We first explored the world of Gamescape a couple years ago, and we wanted to check back in on the unsung hero of Divisadero gaming to see whether their daily gaming events were still on track. Luckily, their nightly schedule of games catering to both the ‘noob and the semi-professional alike are going strong.
We stopped in and chatted with Xavier Frazier, whose official title is “Ambiguous Sales Aficionado”, to get the scoop on all the goings on at Gamescape, which, by the way, has been open at the same location for the last 29 years.
The most accessible of all the happenings at the shop is Monday’s “Board Game Night”. Basically, anyone can go to the area they have in back and play board games from 6pm to 11pm. They have all sorts of games provided, or you can bring your own. If you are unsure how to play any of them, people will be more than happy to help you out.
Another night for the relatively new gamer is Wednesday, where they do D&D Encounters from 5pm to 7pm. This is for both seasoned players and those looking for an entry point into role-playing games. You don’t need to bring anything, but according to Xavier, it would be nice if you brought your own polyhedral set of dice, which they of course have for sale.
Finally, on Fridays they have a MAGIC tournament, but you need to bring your own cards (also available for purchase at the store). If you are just learning, come between 3pm and 7pm, since there is an actual tournament held from 7pm to 11pm. So, unless you want to get annihilated by some heavy-hitters back there, it’s best you work your way up to that arena.
The other nights are for more seasoned enthusiasts, so check that schedule to see if any of those evenings tickle your fancy. Xavier mentioned that Thursday (Warhammer) and Sunday (Warmachine) featured games played with miniatures, which are tiny figures that people assemble and paint themselves and pit against one another on fantasy terrain. However, in the true spirit of it all, he did say that there are always people willing to teach those who wish to learn and there are limited demo sets available.
If you're up for a game, don't let the intimidation factor scare you away: Gamescape's game nights are open to people of all ages and skill levels. And of course, it's your one-stop shop for everything that involves boardgames, role playing games, miniatures, puzzles and brainteasers, so head on down if you're in the market for fun and check their website and Facebook for news and updates.
