When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Common Ground Games
Why Common Ground Games is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Common Ground Games is a premier retail and gaming space located in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, known for offering an inviting environment where friends and families can gather to enjoy a wide variety of board games. Established in 2013 by Jamison Sacks and DR Hanson, this business goes beyond simply selling games; it serves as a vibrant community hub dedicated to connecting people through shared gaming experiences. Common Ground Games provides extensive demo areas where visitors can try out games before purchasing, catering to gamers of all kinds—from casual players to strategy enthusiasts. Their spacious, welcoming venue supports both public and private gaming events, making it an ideal meetup spot for socializing, discovering new games, and building friendships. The store fosters an inclusive, safe, and brave space for people of all ages to thrive and share their passion for gaming, underpinned by their core values symbolized by the acronym MEEPLES (Mindfulness, Equity, Ever Evolving, Pride, Listening, Efficiency, Support). With a reputation for excellent customer service and a carefully curated inventory, Common Ground Games creates a unique common ground where communities come together over their love of games.
Here's what people think of Common Ground Games
As of recent, Common Ground Games holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1253 reviews.
Overall, reviews for Common Ground Games highlight a strong positive reception from its customer base, reflected in its high average rating of 4.7 from over 1,250 reviewers. Users frequently commend the staff for being friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, which greatly enhances the shopping and gaming experience. Positive feedback often mentions the availability of game demos, the welcoming atmosphere, and the store's commitment to community building, all of which make it an appealing place to meet friends and engage in social activities. Many appreciate the store’s broad selection of games and the thoughtful environment that encourages both new and experienced players. On the other hand, negative reviews, while minimal, sometimes cite occasional issues such as limited parking or waiting times during busy periods. A few customers have wished for an even larger variety of certain niche games or expansions. Despite these minor concerns, the overall sentiment remains strongly favorable. The unanimous praise for the staff and the unique, community-oriented approach of the store underscores its success as more than just a retail space but as a beloved gaming sanctuary. In summary, the reviews paint Common Ground Games as a top-tier destination for board game lovers looking for quality products, great service, and a lively social setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Juan Irizarry
Love coming here to check their board games. This place is very welcoming to everyone whether they are young or old. They host many tournaments and competitions, you can also come here with friends and play boardgames free of charge. They sell many games and have the latest stuff. They have a huge selection available. I definitely recommend this place. Bring your friends with you, you'll have a great time.
N “Nick” K
Friendliest staff I have ever interacted with at a game shop. I live about 25 minutes away but will visit this store exclusively. Take note that they do have daily limits on tcg purchases but i see that as a positive.
Tristan Martinez
This store was recommended by a student of mine, and I cannot say great enough things about this place. We stopped in just to scope the place out, were greeted, and after a while were approached by Elijah, asking if we needed help. After asking about our interests, he matched us to some board games, making suggestions along the way. In about 10 minutes, we had 8ish recommendations that fit what we wanted and needed in a board game. This place is BIG. Everything is neat and tidy. Take your time looking around and you're sure to find gems. They have a discord too, so you can stay in the know on their latest events. We were told that every Thursday they demo board games, and if you buy the board game being demoed that night, you get 10% off. Also, if you're looking for Pokemon card singles, they have them! They have kiosks (computers) to the left of the double doors that you can order from their catalog. While we didn't buy anything on our first visit, we will certainly be coming back! Thank you for providing such great service :)
Billy (OverlandGeek)
Great place! I’m not from the area, but I stopped by while searching for comic book and collectible shops just to see what this spot was all about. Even though I don’t usually play large board games, the vibe here really made me want to get into it. The staff was super cool, and there was a solid crowd playing MtG (I think?) when I visited. Definitely a place worth checking out! Totally worth the stop.
Matt Drake
I don't live in Dallas anymore and every game store I visit in my new town makes me miss Common Ground. This is an amazing game store. An amazing selection of games, magnificent game library, and a welcoming atmosphere. Loads of minis and RPG books, and just tons of fun stuff. Sometimes there are incredible deals in the clearance section, too. It's like a dopamine hit disguised as a strip mall. And the staff are great! They've always been super helpful and friendly, and even taken time out to help me find some silly obscure widget I want. Really miss you guys
How to reach Common Ground Games
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Why Common Ground Games may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Common Ground Games with your friends creates an unforgettable gathering spot that perfectly blends fun, strategy, and social interaction. Whether you and your group are hardcore gamers or casual enthusiasts, this venue offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites everyone to relax and connect over shared passions. The appeal lies not only in the extensive range of board and card games but also in the comfortable space designed to foster laughter, friendly competition, and teamwork. It’s a place where everyone—from long-time hobbyists to newcomers—can feel included and engaged. Common Ground Games stands out as more than just a game store; it’s a vibrant community hub where friendships are forged and memories are made. Meeting here guarantees an experience rich with entertainment and camaraderie, making it an ideal destination for friends and families looking to spend quality time together.
What types of activities can I enjoy at Common Ground Games?
