The Basement Toys & Comics — Local services in Salem

Self-Righteous, Know-It-All, and Rude Comic Book Store Owner.

My recent visit to a local comic book store turned out to be a distressing encounter with a comic book store owner who possessed a trifecta of undesirable traits: self-righteousness, know-it-all attitude, and rudeness. What should have been a thrilling and nostalgic experience turned into a nightmarish ordeal, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth and a desire never to return.From the moment I stepped into the store, I was greeted by the owner's overwhelming aura of self-importance. It was evident that they believed their knowledge of comic books and the industry made them superior to their customers. Instead of embracing the excitement that comes with sharing a passion for comics, they seemed to relish in the opportunity to showcase their perceived expertise at the expense of their patrons.Their rudeness was the proverbial nail in the coffin for me. Politeness and basic customer service seemed alien concepts to this store owner. They displayed impatience, eye-rolling, and outright sarcasm when assisting customers with inquiries or purchases. It was as if they believed they were doing customers a favor by letting them into their sacred domain of comic book knowledge, rather than running a business that relies on customer support.The unfortunate reality is that this comic book store owner's arrogance and unpleasant demeanor overshadowed the store's vast collection of comics. Their self-righteousness and know-it-all attitude created an environment where comic book enthusiasts like myself felt unwelcome and reluctant to engage in meaningful discussions about our shared passion. I would strongly advise fellow comic book lovers to seek out more inclusive and customer-friendly establishments to enjoy their passion for comics. Edit: i would like to clarify that i am visiting my grandparents, my review still stands as this guy is a complete joke...

This is the best and top place to shop for any child with in the Roanoke VA city. I highly recommend this store to any shopping for there children, nieces, nephews and cousins.

My son was very hurt and crushed to hear that the basement was closed for temporary time. He was very brokin and upset. It took me hours to calm him down . I felt his pain . Even tho I am a 35yr old man . The basement holds my childhood as well. I turn so excited Everytime I see something from my childhood I haven't seen in years. I am right along with my , girlfriend I am connected with the store . And have been a true dedicated customer since the was in happys.

I thank the owner JUSTIN for always being so heart warming to my son. I appreciate what he truly did for my son's birthday. And I'm forever grateful for the love he has shown for years.

All of us that love the basement and know what it truly means to have something special and incredible In our lives. We Never wanna see the basement leave. I don't care what store that thinks it can compete. YOU WILL NEVER EQUAL AND MATCH TO THE BASEMENT! Love...

Absolutely one of the best comic and toy shops I have visited; and I used to work at one while attending high school in Texas. Justin is very accommodating and friendly. He was attentive to my questions and pointed me in the right direction of whatever I was looking for. I’ve read the negative reviews about this place and 100% disagree with their claims. 1) everything is priced and if by any chance it isn’t (I didn’t run into this issue) all you have to do is ask. 2) yes there are some “do not touch” signs; but, it’s justifiable to a collector (like me) trying to protect their investment. 3) if you call and respectfully ask for an appt. you will be accommodated. My first time there I didn’t know it was appt. only; so, I called and told him my scenario (I’m not from the area and would only be there the day) and was scheduled an appt. same day (actually 10 minutes from the time I called). If you’re in the Roanoke area, don’t skip this place as it’s a collectors dream. Thank you for all the...