I’m not going to name anyone, but I once had a terrible trip to a gaming store. The shelves were a jumble of titles that felt more like a digital landfill than a curated collection.
And the prices? Insanely expensive compared to the market prices!
After an awkward encounter with a disinterested employee who seemed more focused on his phone than on helping me find a vintage Nintendo DS game, I left empty-handed. I felt like a player who just got hit with a game over.
I know I’m not the only gamer wanting to avoid overpriced games and poor customer service. To find better options, I’ve recruited the rest of the team to check out the several stores in the city.
If you want to level up your gaming experience, here are our recommendations of the best video games in Calgary.
How much does it cost to buy video games in Calgary?
It costs at least 20 CAD to buy a used video game in Calgary and at least 60 CAD for a new one. The final price will vary depending on the game type, the game platform, and the retailer.
Table of Contents
1. Video Game Trader
Address: 755 Lake Bonavista Dr SE unit 115
Contact details: +1 587-620-2406
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM
Video Game Trader is a must-visit for affordable retro and vintage games. You can shop online, but many take advantage of their free in-store pickup.
The store is plastered with collectibles galore and posters from every era, making the whole place a paradise that will make any gamer weak in the knees.
They have games for pretty much every console you can think of, like the Atari Family and the Nintendo Family. Plus, you can expect to snag vintage gems such as Colecovision and TurboGrafx-16 too.
In fact, their customers raved about their wide selections during our interviews. Many also loved the imported games for the Japanese consoles—a big win for collectors.
While browsing the aisles ourselves, we noticed how friendly the staff were. It seemed like they were ready with recommendations and fun facts about their games.
What’s more, there’s this cozy little lounge area where you can actually play some of the games they have in store. We spent a good chunk of time there, reliving our childhoods by playing some old-school Mario Kart.
However, if you plan on trading in games, they don’t always pay market value.
Some of the best pricing I’ve seen
“Traded in over 3k of games, consoles, and Japanese games. Some of the best pricing I’ve seen in Alberta for high quality and rare products. (I’m looking at you Shantae series and Harvest Moon SNES). Staff know a lot about games and are passionate about their games/media. They’re no a “no f around” type of store, making GameStop a thing of the past. I found some rare titles on my 4 trips here, like an amazing condition PokeCenter Pikachu GBA SP, Harvest Moon SNES, some Shantae games from Limited Run games. Finally got the last few games for my Dragon Quest collection, all CIB! 😀 The games and consoles bought here always seem to work, have been thoroughly cleaned and tested.”
– Fox Mori, Google Review
Incredible collection of titles
“Words cannot describe how lovely this store is, there’s an incredible collection of titles and hardware for cheap prices and are in great condition. The staff are very friendly and helpful, I didn’t expect such great service. I found exactly what I was looking for, and I even got a rewards card for points. I came to buy a game and an accessory, I came out the store very satisfied. I will definitely come visit again!”
– Hurrbet, Google Reviews
2. GameStop
Address: 6455 Macleod Trail
Contact details: +1 (403) 212-0213
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
GameStop has vibrant displays and posters of all the latest games and consoles. With its spacious layout, it’s nice to browse the selections without feeling cramped.
Speaking of selections, they have a solid range across all platforms. This includes Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, and even some PC options.
What’s more, they offer a decent array of merchandise, from collectibles to cool apparel. We even spotted some cool gaming accessories that we didn’t know we needed!
Moreover, the staff were knowledgeable and clearly passionate about gaming. One of the employees even took the time to help us with recommendations.
You could tell they genuinely wanted to ensure we found exactly what we were looking for.
Another highlight is their pre-owned games section with affordable prices. Aside from the sweet deals, it’s reassuring to know that these games come well-tested and cleaned.
To top it off, they even offer warranties!
However, their new game prices are a bit on the high side compared to some of the smaller shops we’ve visited.
