By guest contributor Chris, co-host of Digestive Tracks. This weekly radio show on CKCU FM 93.1 plays every Wednesday morning from 10 to 11 and features tips on the local dining scene that any Ottawa foodie can’t afford to miss. Also be sure to check out Chris’ new blog on Canadian gaming, the Canconsole.
As all videogame geeks can tell you, hunting for games can be both expensive and frustrating. Instead of sticking to one store, savvy gamers keep their eyes peeled for deals and rarities in a variety of different places. Remember, this list is 100% biased and subjective. Enjoy!
3 locations at 208 Bank Street, 2440 Bank Street and 1556 Merivale Road
As a dedicated game store, this one has it all: a wide selection of new and used games from nearly the whole gamut of gaming generations, reasonable prices, and (generally) knowledgeable, friendly staff. What I really love about this store is the fact that it often stocks new copies of games no longer carried by the big box chains. Case in point: late in the PS2’s lifecycle when both Katamari Damacy and ICO had become rarities, Microplay came through in spades by stocking both titles new. Make this your first choice when hitting the brick and mortar stores.
CGCC Swap Meets
Various Locations
While these events happen only occasionally, they are worth your time especially if you are a collector of rare games. The Classic Gaming Collectors of Canada group has been hosting swap meets across the country for a few years now, and every so often one pops up in Ottawa. Watch www.cgcc.ca for the announcement of a summer meet at a currently undisclosed location.
Great Canadian Super Store/Loblaws
The best location is 1980 Ogilvie Rd.
I’ve recently been converted to these gaming gems that are often forgotten in the sea of specialty electronics stores. While you should be prepared to wade through bargain bins and often poorly arranged shelves, you might just find some gold. I recently had some luck when I found Killer 7 for the PS2 for only $4.44. (Yes, I am aware that this is a last generation game; it’s still an exceptional deal!) These stores often try to get the jump on the competition by dropping prices on older games a bit sooner. For example, I recently noticed that BioShock for the PS3 had fallen to $39.99, a move that would take Electronics Boutique and the other chains several weeks to catch up to.
Various Locations
This one is similar to the Superstore above: you’ll have to wade through a lot of junk, but when you find a deal it’s bound to be a good one. Not too far back, I found several unopened copies of Eternal Sonata for the 360 for $19.99. This is a game that lists for $44.99 new and $29.99 used at Electronics Boutique.
Electronics Boutique
Various Locations
This one is only on here because it has to be. As a dedicated game store, this one has visibility and location down pat. Unfortunately, it also has ridiculous up-sells, ludicrous used game prices and staff members that range from ambivalent to belligerent. I can’t count how many times I’ve tried to purchase a new game at EB and instead was given an open (unwrapped) copy covered with stickers and fingerprints. A certain type of customer swears by EB, but smart gamers shop elsewhere.
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