My husband and I went into Throwback on a whim one day and we haven't gone to another game store since. We specifically collect Pokémon cards, but they have lot of other really nice and tested items in the store as well. They're Pokémon card prices are insanely low compared to big box stores like Walmart, Target and GameStop. The guys in there are extremely knowledgeable, and go above and beyond to help every customer. Manny, Jesse and Daniel are who we interact with the most. But all the guys in there do an amazing job at knowing the inventory, interacting with each customer, and creating a welcoming environment. I believe it was our second or third time in the store and they already knew us by name. I can't put into words how much we love this small business. Manny is constantly doing things to help the community, or bring in really cool people that are popular to the gaming community. Owning a small business in this day and age is extremely difficult and it's so refreshing to see one that is focused on helping the community as well as working to be successful. Also a dog friendly place so my 2 doggos are always excited when they get to go in and say hi!! read more

FIVE STARS!! This place takes me right back to my childhood and has all the features that a legit video game shop should have: Old Games, New Games, Consoles, Toys, Awesome Collectibles, and a Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff! I've bought games here. Got some Dragon Ball Z Energy Drinks. Bought my brother some "Duff Beer". And, when I can finally accept adulthood, I plan on selling my Nintendo/Sega classics here. Do yourself a favor and check this place out! Right off Coast Highway and Vista Way in Oceanside - You won't be disappointed! read more

This is the only place you need to geek out in general I swear everyone and everything so awesome here Manny is the fucking man and the pokemon boxes i get are always hitters read more

Always friendly and gives good deals on trade ins. Alot of retro inventory to choose from. Also gives %10 off for veterans. One of my favorite places. read more

Super friendly staff and they have an amazing collection of games going back to the NES and current generation of games and consoles, they also provide a 7day policy in case anything goes wrong or you just want to return your game, I'll always support small businesses like this because GameStop is horrible when it's comes to being a "video game store" and retro gaming is a dying breed that must be protected and cherished. read more

This place is awesome. I've been there several times to get games for my xbox360 and other consoles/devices. I first saw their storefront while driving one day and decided to stop by. Their big red folding chair out front is pretty iconic. The employees have always been helpful and friendly, and their inventory is impressive... I've been able to find 100% of the titles I wanted in stock so far. The owner of the store (Manny, if I recall correctly) is a really nice, down to earth guy. Other than the reliable service and cool merch they have, one thing I like about getting my games here is that I know I'm supporting a small business. There's more of a human element to this place that I just haven't experienced while buying games at other chain stores. So if you're in the Oceanside area wanting games, check out Throwback gamez and support a local business. Way better than gamestop, in my opinion. read more

11/10 must try again! The store clerks are very helpful when it comes to questions, the store is organized, and last of all, they had pokemon indigo league playing! They also have garbage pail kids and Pokémon booster packs! Show them some love! read more

Throwback Gamez - Awesome! - Video Game Stores Near Me - Oceanside, California

I found these guys about 2 weeks ago and let me tell you, I'm beyond impressed. They had so many hidden gems and all at a beyond reasonable price! Before I left, they had me make a "wishlist" of all the games/series I collect. Today, Jessie and Daniel called me to let me know an item on my wishlist came through the door! I have never received this kind of service from a video game shop (and I've been to a lot). I was completely blown away. The Owner, Manny, has put together an incredible team and should be proud. These individuals are committed to customer service and establishing great relationships. If you are looking to collect games, or just want great conversations, look no further! Thank you so much! read more

Very impressed with this store! So well organized, kind and helpful staff (who were patient with my 9-yr-old who called and asked lots of questions), and a great selection. We've been to a few others looking for some random things my son wanted (his Xmas $), and this was by far our favorite place. It was so much cleaner and better organized than any place we visited. We also love that it's a locally owned, small business. read more

Throwback Gamez - My 9-yr-old declared Throwback his FAVORITE game store. Here he is with his Nintendo 2DS XL that he got there today. - Video Game Stores Near Me - Oceanside, California

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First came to Throwback a year ago when I needed my old NES console fixed up. No other game stores around were willing to help out. Manny did a great job of cleaning the console and putting in new pins to get the system up and running again. The price was fair and reasonable for the work performed and he had it back to me within 24 hours. Since then, I've been coming to Throwback to help support their small business and buy games for my console. The vibe in the store is great and everyone working there is willing to help. All of their staff is super friendly and outgoing. They have a great selection of games for all consoles and they make sure their customers walk away satisfied. Prices for games are fair and competitive. Whenever I buy a game they always mention that I can bring it back if for some reason it's not working - no questions asked. Really great customer service. Would definitely recommend joining their loyalty program if you plan to trade games in or buy games over time. Totally worth it. They also take care of their loyalists with special promotions and keep track of their purchases in case they get trade-ins that match your buying history. Really cool program. Give them a shot. You won't be disappointed. read more

