Back to the Media - Video Games Records & Comics — Local services in Winchester

Having never visited before, I was pretty anticipative of what the feel for the store would be like once I finally did visit. The selection of items really bring a personality to used media stores. But, in short, I was a little let down and unimpressed.

Unlike other retro gaming stores in the general region, BTtM operates as a multimedia store selling mostly games and vinyl. However, the store falls in the same category as unappealing with poor variety and lackluster offerings. The division within the store's identity--a games store or a vinyl shop--really hurts the store, whom I feel like doesn't command a good grasp on both what visitors want and who their customers are.

As someone looking for video games, I marveled over how bland and boring the selection is. Shovelware and other unenticing games make up the bulk of shelves. Some systems only have a couple handfuls of titles available, with so many staples and big name sellers not being sold. I found this practice to be very unusual, as gamers and the casual shoppers will always be wanting first-party titles such as Mario, Pokemon, and other high profile series. Even for a catalog as expansive as the Nintendo DS's, the stock for this was less than fifteen. Scouring shelves for about fifteen minutes, only about five really stood out to me that I was glad the store had stocked for those wanting them. As a note, if you're interested in handheld gaming, you will be greeted with very few games in total across all systems. The store focuses on console gaming.

Despite coming in for games, I did browse the records being sold, with several hundred records being available. Variety within genre was slim, and selections within genres being unexpected and not genre-defining. However, even some new releases were featured separately. Additionally, modern, inexpensive turtables are offered.

As a whole, uninteresting games make up the bulk of shelves, which is disappointing for not only a small store, but a small store that reserves half its space for vinyl, comics, Funko Pop figures, and plush toys.

Visiting on a what was probably the first very first enjoyable Friday evening in terms of weather of 2019, the small store did see some foot traffic. However, not a word was said to my party. It did make the visit a little...

If I could have give no stars I would have. The worst customer service EVER by an owner of a business. I am outraged at his phone manners talking over me the whole time. I bought an album last Sunday and didn't notice it was made in Europe. For those who don't know, all electronics in Europe are completely different than American, therefore albums won't play on American turntables. I called Monday and discovered that they were closed so I called Wednesday and the phone was not in service. I called today and made a joke saying "oh you got your phone fixed", he snapped my head off and said there was nothing wrong with his phone. He then said they are closed Monday and Tuesday, I said I know because I called Monday and there was no answer so my daughter went online and saw it would be open Wednesday so I called back. I then tried to explain my dilemma that I had purchased the album, had not opened the wrapping, but while reading the back cover, I noticed it was made in Europe. He cut me off as I was speaking to him saying it will play, he has the same album and all sales are final. I never even told him the name of the album, however he did guess correctly. I told him I had 2 others that were bought in England and they don't play that the equipment was different. Once again speaking over me, arguing with me, said I didn't have it set on the right speed all albums are 33 and I said yes I knew how to use one. Still talking over me said all sales are final and something else but like I said, still talking over me so I couldn't understand him. He rudely said this conversation was over and hung up on me. I have worked in customer service my entire life and would NEVER EVER be so disrespectful to a customer. This is not how you treat people! I would never recommend this business to anyone. Take your business elsewhere folks, I would hate to hear someone else having been treated like that. STAY AWAY! All I wanted to do was exchange it for...

I recently took my three kids to the new arcade at Back to the Media, and we had an amazing experience! The all-day play pass is such a great deal, especially when compared to other arcades where you have to constantly feed quarters or pay per game. My kids loved being able to play as many games as they wanted without worrying about time limits, and I appreciated how affordable it was for a whole day of fun.

The staff was so friendly, and the atmosphere was perfect for families—everything felt clean and well-maintained. The retro vibe of the pinball machines was a big hit, especially for my older kids who love that classic arcade feel. I’m excited to see that they plan on adding even more features like extended hours and a party room soon.

Overall, Back to the Media’s arcade offers fantastic value and a fun experience for kids and adults alike. We’ll definitely be back for...