When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor
Why The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Upkeep Games in Ann Arbor is a standout destination for gaming fans looking to connect, play, and discover. This local game store offers a broad selection of trading cards, board games, miniatures, and graphic novels, catering to both casual players and serious collectors. Its spacious and visually appealing layout provides a welcoming atmosphere, with vibrant displays that showcase popular games like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer 40k, Yu-Gi-Oh, and many more. The store excels not only in its product variety and competitive pricing but also in fostering a vibrant community. Dedicated play areas support both casual gaming meetups and competitive tournaments, making it an ideal spot for gamers to engage with one another and share their passion. Knowledgeable staff help enhance the experience by providing expert advice and game strategy tips. Regular events such as leagues, pre-release tournaments, and Armory days encourage ongoing participation and community bonding. Situated at 2121 West Stadium Boulevard with extended hours through the week and weekends, The Upkeep Games is a central social hub in Ann Arbor for fans of tabletop gaming and collectible cards to meet, compete, and grow their hobbies.
Here's what people think of The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor
As of recent, The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor holds a 4.6-star rating based on 179 reviews.
Customer reviews for The Upkeep Games reveal a predominantly positive reception, with a strong rating of 4.6 stars from 179 reviews. Users consistently praise the store as an essential community pillar for local and visiting gamers and highlight its inclusive and welcoming environment. Positive feedback often focuses on the knowledgeable and helpful staff, the wide variety of games and collectibles available, and the quality of the event spaces that support both casual and competitive play. Many mention that the store's atmosphere fosters camaraderie and fun, making it a favorite gathering place. On the other hand, some critical remarks address pricing concerns, particularly around negotiating costs on specific items. A few customers would like to see improvements in price transparency or availability of certain products. Despite these critiques, the general sentiment remains highly favorable, reflecting the store's strong commitment to community involvement, variety, and customer service. Overall, reviews affirm The Upkeep Games as a beloved gaming destination that balances product excellence with a warm, engaging space for all kinds of tabletop and collectible card enthusiasts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Pavan Purusothaman
Absolutely ridiculous. Don’t even bother going here. After explaining that their listed price for PSA 10 Glaceon and Sylveon VMax are incorrect, their employee and I got it sorted out to $950 in value for the 2 cards. $440 for glaceon and $550 for Sylveon at the time of day (check images for comps) Proceeded to confirm with the manager if that’s the case but lo and behold I get hit with the counter offer of $1200 for both the cards. Glaceon at $550 and Sylveon at $650. The glaceon and Sylveon were $200 more in their eyes for some reason. Never have I been to a more money hungry card shop, 120% would recommend Stadium over these pathetic prices if you’re in the Ann Arbor area. In general the Macomb/Sterling Heights area have a lot friendlier of card shops and I’d recommend GreenLight Cards or even Hyped. Much more transparent and are willing to work with ya most of the time as well. Take a look at the images as well, you can clearly see that they have it listed for a ridiculous price and how the recently sold looks. Best part was even their employee knew that the offer was ridiculous, he tried explaining it to their “manager” but I guess that guy wasn’t willing to work out a deal for the long term relationship. They more focused on that extra $200. Even if I was paying market at $950 or $1000, that would make sense and it’s still in favor for the store. Overall, just very disappointing to see that a lot of the lower star reviews this place has are validated and true. I’ve been to over 30 Pokémon shops all over Michigan in the last 6-9 months and this place just doesn’t cut it and is very unlikely to receive my business in the future moving forward. Best of luck to you guys! **Moreover Edit** The only reason I’m not giving a 1 star review is because the card selection is pretty good and the community that plays here is also pretty good. They do giveaways and are successful for obvious reasons. It’s just not what I expected when trying to work out a $1000 deal with them. There are definitely better vendors and stores who will work a lot better with you as a buyer.
Brandon Wayne
Be careful making purchases here. Placed an online order for a card that was listed as “near mint” and after I had purchased the card and pulled it out of the sleeve, I noticed that there was wear on the top of the card and a speck of small debris attached to it. After bringing this to the attention of the staff, they took the card in search for another one. Clearly the card was not “near mint.” After a short period of time. A sloppily dressed heavyset male with a neck beard came out from the back room and said “This card is near mint; That Magic cards come out of the packs that way.” Which I know for a fact, they don’t because I’ve never opened a pack in my 20+ years of playing magic where a chocolate-like debris had been adhered to a card. He then laughed and said “You’re doing this for a dollar?” to which I replied “I’m bringing this up because the card is not near mint.” I was then asked if i had a gift card to put the dollar on and fortunately I had one because I have done plenty of business at this location. Long story short, they do not inspect cards thoroughly. They make purchases off of people at a lightly played value and resell them for Near Mint. It is obvious from this interaction that they do not care to correct their mistakes, and that they hire staff that will insult you for pointing those mistakes out directly to them. Shady cast of people that work here. **Moreover Edit** The only reason I’m not giving a 1 star review is because I have done a lot of business at this location over the course of the last 2 years. The card selection is pretty good and the community that plays here is also pretty good. They do giveaways and can be extremely helpful when brainstorming deck ideas. It’s just rather unfortunate that they would list a near mint card at $42 when it’s market value is $39, and then give a dollar back to store credit when the card was blatantly not near mint at all.