Common Ground Games offers an impressive variety of activities that cater to all kinds of players. Primarily, the venue features a vast library of board games spanning every genre imaginable—from classic strategy games and cooperative adventures to light party games and complex role-playing formats. This variety ensures that no matter your group size or interests, you can find a game that suits your mood and skill level. In addition to board games, there is a strong focus on collectible card games (CCGs) and trading card games (TCGs), including popular titles like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon. The venue also hosts regular tournaments and gaming events which provide competitive play along with a social setting. If you want a more casual experience, the onsite café allows you to enjoy drinks and snacks while strategizing or simply chatting between turns. This blend of games and cafe culture makes Common Ground Games perfect for day-long meetups filled with fun and interaction.
Why is Common Ground Games perfect for group meetups?
Common Ground Games excels as a meetup place because its environment is carefully designed to support groups of all sizes. The seating arrangements are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate parties from small groups of friends to larger family reunions, ensuring everyone has a good view and ample room for gameplay. The staff is known for being knowledgeable and approachable, helping groups select games that match the interests and experience levels of participants, which is especially useful if some members are new to gaming. Moreover, the venue’s inclusive atmosphere encourages a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it easy for groups to bond and unwind. Having an onsite café means you don’t have to interrupt your meetup for food, allowing your group to stay focused on the fun. All these factors combine to create a social space that fosters connection and memorable shared experiences, which is exactly what you want when you host a gathering with friends or family.
How does Common Ground Games support both new and experienced gamers?
One of the highlights of Common Ground Games is its dedication to serving both newcomers and seasoned players. For beginners, the staff provides explanations, recommendations, and even mini-tutorials for games, ensuring no one feels lost or overwhelmed. This personalized attention helps ease the learning curve and builds confidence. Experienced gamers benefit from the wide selection of advanced and niche games, as well as the frequent organized tournaments that challenge their skills and provide competitive excitement. The venue also fosters a community spirit where players exchange strategies and tips, enriching the overall experience. This inclusive approach means the environment is always welcoming, encouraging groups with mixed experience levels to enjoy their time together fully without anyone feeling left out or bored.
What kind of atmosphere can I expect at Common Ground Games?
The atmosphere at Common Ground Games is intentionally casual, lively, and engaging, making it an ideal place for social gatherings. The décor and layout emphasize comfort, with cozy seating and ample table space designed to accommodate the dynamic nature of board and card games. The noise level typically reflects the excitement of ongoing gameplay and friendly banter, creating a vibrant buzz that adds to the fun without being overwhelming. The onsite café contributes to this relaxed vibe by offering a selection of drinks and light refreshments, encouraging guests to linger and socialize between games. This mix of entertainment, community, and comfort cultivates a positive environment that feels like a shared living room for gamers, perfect for building connections among friends and family in a welcoming setting.
What makes Common Ground Games stand out compared to other gaming venues?
Common Ground Games distinguishes itself through its exceptional combination of broad game selection, quality customer service, and a community-focused approach. Unlike venues that focus solely on retail or digital gaming, this business emphasizes face-to-face interaction through physical games and in-person events. Their curated stock ensures you can find both popular and lesser-known games, which caters to diverse tastes and keeps every visit fresh and exciting. The staff’s expertise and friendliness enhance the experience, offering a level of personalized support that transforms a simple visit into a unique social adventure. Additionally, the venue’s commitment to building a local gaming community through tournaments, meetups, and membership programs creates a sense of belonging and continuity. These factors have earned Common Ground Games a remarkable 4.7-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, underscoring its reputation as a trusted and beloved destination for group entertainment.
Can I host private events or parties at Common Ground Games?
Yes, Common Ground Games provides options for private events and room rentals, making it an excellent choice for hosting birthday parties, corporate team-building exercises, or special interest meetups. Their spaces are versatile and equipped to support a wide range of group sizes and formats, from intimate game nights to larger celebrations. The venue’s staff assist with planning and setup to ensure events run smoothly, and they can offer customized game suggestions tailored to your group’s preferences. Catering needs can be met through the café’s menu, adding convenience for organizers and guests alike. Hosting your special occasion at Common Ground Games guarantees a memorable event filled with interactive fun, friendly competition, and opportunities for meaningful social interaction that traditional venues might not offer.
Why do customers consistently rate Common Ground Games highly?
Customers consistently praise Common Ground Games for its outstanding customer experience, game variety, and welcoming ambiance. Reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, noting how their enthusiasm and knowledge enrich the visit. Visitors appreciate the venue’s effort to maintain a spacious and clean environment where people feel comfortable spending hours playing. Customers across multiple platforms commend the café’s offerings and the accessibility of new and popular games. The positive atmosphere combined with value for money is a common theme in these reviews, solidifying Common Ground Games’ status as a community favorite. This consistent recognition is reflected in its high 4.7-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, making it one of the top-rated gaming venues in the area.
In summary, Common Ground Games offers a dynamic and inviting space perfect for rallying your friends or family around shared interests in gaming. Its extensive game options, friendly atmosphere, expert staff, and flexible event hosting make it the ideal destination for socializing, competing, and creating lasting memories. If you’re looking for a place where gaming meets community, this venue stands out as a premier choice.