Looking for new places to feed your gaming addiction? Whether you’re hunting for the latest AAA title or some vintage cartridge from your childhood, Boise’s got your back.
1. GameStop (The Obvious Choice)
Yeah, yeah, I know. GameStop is about as surprising as Idaho having potatoes. But there’s a reason these guys are still kicking! With locations at Boise Towne Square Mall and out on Milwaukee Street, they’re convenient as heck. The staff usually knows their stuff and can talk gaming all day long.
Tip: Their pre-owned selection is where the real deals hide. Also, sign up for that PowerUp rewards program if you ain’t already cause it actually saves you some decent cash over time.
2. Entertainment Exchange
This local gem in the Fairview Avenue area is basically gaming heaven for collectors. Entertainment Exchange has this amazing mix of new releases sitting right alongside dusty treasures from gaming history. Their prices on used games will make your wallet significantly less sad than the big box stores.
Tip: They buy used games too, and usually offer better trade-in values than those highway robbers at the corporate chains. Plus, the owner sometimes throws in random discounts just cause he’s in a good mood.
3. Hastings… Just Kidding! (RIP)
Pour one out for our fallen homie. Many Boise gamers still ain’t recovered from losing this magical store where you could grab games, comics, coffee, and weird novelty items all in one stop. The void remains unfilled.
4. RePlay Games
This Broadway Avenue treasure is the real deal for retro gaming enthusiasts. If you’re looking for that N64 cartridge from your childhood or some obscure Sega Genesis title, these folks have probably got it tucked away somewhere. The shop has this awesome vibe that’ll make you wanna hang out and talk gaming with the staff for hours.
Tip: Their inventory rotates super quick, so if you see something you want, grab it! Also, follow their social media – they post new arrivals that often sell before they even hit the shelves.
5. Walmart/Target/Best Buy (The Big Box Brigade)
Sometimes you just need that brand new release at midnight without any fuss. The big box stores throughout Boise keep decent inventories, especially the Walmart on Franklin and the Target at Boise Towne Square. Best Buy usually has the best selection of the three, plus those sweet steelbook editions that make collectors drool.
Tip: Target often has random clearance deals where you can score games for stupid cheap. Keep your eyes peeled for those red stickers!
6. R&R Games
This spot in Meridian (I know, technically not Boise, but close enough) is a hidden treasure that sells both tabletop and video games. The shop has this cool community feel where gamers actually hang out and play together. Their selection ain’t massive, but they curate it well with titles you actually want.
Tip: They host gaming tournaments and events regularly. Great way to meet fellow gamers who share your specific brand of nerdiness.
7. Disc Exchange Plus
Mostly known for music, this Eagle Road store actually has a surprising video game section tucked away in the back. You’ll find a mix of current and retro titles, often at prices that’ll make you do a double-take.
Tip: The games are sometimes mispriced (in your favor) because gaming ain’t their main focus. Their loss, your gain!
8. Record Exchange
Another music-first store that secretly houses some gaming goodness. While their downtown Boise location won’t have the latest releases, they occasionally get collections of older games that are worth checking out.
Tip: Most people don’t even know they sell games, so you might score something amazing while everyone else is distracted by vinyl.
9. Facebook Marketplace/Craigslist (The Wild West)
If you’re feeling brave and don’t mind meeting strangers in parking lots, Boise’s online marketplace scene is surprisingly active for gaming. You’ll find everything from complete collections being liquidated to parents selling their kids’ games as punishment.
Tip: Always meet in public places (the Boise police station parking lot has a designated exchange area), and test games before handing over cash when possible.
10. Boise Public Library
While you can’t keep these games forever, the Boise Public Library system has a surprisingly decent collection of current and recent-gen games you can check out for free. When you’re not sure if a game is worth your hard-earned cash, this is a smart way to test it first.
Tip: You can place holds online and have games transferred to whichever branch is closest to you. The main downtown branch typically has the biggest selection.
