In the age of online shopping and massive retail chains, it’s easy to overlook the impact of preordering games from your local game store (LGS). But these small businesses are the heart of the gaming community, providing not just products such as Magic: the Gathering but also a place to connect, play, and discover new favorites. Preordering from your LGS isn’t just about securing a copy of the latest release—it’s a direct way to support the store, help it thrive, and ensure it remains a hub for gamers like you. Here’s why your preorder can make a bigger difference than you might think.

Preordering from your local game store (LGS) directly supports its financial stability. Small businesses operate on thin margins, and knowing how many copies of a game to order helps them manage inventory and avoid overstocking or underordering. Preorders provide guaranteed sales, giving the store cash flow before the game even releases, which helps cover expenses like rent, utilities, and staff wages.

Beyond finances, preorders allow the store to negotiate better deals with distributors. When a store can show high preorder numbers, it has more leverage to secure larger allocations of in-demand products. This means they can get exclusive items, promotional materials, or even discounts that they might pass on to loyal customers. Without preorders, they might receive fewer copies, especially for high-demand games, making it harder for them to compete with big retailers.

Preorders also create a stronger gaming community. When customers commit to a game ahead of time, it generates buzz and excitement among local players. This often leads to launch events, tournaments, or casual game nights that bring people into the store regularly. A thriving community means more foot traffic, increasing the chances of additional sales on accessories, snacks, or other impulse purchases.

Supporting your LGS through preorders helps keep it open and thriving. Unlike big online retailers, local game stores offer a personal touch—knowledgeable staff, recommendations, and a space to play. If too many customers opt for larger retailers instead of preordering locally, the store may struggle to survive, leading to fewer gaming spaces and fewer opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts.

Finally, preordering ensures you get the game you want without the hassle of hunting it down later. High-demand titles often sell out, and securing a copy at your LGS means you don’t have to rely on scalpers or wait for restocks. It’s a win-win: you get your game on release day, and the store gets the support it needs to continue serving the community.

Thanks for reading and until the next blog post.

Building a successful Magic: The Gathering local game store (LGS) requires careful planning, community engagement, and a commitment to providing a positive gaming experience. Here are some steps to consider when building your LGS:

1. Define Your Vision: Clarify your goals and vision for your LGS. Determine the type of gaming community you want to create, the atmosphere you aim to foster, and the services you want to offer. This will help guide your decisions and actions throughout the process.
2. Location and Space: Find a suitable location for your LGS. Consider factors such as accessibility, foot traffic, parking availability, and the size of the space. Ensure the space can comfortably accommodate gaming tables, seating, storage for inventory, and a welcoming environment for players.
3. Inventory and Supplies: Stock a diverse range of Magic: The Gathering products, including booster packs, pre-constructed decks, singles, sleeves, playmats, and other gaming accessories. Keep up-to-date with new releases and expansions to meet the demands of your players.
4. Organize Events: Plan and host a variety of Magic events to attract players to your store. This can include Friday Night Magic (FNM), prerelease events, drafts, standard and modern tournaments, casual play nights, and other formats based on player preferences. Regularly update and promote your event schedule to keep players informed.
5. Engage the Community: Foster a welcoming and inclusive community by organizing events that cater to players of different skill levels and interests. Encourage players to provide feedback and suggestions to continually improve the gaming experience. Offer opportunities for players to connect and socialize, such as player meetups, leagues, and special events.
6. Knowledgeable Staff: Hire or train staff members who are knowledgeable about Magic: The Gathering and can assist players with rules, deck-building advice, and product recommendations. Friendly and helpful staff members contribute to a positive and supportive atmosphere in your LGS.
7. Organize Tournaments and Prizes: Host well-structured and fair tournaments with appropriate prize support. Ensure you have a clear understanding of tournament rules and regulations to create a competitive yet enjoyable environment. Consider offering unique or exclusive prizes to incentivize participation and create excitement among players.
8. Promote Your LGS: Utilize various marketing strategies to raise awareness about your LGS. This can include online advertising, social media presence, partnerships with local gaming groups or organizations, and collaborating with other businesses in the gaming industry. Actively engage with the Magic: The Gathering community both locally and online.
9. Provide a Comfortable Gaming Space: Create a comfortable and inviting gaming area with ample seating, well-lit tables, and a clean environment. Consider providing amenities such as free Wi-Fi, refreshments, and dedicated spaces for trading and deck-building.
10. Build Relationships with Distributors: Establish relationships with reputable distributors to ensure a consistent supply of Magic products. This will help you maintain inventory levels and provide timely access to new releases.

Remember, building a successful LGS takes time and effort. Continually evaluate and adapt your approach based on player feedback, changing trends, and the needs of your community. With dedication and a commitment to fostering a vibrant gaming community, your Magic: The Gathering local game store can thrive.