We love Throwback Gamez! The staff are always very helpful and friendly. They offer some really neat refurbished systems and game cartridges. They also offer a decent selection of Pokemon cards (that's what brought us there in the first place). My son bought a GameBoy Color unit and a couple games from them. When he had trouble with the unit, he brought it back, and Genevieve helped quickly resolve the issue. This is a neat shop to visit! read more

Had the PSP Gen 1 parts I needed and vendor confidently knew about the system. Would recommend.

This place is amazing! The staff is so helpful and kind! Jenn always greets us with a friendly smile and always willing to help us with our game search! Highly recommend this business if you are looking for some fun games and ones that will bring back old childhood memories. read more

Son loves video games so the first place I thought of even though I live many miles away is Throwback Gamez. Like many, I buy from people I like. The owner is super cool. Store has a wide variety of options at awesome pricing. I recommend this location!!! read more

Amazing Place, very kind owners. This place is clean and tons of selection. Brings back so many memories as a kid. Very reasonable prices. Support local business like this because they are rare. Was my first time in today and I will be back! Thanks! read more

Absolutely amazing place. Extremely friendly staff who have so much knowledge on games and they have a huge selection plus great prices. I only ever go here for all my game systems. read more

I recently went to check out the new location at the Shoppes at Carlsbad. Their shop definitely stood out from the rest thanks to its huge banners and neon signs. I could tell the team put a lot of work into making the space look nice and while their inventory wasn't as big as their main location, I know they will only have more to offer as time goes on. It seems like a lot of vendor spaces at the Ninja XChange are constantly evolving. I also want to thank Jesse for helping me out at the Ninja XChange location and telling me about a 15% off deal for the items I bought. read more

If you're nostalgic for any type of video games, this is your one stop shop for an amazing variety on every platform! Not to mention their Pokémon selection is like no other. Manny the owner takes great care of the store and is constantly running great promotions for gamers to expand there collection. read more

He sold me 4 games 3 didn't work and system fan is super loud when running make sure u check what ever u got from this place. All he is going to do is clean the system out. Nothing for the trouble I'm having with his store do not come here. I repeat he will just take ur money cause u a headache read more

THIS. PLACE. IS. AWESOME!!! Walked in today on the advice of GameStop to look for old Wii games. They had everything you could possibly need! Got original Xbox games, a few Wii games, and will be back to restock my GameCube game selection. The prices are outstanding, the selection is huge, I'm so happy to have found this little gem. Definitely recommend for all your old school and used game needs. They've got it all from cords, cables, and controllers to games, funko pop, board games, and consoles. Can't wait to go back and blow through a paycheck on some serious nostalgia. Great store, really polite and helpful staff, can't say enough good things about this spot. Thank you, TG, for helping me make my son the happiest graduate in north county!! read more

This is the best retro video game store in San Diego County! You are always greeted by the owner Manny when you enter and the store is not only laid out very nicely, it is extremely clean as well! Super easy to find the titles that you are looking to add to your collection! I highly recommend this store to anyone looking to add to their video game collection, trade in games you no longer want or to rebuild the collection you had as a kid. Thank you Manny and Leslie! read more

Friendly staff, amazing deals, and unique finds !! Totally obsessed with this place me I will definitely be coming back!! Y'all are the best

As a long time gamer and collector , when I first stepped into this retro store back in 2020, I fell in love with it, as oldies are hard to find now days at good prices , and this store had it right and had everything. Key word : "HAD". This store still good, but not what it once was. Although I'm happy stores like this are expanding as it opened in another location, this business can't even be considered as Quality over quantity. It has less in quantity and lacks in quality. I recently went back to trade some oldies stuff, and I understand small business are different from corporations, and for that same reason , these business have to make sure they appeal their costumers. The owners customer service is beyond excellent, but at one point I was sure he thought we were dumb for receiving Pennies for a small trade bundle. Finally, after going through every console's catalog, there was nothing "I" could find that thought was worth my money. After checking the ps4/5 section, I noticed some games that you could find on GAMESTOP, were more overpriced than a corporation!. How can you sell a $20 on GameStop for $30-40 bucks?. Don't you want people to help family business ? We understand the gaming hobby is an expensive one, but if you want support from the community , you gotta be fair and be current with me market. In conclusion, I wouldn't "STAY AWAY " from this store, but rather "BEWARE" of the prices. So make sure you look up prices and educate on the current market before spending hard working money in this economy. The store is still great, but make sure to check out others before you make a decision. P.S. I will go back in a few months not to buy anything , but to see if it has gotten better, or gotten worse. Thank you ! read more

