When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Hawthorne Game Exchange
Why Hawthorne Game Exchange is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hawthorne Game Exchange, located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant destination for gamers of all kinds. This beloved video game store offers an impressive selection of both new releases and retro titles, making it a great place to meet up with friends who share a passion for gaming. The store’s unique appeal comes from its diverse inventory that includes everything from mainstream console games to rare import Japanese games and video game music vinyl records. Beyond just shopping, customers enjoy the tactile experience of browsing through extensive collections in-store, fostering a community atmosphere. Hawthorne Game Exchange also stands out by providing console repair services with quick turnaround times, allowing gamers to get back to playing their favorite titles swiftly. Additionally, its competitive trade-in program encourages customers to exchange games and refresh their collections affordably. The friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute significantly to the welcoming and enthusiastic vibe, making it an enjoyable space for both casual visitors and hardcore gamers. Situated near local favorites like an iconic ice cream shop on 36th and Hawthorne, the store is perfectly placed for a fun outing with friends that can easily incorporate gaming and socializing.
Here's what people think of Hawthorne Game Exchange
As of recent, Hawthorne Game Exchange holds a 4.6-star rating based on 504 reviews.
Customer reviews of Hawthorne Game Exchange highlight a largely positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.6 rating from over 500 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the store’s vast and diverse inventory, especially for retro games and rare finds that appeal to collectors and nostalgic gamers alike. Many positive reviews mention the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, noting that employees are passionate about gaming and eager to assist customers, which enhances the overall shopping experience. The option to physically browse the games before purchase is appreciated for providing a tactile and immersive experience often missed in digital shopping. On the services side, customers value the efficient console repair service and competitive trade-in rates, which add extra convenience and trustworthiness to the store. Negative feedback occasionally points to limited stock of certain popular titles or higher prices compared to online options; however, these criticisms are generally balanced by the personal touch and curated collection the store offers. Some users also wish for a stronger online presence, as browsing and purchasing remotely is currently limited. Overall, reviews paint Hawthorne Game Exchange as a community-centered, reliable, and enjoyable place for video game enthusiasts to gather, shop, and connect.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jose Guzman Arias
I recently purchased Chronotrigger from them. They had a very reasonable price for it, and they were very transparent with me authenticating the cartridge. I checked all the obvious spots I knew for authenticity. They opened the cartridge and showed me the board, and they replaced the battery even though they had it replaced initially when they took deliver of it, for my own peace of mind. They demoed the game and played through it a little bit to show the game. They are gamers themselves and understand how important it is to get the process right especially when your spending $200+ for a game. Great store, great staff, and it will it now be solidified as one of my regular stores.
PS Rewind
Very friendly staff and have a great selection of games across all generations of consoles. Prices are very reasonable.
Zoe Bennington
Such an awesome little game shop! Ive traded with them, and just the other day they gave me a discount on one of my dream collector pieces. Gotta check it out!
J B
Hawthorne Game Exchange is really an awesome video game store! I have lived in the Tabor area for a long time and was a patron at the previous business at this location CD/Game Xchange for years, they’re gone now and Hawthorne Game Exchange has opened with a focus on mainly video games! I’m talkin new games, old games, retro game cartridges, import Japanese games, controllers, used video game consoles, unique odds n ends and even video game music on vinyl records!! From the moment I walked into the store I had a BIG smile on my face seeing all the old school games I have all those golden memories of growing up and beyond. 🎮 I met a staff member Christina - she is totally awesome & very helpful! I can truly tell she’s passionate about gaming! She really made me feel welcome and was someone I could immediately relate with about gaming plus she really made my overall first experience that much More Memorable!! 👏🏾 I left with a handful of great ol titles from NES, SNES, SEGA Genesis and Game Gear and a wholesome feeling on my first visit! 🕹 This is the kind of video game shop that we need in our city - it really has the personal connection that is completely lost when shopping online. The human interaction. Being able to physically browse the cartridges hanging on the rack. Admiring the awesome retro artworks on the labels. Having experts who are friendly and stoked to be helpful. Not condescending or too cool to be bothered. This is my new Favorite game store in town! I plan on coming back many more times because it’s just that good!! Thank You HGE! 👾👾👾
Zeke King
my wife and I's favorite spot for retro games and related items! I'm over the moon with the fact we managed to find the 2010 vinyl record for the game Final Fantasy XI hee in particular!