David B
Stopped in for the first time today looking for a commander deck. Right away the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable! The space was great they had a little bit of everything as well as a side room just to game!
Em Mabry
I always have such a good time coming to check out their selection of stuff for mtg. I'm still very new and they are super informative and help me along the way with what I have in mind. Also such a good selection of individual cards, packs, sleeves, cases, and just about anything you would need. I love coming here to get cards for a deck I'm building, sell cards, or just crack some packs open!
Matt Wilkinson
Very nice selection of paints and brushes for Warhammer I do wish they had a water pot but besides that great!
How to reach The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor
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Why The Upkeep Games - Ann Arbor may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Upkeep Games with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Upkeep Games in Ann Arbor is an invitation to dive into a shared world of creativity, strategy, and social fun that few places can match. In an age where digital distractions often dominate leisure time, The Upkeep Games offers a warm, inviting physical space to reconnect with others face-to-face through the timeless joy of tabletop gaming. Whether your group is a seasoned team of strategic veterans or newcomers curious about this vibrant hobby, the store is a dynamic hub where everyone can engage deeply. The thoughtful curation of games ensures there is something for every taste—from fast-paced card battles to elaborate role-playing campaigns—making it easy to find a common ground for fun. Beyond just games, The Upkeep Games cultivates a community atmosphere, encouraging interaction, friendly competition, and teamwork, elements that transform any meetup into a memorable social occasion. Your gathering here is less about just passing time and more about building bonds, sharing laughs, and sparking a joy that only collaborative play can offer.
What activities can you enjoy at The Upkeep Games that make it ideal for group meetups?
The Upkeep Games hosts a spectacular variety of activities tailored to satisfy groups of all sizes and interests, making it a prime destination for meetups. Trading card games are at the heart of their offerings, featuring popular titles like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and others. These games blend skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, providing intense, competitive fun that encourages players to learn, adapt, and challenge each other. For groups that prefer immersive storytelling, the store offers resources and space for Dungeons & Dragons, where players embark on epic adventures guided by a Dungeon Master, creating experiences that foster teamwork and imagination. Tabletop wargaming enthusiasts can delve into the complex world of Warhammer 40k, strategizing with miniatures and tactics in battles that are as visually captivating as they are mentally engaging. Apart from these, The Upkeep Games stocks a wide range of board games and newer favorites like Marvel Champions, offering diverse gameplay styles—from cooperative challenges to direct competition. The store’s layout and atmosphere are purposely designed to accommodate groups comfortably, with dedicated play areas perfect for tournaments, casual sessions, or private events, ensuring a seamless and inclusive meetup experience.
How does The Upkeep Games foster a community atmosphere that enhances your meetup experience?
One of the standout qualities of The Upkeep Games is its focus on cultivating a vibrant, engaged community where both new and experienced gamers feel welcomed and supported. The staff are knowledgeable and approachable, offering advice not only on game rules and strategies but also on assembling decks, building armies, or selecting the perfect game for your group’s dynamic. This personal touch helps newcomers overcome any initial uncertainty, encouraging them to participate fully and confidently. Regularly scheduled events, such as casual game nights, leagues, and competitive tournaments, provide natural opportunities to socialize, form new friendships, and deepen existing ones through shared enthusiasm. These events also spur a sense of camaraderie and belonging, as players gather around common interests and create traditions. Furthermore, the store's open and spacious layout encourages organic interaction, whether during gameplay or while browsing the extensive selection of cards and games. This lively environment turns any meetup into more than just a planned activity—it becomes a social occasion charged with excitement, encouragement, and collective passion.
Why is the location and environment of The Upkeep Games perfect for hosting friends and family?
The Upkeep Games is centrally located in Ann Arbor, offering easy accessibility for local residents and visitors alike, which is a significant convenience when planning group outings. Its storefront is visually inviting with vibrant displays that intrigue passersby and call gamers inside to explore. Inside, ample space allows multiple groups to play simultaneously without feeling cramped, an important factor that preserves the intimacy of your own gathering while still adding to the communal energy of the venue. Comfortable seating and well-organized tables provide an ideal setup for extended sessions where groups can settle in and enjoy uninterrupted gameplay. The environment is designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, welcoming players of various ages and experience levels, making it a versatile choice for family meetups as well as adult gatherings. The combination of accessibility, spaciousness, and ambiance creates a setting that feels both lively and welcoming—essential traits for a place where friends and family can reconnect and create shared memories.