I always find the best and most sought-after stuff here
“UPDATE: The busiest Gamestop in Canada, and it “
shows. The store is never empty anytime I drop by. Staff are awesome and very helpful with trying to secure your collectibles, etc. In fact, I came to this Gamestop because of Richard. He’s the best!
This is a fantastic Gamestop location! It is larger than average, so you don’t feel the overwhelming amount of stock inside the store.
Whether it is because gamestop prioritizes this location or my luck, I always find the best and most sought-after stuff here. This is where I managed to get a PS5 disc console, and we all know how hard that is. Staff are friendly and helpful when asked. I always felt welcomed here!”
– Victor Law, Google Reviews
Amazing store and large selection of video games
“Amazing store, large selection of video games and merchandise with great pricing, has an amazing membership card that’s more then worth it for regular shoppers. I always leave game stop happy when I make a purchase and even when I don’t make one it’s a good time taking a look around. Has great atmosphere, very open store in most areas and easy to navigate, the Funko pops are rather disorganised unfortunately but that’s about my only complaint.”
– Cabose, Google Reviews
3. Level Up
Address: 3512 17 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403-248-2287
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 6 PM
Level Up lets you trade in your old games and gear for something fresh. They’ve got everything from Wii games to the latest PS5 titles. They even have Blu-rays and DVDs.
In addition to their impressive selection, they offer disc repair for just $5 a pop. It’s perfect if you’ve got a scratched-up favourite lying around.
When we walked in, the staff made us feel right at home. Seriously, no one was pushing us to buy anything, which is a huge plus.
They have plenty of rare finds here, like old-school Nintendo DS games that many customers thought they’d never see again.
On the other hand, they also have a selection of consoles, like the PS4. However, the inventory is a bit limited.
While browsing, we noticed they sell a bunch of third-party items. Unfortunately, not everything is authentic, which could be a dealbreaker for some gamers.
Best video game store in Calgary
“This is by far the best video game store in the city of Calgary. You can go here and guarantee you’ll find something you will like or you will go there and find exactly what you’re looking for and a great price with knowledgable and friendly staff. Let level up be your Stress reliever this coming holiday or birthday.”
– Moonwalker Jackson, Google Reviews
Helped me find some games i’ve wanted that weren’t on the shelf yet
Picked up some PS3 games, Brendon is a very nice guy, and very helpful! He’s very knowledgeable and friendly! Even helped me find some games i’ve wanted that weren’t on the shelf yet!
– H A, Google Reviews
4. Gaming Lounge
Address: 260300 Writing Creek Cres
Contact details: +1 587-354-1777
Operating hours: Thursday to Sunday, Monday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Gaming Lounge is all about North American and Japanese imports. They’ve got everything from Atari to the latest consoles.
As soon as we walked in, we were greeted with rows and rows of games and systems. Right off the bat, we spotted some rare Japanese Nintendo titles that made our jaws drop.
Moving on to the consoles, they’ve got all the big players: Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox, and even some vintage Sega stuff. We were particularly eyeing their classic Sega Mega Drive!
Beyond the insane selection, you can also trade in your old games and consoles. They even offer a 30-day warranty on new items and 90 days on used games.
Despite the positives, we’ve heard complaints about shipping delays and slow customer service responses for online orders.
Exceptional service, fair prices, and a fantastic gaming experience
“They made sure we left happy. I wholeheartedly recommend The Gaming Lounge to anyone seeking exceptional service, fair prices, and a fantastic gaming experience. Thank you, Gaming Lounge team!”
– Bunkyballs, Google Reviews
From vintage Super Nintendos to Sega, you name it they probably have it.
“Great place to shop. Tons of selections of oldies but goodies. From vintage Super Nintendos to Sega, you name it they probably have it. I’ll be going back there now that I know where and how to find them in the New Horizon Mall. Thanks for the great experience! 👍👍”
– Malcolm Mcgann, Google Reviews