How to reach Hawthorne Game Exchange
None
Website: None
Why Hawthorne Game Exchange may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you’re looking for an exciting, nostalgic, and social way to spend an afternoon or evening with your friends or family, Hawthorne Game Exchange is an ideal destination. Located in Portland, this vibrant game store offers more than just shelves full of video games and accessories — it’s a hub where gaming enthusiasts, collectors, and casual players converge to share in the joy of interactive entertainment. With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews, it’s clear that this place is highly favored for its friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and carefully curated selections. Whether you’re passionate about retro gaming, want to explore rare finds, or just want to enjoy each other's company over a few rounds of your favorite titles, Hawthorne Game Exchange creates the perfect environment for a lively meetup. The staff’s enthusiasm for gaming enhances the experience, making visitors feel welcome and supported. It’s a venue where you don’t just buy or trade games — you create memories and bond over shared interests in gaming and pop culture.
What activities are available at Hawthorne Game Exchange for groups?
Hawthorne Game Exchange offers a rich variety of activities that make it an excellent choice for group meetups. At the core, it is a buy/sell/trade store specializing in games, consoles, and collectibles, especially catering to retro gamers who appreciate the charm of classic titles. This means you and your friends can hunt for rare games, accessories, or vinyl soundtracks together, sparking plenty of conversation and excitement as you discover hidden gems. Beyond shopping, the store serves as a social hub where gamers often exchange tips and stories, facilitated by the approachable and knowledgeable staff who love to engage with patrons. It’s not just about purchasing; it’s also about connecting over mutual passions. The setup encourages friendly competition and cooperative gameplay, perfect for groups wanting to relax and have fun. The store is designed to accommodate people who want to spend a few hours browsing, testing games, or simply hanging out discussing gaming culture. With daily open hours from 11 AM to 7 PM, it’s accessible for daytime or early evening plans with friends or family.
Why is Hawthorne Game Exchange perfect for hosting game meetups?
Hawthorne Game Exchange is particularly suited for hosting game meetups because it blends an inviting atmosphere with diverse gaming culture offerings that appeal to all ages and interests. The store is professionally run and well-known for its authenticity, ensuring that games and consoles are thoroughly checked for quality before sale—important for groups wanting to avoid issues that could spoil their meetup experience. The space is conveniently located, making it easy for friends and families across Portland to gather. Its business hours support weekday and weekend visits, fitting into most schedules. More importantly, the staff’s expertise and genuine passion for gaming create a welcoming vibe that encourages social interaction and group enjoyment. Whether your group consists of hardcore collectors, casual gamers, or those new to gaming, the store’s inclusive environment helps everyone feel comfortable. You can explore a mix of new and classic games while sharing tips or competing in friendly matches. The store even handles console repairs and installations, so if anyone’s equipment needs a quick fix before the fun begins, the service is right there. All these factors combined make Hawthorne Game Exchange a top choice for any group looking to bond over games.
How does Hawthorne Game Exchange support retro and collector gaming?
One of the standout features of Hawthorne Game Exchange is its dedication to retro and collector gaming, which makes it a unique playground for enthusiasts. The store curates a diverse inventory of vintage game cartridges, rare consoles, and hard-to-find accessories, creating a treasure trove for those who cherish gaming history. Friends who share a love for older games can spend hours comparing collections, trading stories about favorite titles, and hunting for elusive items. The staff’s deep knowledge ensures that customers are guided to authentic and well-maintained products, reducing the risks commonly associated with purchasing second-hand goods. This focus on quality and reliability is appreciated by collectors who demand genuine items. Additionally, the shop atmosphere encourages networking among like-minded gamers, often turning casual shopping trips into lively discussion groups or informal meetups. For people wanting to revisit the golden era of gaming or introduce younger family members to classic entertainment, Hawthorne Game Exchange offers a welcoming and resourceful environment.
What kind of customer service experience can visitors expect?
Visitors to Hawthorne Game Exchange consistently highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of the store staff as a major reason to choose this venue for gaming meetups. The team is not only knowledgeable about a wide spectrum of games and hardware but also passionate about sharing their expertise with customers. This creates a personalized shopping and social experience, where questions are welcomed and answered thoroughly. Whether you need advice on game selection, assistance with console repairs, or help evaluating trade offers, the staff is ready to go above and beyond. Many reviews mention quick turnaround times for repairs and top-notch service quality, ensuring that your gaming devices are ready to go when you want to start playing. This reliability lets groups focus on fun and fellowship rather than technical frustrations. Overall, the warm and accommodating customer service at Hawthorne Game Exchange fosters an environment where gamers feel valued and encouraged to return with friends and family time and again.
