brought in an Ib the world chalice justicar, the light generaider, boss stage, and multiple other cards with a price of around 60$ on TCGplayer. They tried giving me 14$. Theres a card shop up in Chicago ( Galaxy Comic Zone ) much better place for trading in cards, they give you promotional stuff too. read more

Had a great experience. My son (7 yrs old) wanted to learn how to play Pokémon card game so we went this Sunday. The staff were all very helpful, especially Emily who spent the better part of an hour helping my son and his friend learn the basics of the game. The store was almost completely filled with old and young gamers playing Pokémon and other card and dice based games. Great to see kids out of the house and unplugged!! Highly recommended!! read more

Fantastic game store to visit whether you're a new or experienced gamer. Even more than their great selection is their exceptional customer service. read more

The Gaming Goat is a great card shop for someone to come in and browse and ask questions if you are a game enthusiast. I am not, but Phil answers all my sons questions, and mine for buying gifts. His prices beat the big box stores and it is great to support a local business. My son has fun chatting with others that share his interest. They have scheduled tournaments to enjoy. The Gaming Goat is quite a find. read more