Goin' Gaming — Local services in Troutdale

After playing in the pre-release for the latest Flesh and Blood at Goin' Gaming's new location, I left feeling discouraged and disinterested from attending further events at Goin' Gaming. It was expressed by staff during our first round that they would not have any kind of prizing during the event for either participation or performance, and instead they suggested that if players wanted additional product that they could instead purchase packs in bundles of 8 as part of a "pre-release package," essentially paying for product before the official street date. While there was an article released by LSS about being able to sell leftover product after prizing, the fact that Goin' did not engage in prizing of any kind was incredible discouraging as it seemed very apparent that rather than celebrate and reward their players for attending, the shop was instead interested in quickly turning over product for cash. Halfway through the second round, players began to drop out of the tournament to open sealed product, with one player actively walking the tables having purchased an entire sealed box of product three days before the official street date. By the time the third and final round was to be played, players were disinterested as they had nothing to play for and instead opted to just open their product rather than engage with the game in the way that was initially advertised, being the tournament structure with several players deciding to drop from the event as a result given that they would not receive additional product for supporting the store by participating in the event. The shop is in a great location off the highway, and has offered their services for competitive level events in the past as well, and I would like to support them in the future. But unfortunately I will not be Goin' again as long as this kind of behavior continues from staff...

[EDIT 11/25/2018] I went in yesterday for the soft opening of their food and beverage service after the recent remodel. I would never have recognized the place! It's so roomy, with space to move and browse freely without feeling like you're interrupting a game. The food was tasty; we ordered a "Cannon Grinder" (pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, marinara) and the "Seacow" (roast beef, grilled peppers, forgot what kind of cheese). Both were served hot off a panini press (I think) with a sweet pickle and a bag of chips. Both were extremely tasty and melty and crunchy. Their menu had a few other sandwich options and a soup du jour. There's also a bottomless cereal bar for those who want to indulge their inner (or outer?) child. The store has a stage and performance area, and there are rumors of live music and karaoke in the future! With their new beer, wine, and cider options, I definitely look forward to spending more time here, hopefully playing D&D.

Great job, Becky and Alan! So stoked!

[EDIT 3/5/2018]: I ended up taking my boy to play their "newbie DnD" night. It has been a great way to introduce children and adults to a fun, imaginative game in a structured yet relaxed environment. I look forward to our meet-ups weekly, and think it's a fantastic way to connect with friends and family. Thanks for hosting us!

Cool little gaming shop off the beaten path. The guy working last night (9/12/17) was happy to talk to us about Magic. I plan on bringing my kids back soon for newbie...

Covid update 4/3/22:

The menu isn't the same. It's limited but it's still a great place and this will pass. Things will get better. They've added hard alcohol to the menu for example.

Keep an eye on this place for good things

Old review:

I live in Vancouver and own my own store like this. In the interest of full transparency, I met the owners before they opened the store (not much before) but have been nothing short of impressed by their store.

They have invested countless hours and dollars into creating a clean, vibrant and interesting place for gamers to gather.

You can order a pint, you can get tasty food.

If I'm within 5 miles of the store and have the time, I almost always get my food here. Great prices and great tasting. I've never had a bad meal and so far that's about a dozen or so meals.

Seriously, this is a great spot. You can do karaoke on Friday nights REGARDLESS OF YOUR AGE!

This is not a bar, this is a hangout that serves beer. Make no mistake, it's family...