How accessible and convenient is Hawthorne Game Exchange for groups?
Convenience is a key benefit of rallying at Hawthorne Game Exchange with your friends or family. The store is located in a popular area of Portland, making it easy to reach whether you’re traveling by car or public transit. Its address at 1428 SE 36th Ave is well-known among local gamers, and the operating hours from 11 AM to 7 PM every day including weekends offer flexibility for scheduling group visits. This means you can plan a casual afternoon meetup or an early evening outing without worrying about rushed deadlines. The layout and size of the store accommodate multiple people simultaneously, allowing groups to explore independently or collectively without feeling cramped. Parking options nearby further support comfortable arrival and departure for groups. Additionally, the store’s engagement on social media and open communication channels mean your group can inquire ahead about stock availability, events, or special needs, making your visit smoother. All these factors combine to make Hawthorne Game Exchange highly accessible and practical for hosting gatherings focused on gaming fun.
What additional features enhance the meetup experience at Hawthorne Game Exchange?
Besides the core activities of buying, selling, and trading games, Hawthorne Game Exchange offers several unique features that elevate the group meetup experience. For music-loving gamers, the store stocks game soundtracks on vinyl, which creates an immersive retro vibe and doubles as a conversation starter among attendees. This adds an extra layer to the gaming culture experience, blending audio nostalgia with visuals and gameplay. Furthermore, the store’s open-door policy and daily hours encourage spontaneous visits and extended hangouts, giving groups the freedom to build their own schedules around gaming marathons or casual meetups. The emphasis on genuine product quality means fewer worries about defective items disrupting your plans, and console repair services provide peace of mind for those with older or heavily used devices. Also, the environment promotes socialization beyond just gaming, with many patrons bonding over shared pop culture interests or planning future meetups. For anyone passionate about games and good company, these thoughtful touches make the Hawthorne Game Exchange more than just a store—it’s a community hub.
Why is Hawthorne Game Exchange highly rated by its customers?
The stellar 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews is a testament to Hawthorne Game Exchange’s excellence in multiple areas. Customers praise the store for its wide selection of quality products, emphasizing the authenticity and condition of the games and consoles sold. The knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and friendly staff frequently receive compliments, as does the overall customer service experience, which helps build long-term relationships with visitors. Reviews also highlight the reasonable pricing, especially for retro items and rare finds, which adds significant value for buyers on a budget. Quick and reliable repair services further contribute to customer satisfaction by minimizing downtime. Additionally, the store’s welcoming atmosphere makes it an inviting space for casual visits or in-depth gaming sessions with friends and family. This combination of quality, service, and community creates a winning formula that keeps patrons returning and recommending it as an ideal venue for meetups.
What makes Hawthorne Game Exchange a recommended spot for family gatherings?
Hawthorne Game Exchange is an excellent choice for family gatherings because it offers an inclusive and safe environment where people of all ages can engage in gaming together. The store’s comprehensive inventory spans generations of gamers: parents can reminisce over classic cartridges while their children explore modern or retro games, bridging generational gaps through shared interests. The staff is patient and helpful, making beginners and young gamers feel comfortable. The environment encourages learning and cooperation, fostering positive interactions among family members. Additionally, the focus on quality and product authenticity ensures families can trust the items they purchase. Whether you’re coordinating a casual drop-in or a planned family outing, the flexibility and social atmosphere make it easy to create memorable moments surrounded by games, stories, and laughter.
How does Hawthorne Game Exchange compare to other game stores?
While many game stores primarily focus on the latest releases or mass-market titles, Hawthorne Game Exchange differentiates itself through its dedication to retro games and collectors’ items, combined with excellent customer service. Its strong emphasis on buy/sell/trade creates a dynamic marketplace where gamers can actively engage beyond just purchasing. Compared to larger retailers, the personalized knowledge and community atmosphere at Hawthorne Game Exchange stand out as unique advantages. The store also supports console repairs, adding a practical service that many others do not offer. These factors collectively make it not just a shop, but a social and cultural space for gamers, retro aficionados, and families looking for a distinctive gaming experience with a personal touch. This combination positions it favorably compared to chain stores or purely online outlets.
Visiting Hawthorne Game Exchange with your friends or family guarantees an enriching, entertaining, and social experience that goes beyond mere transactions to celebrate gaming culture in all its forms. Whether you’re a collector, casual gamer, or someone seeking a quality meetup spot, you’ll find this store welcoming, resourceful, and perfectly suited for shared adventures in the world of games.