I cannot say enough about how much I love Vault. There is something for everyone, be it comics, board games, collectibles, manga, art, game dice, Japanese candy, it's endless.
If you're like me, and not sure where to start with so many options, you can talk with the incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and well versed staff, many of whom have been in the business for years and years. Or, as I tend to do, you listen to their podcast Super Skull to learn about the weekly new comics (and make my choice from there).
As long as you can provide a guideline about what you think you're into (my fav genre is kick-ass women, for example) or whomever you might be shopping for, they're sure to have something! I've been introduced to a ton of comics I wouldn't have known to pick up, otherwise. And don't get it stuck in your mind that comics are only super heroes and villains. You've find beautiful art, deep and emotional story telling, and great humor everywhere you look. If they don't have something in the store, it's super easy to have them order it for you!
Comics are just one small aspect to this great business. Other reviewers have mentioned the store's board game collection, which is just massive. I'm not much for board games, but some of my friends are. They've been recommended numerous games, which we've played together, and I've always had a lot of fun!
Vault also puts on events (usually every couple of weeks or so), and those are quick to fill up. The atmosphere of the shop is just always so cheery and lively, and you can tell the employees are passionate...
Read moreBy far, one of my favorite comic book stores this side of the state!
Not to show any sort of bias, but I am. I have been coming by here every other week just because I enjoy the positive atmosphere and enthusiastic nature of the store. I am big fan of store fronts that demand attention from the outside. This building with it's saturated blue exterior is no exception.
This store is filled to the brim with all sorts of nerd/geek/gamer (and all) goodies. From every universe of comics, to every flavor of manga and novel, this store has no faults as far as it's inventory. And, in the occasion that they don't have what you're looking for, they will gladly order it in.
Their selection of shirts, tarot cards, plushies, and stickers/patches are in matching aesthetic to the theme but also unique to their location. I am a huge fan of their collectible selection. As a person with a small addiction to Smiskis, I am happy to find a location that consistently carries them.
Beyond the grand selection, I think this store best quality is in its staff. I have only ever had positive experiences with the people who work here. Nice, easy to talk to, and insightful; Apparently their hiring process aims for only those with big hearts and amazing attitudes.
When ever you walk by, take a step inside. I promise you that a walk around the store is enough to invite you back...
Read moreI was in Ann Arbor, MI yesterday with the family for a weekend getaway, so I decided to stop by Vault of Midnight. I'd never been to that location before. As a matter of fact, I've only been to the Grand Rapids location. Curtis Sullivan, the co-owner, was there and he was very nice and he was surprised to see me at that location. It was a great store. 2 floors of great geeky stuff. My kids got some fun doo-dads like D&D accessories, candy, etc and my wife bought a cool tabletop mystery game. I, personally, was looking for old comics. The lower floor is half back-issue bins and half board games. Unfortunately, I didn't find anything that I needed for my collection...not that there weren't cool comics. I'm just very particular about what I buy now, since I have most of the stuff I ever wanted. It seems that most of the valuable silver and bronze issues are behind the upstairs counter, on the wall, and most of the current to 20 years back back-issues are downstairs in the bins that run the length of the store. My son said that Vault is the coolest comic shop he's ever been to and that's...
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