As manager of Krier’s Cards and Comics, John Krier does not just view his store as a place to secure comics books and related merchandise, but as a social hub for friends to gather in a casual gaming environment.
“There are multiple things that draw people to card games, but a huge part is just being able to hang out with friends and have a place to go,” said Krier. “Unlike video games, card games allow you to interact with people next to you and you’re not stuck talking to someone you basically have never seen before.”
With entry fees that vary, Krier’s hosts tournaments for Warhammer 40,000 at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, Magic and Dungeons and Dragons at 6 p.m. on Fridays, Pokémon at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, and Yu-Gi-Oh at 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
“A lot of things appeal players to these tournaments,” reported Krier. “For one, it serves as a social gathering with friends. Other people like the competitiveness that comes with playing against other people and others follow the footsteps of their family members, who have played as well.”
The store also hosts a free board game night every Wednesday night, which according to Krier sees an average of a dozen people. Players can also engage in open table play during non-tournament times.
“A lot of people just bring board games to play and they have fun,” commented Krier.
To demonstrate this point, Krier noted that during the interview two players had come into his store just to play a game together—a social interaction that the 15-year-old business is used to accommodating.
Tournaments are not the only element that draws players to Krier’s, as the store also carries a wide selection of comics, collectors’ magazines, books, manga and sports cards, memorabilia, states, collectibles, toys, and actions figures, including those from Sideshow, Gentle Giant, and Tonner Doll Company.
Krier’s does not stop there, as the store also holds a huge assortment of Star Wars toys and collectibles, non-sport cards, strategy games and board games. The store ensures that if it does not have a certain product in stock, it is more than happy to special order items.
“We offer board games, supplies for cards, comic books, sports cards, and some toys,” said Krier. “We have Walking Dead Action figures, superhero figures, Star Wars Statues, sports memorabilia, and autographed pictures.”
Krier’s Cards and Comics is located at 3900 Pelandale Ave. Suite 305 in Modesto. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. on 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 209.522.0511.