What makes The Upkeep Games an excellent resource for both casual players and serious collectors?
The Upkeep Games boasts a comprehensive inventory that appeals across the spectrum of gaming enthusiasts—from casual weekend players to serious collectors. They stock a broad selection of singles for trading card games like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon, allowing collectors to find rare and sought-after cards as well as competitive staples. This extensive selection supports various playstyles and budgets, making it easy for individuals and groups to tailor their gaming experience. The store's prices are competitive, often matching or favorably competing with larger retail chains, which is a significant benefit for both collectors and casual buyers. Their knowledgeable staff can help visitors navigate the sometimes complex market of collectible cards and games, offering insights into card values, game meta trends, and strategic purchases. This expert guidance helps foster well-informed decisions, ensuring that every visit enriches a player’s collection or game library. Whether you’re simply picking up a new game to try together with friends or expanding a serious gaming collection, The Upkeep Games provides the resources and expertise to support your goals.
How do events and tournaments at The Upkeep Games enrich the social experience of your meetup?
Participating in events and tournaments at The Upkeep Games elevates a typical meetup into an exhilarating competitive or cooperative experience. These events are thoughtfully organized to cater to a range of skill levels, from beginner-friendly casual play to high-stakes competitive matches, which ensures broad participation and enjoyment. Tournaments add a layer of excitement and tangible goals, motivating players to hone their skills and strategies while enjoying friendly rivalry. Casual game nights and leagues foster a relaxed atmosphere where social interaction and shared play take precedence, encouraging laughter, storytelling, and teamwork. Events facilitate networking among gamers, helping build a strong community where participants return regularly, not just for the games but for the friendships and memories formed. Additionally, the friendly and respectful environment nurtured at The Upkeep Games ensures that everyone, regardless of experience, can feel comfortable trying new games and connecting with others. This active event schedule transforms meetups at the store into engaging communal experiences that keep groups coming back for more.
Why does The Upkeep Games stand out compared to other gaming stores for hosting group meetups?
The Upkeep Games distinguishes itself through a combination of diverse game offerings, community-centered service, and a welcoming atmosphere that is especially suited for group activities. Unlike many generic stores, it caters specifically to the interests of tabletop and card gamers, offering expert support and a curated gaming catalogue that excites both newcomers and veterans. Its commitment to community-building through events and knowledgeable staff makes it a place where people feel more than just customers—they become part of a passionate local gaming family. The spacious and thoughtfully designed play areas demonstrate the store’s understanding of what makes group gatherings enjoyable and comfortable. Furthermore, its consistent high rating of 4.6 with nearly 180 reviews reflects the positive experiences of countless visitors who appreciate the quality of service, game variety, and social opportunities. This reputation underscores why The Upkeep Games is more than a store—it is a destination where people come together to connect, compete, and celebrate their love of games.
What should you expect during your visit to The Upkeep Games in Ann Arbor?
When you visit The Upkeep Games, you can expect a warm welcome, a clean and well-organized space, and a treasure trove of games and collectibles to explore. The staff will likely greet you with helpful recommendations tailored to your group’s gaming interests and skill level, easing you into whatever activity you choose. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with groups gathered around tables engaged in spirited matches or collaborative quests. If you’re new, there’s ample opportunity to watch games in session or receive guidance before diving in, making the store very beginner-friendly. Expect a high level of enthusiasm and passion for gaming permeating the air, as well as a calendar filled with events that can complement your meetup with an official tournament or casual play night. Overall, a visit here provides the kind of vibrant, interactive experience that goes beyond typical shopping—it’s about joining a community and creating shared joyful moments with friends and family.
How can The Upkeep Games contribute to making your group meetup unforgettable?
The Upkeep Games contributes to unforgettable group experiences by blending entertainment, education, and community into each visit. The diverse game selection ensures that you can tailor your event to the specific tastes and moods of your group, from collaborative storytelling in role-playing games to intense strategic battles in card games. The social environment encourages interaction and bonding, as players communicate, strategize, and share victories and defeats. Knowledgeable staff facilitate smooth gameplay and enrich your experience with insights that deepen your appreciation of the games. Special events add an extra layer of excitement and lasting memories, often inspiring traditions among groups that frequent the store. Ultimately, your meetup here becomes a rich opportunity to enjoy quality time with your circle in a setting that values fun, friendship, and the spirit of play above all else. Such an experience naturally leaves lasting impressions that encourage return visits and long-term community connections.