I was looking for anything Pokemon for my grandson. This store was amazing, I got something that will make him so happy. I can't wait to bring my grandkids in and let them choose their own gifts. The nicest people work there/own it and answered all my questions patiently and kindly. My new fave place for gifts. read more

Great selection of games and great prices and service. Need a game or accessories check Throwback Gámez!

I've sold many consoles and games to this shop and they have given exactly what I wanted most of the time I love this store

Manny is hands down the friendliest and most helpful guy I've personally encountered involved in the retro gaming community here in North San Diego county. The place is organized and well kept, not to mention the price is just right on anything their wide selection offers. Manny is an honest guy who goes out of his way to give his customers the best experience possible! 5 Stars! read more

Great place probably the best gaming store in all of so cal! Drove an hour out & was not disappointed! A huge selection of retro with amazing prices! The owner was super chill, cracked some jokes, & gave amazing deals especially compared to other game stores! I'm a huge gaming collector & honestly out of all the game stores in so cal this one 100% takes the cake thank you again ps been enjoying Castlevania symphony of the night! Haha read more

My husband and I found this store and are now addicted! The owners and staff are super friendly and knowledgeable, their selection and prices are great! read more

This has to be the best retro gaming store ever the games they have the best deals all the games that I've bought from there work it's just the best come and check this store out read more

Our Airbnb had an Xbox 360 so I came here in hopes to find a game I could play for a couple nights and this place did not disappoint! I ended up snagging gears of war 3. So many games to look through that brought up great memories. Highly recommend! read more

Throwback is definitely the spot to go to for all your new school and old school gaming needs! Their wonderful staff is always a delight and ready to assist with any guest. Manny the owner is always willing to go the extra mile for his guest and has a deep passion for gaming culture. Highly recommended to anyone with anything gaming weather it be repairs, gaming apparel, strategy guides, or anything else in between! read more

Manny, the owner, is fantastic. I'm really glad I decided to give this "mom and pop" place a shot before a big box chain store. I had a malfunctioning Super Nintendo and wanted to new one. I was able to trade the old one in with some games and buy a working Super Nintendo with a 30 day warranty. I also picked up a used game for very cheap. I'll definitely be heading back here for all of my future used game purchases. read more

Amazing store! They literally have everything you could ask for. I went in to buy a console and Manny the owner was so welcoming and helpful. I also asked for a newer game, he did not have it in stock but ordered it for me. This is service! Was so amazing seeing all the older consoles that are in great shape with so many game options. Reminded me of when i got my first Atari. Love supporting small businesses and this my friends is a great business! read more

Awesome place!! Nowhere better to go to find great games, new and old, at a good price

Went in today so my kids could buy a Wii with their Christmas money. Unfortunately we took home the system and it wasn't working. We were able to go back and exchange the console for a working one. Was very pleased with the customer service. The employee took the time to test the console and the game to ensure they were working before we left. Thank you! read more

Great selecting of games old and new -- very fairly priced. I'm a collector and was happy to find a place I could walk into and see what I was purchasing instead of risking another bad experience online somewhere else. I had a great time talking games with Manny and grabbed some Sega Genesis, PS2 and N64 items. I'll definitely be back to support this small business and encourage anyone who is into retro gaming to do the same. read more

Throwback is the place to be for anyone interested in video games, especially those interested in older systems and titles! Great selection and fair prices that reflect the current market. Manny and his team are greatly knowledgeable of their products including how to care for them which super important for older products. I have had both my Gamecube and my Nintendo 64 repaired at Throwback Gamez and they work amazingly now! Thanks Manny! read more

Love this new store! Brand new owners... who are so nice and knowledgeable. They've remodeled the space, and it is nice and open, clean and filled with video games & accessories. I highly recommend a visit here for all of your video game needs! read more

Great shop with SO MUCH to look at and explore! Super friendly staff and super helpful! Kids were in HEAVEN!