Tucked in the heart of our neighborhood, Game Ogre is more than just a store– it’s a lively hub where families, friends and gamers of all ages gather. With shelves overflowing with board games, from the classics to the latest hits, and an impressive collection of Pokémon cards and other collectibles, there’s something for everyone. The air is always filled with laughter and the sound of dice rolling, as groups settle in at the game tables for hours of fun. Whether you’re here to discover a new game or hang out in a welcoming space, Game Ogre is the perfect spot for both.

The atmosphere is filled with energy. The feeling upon entering gives it a more cozy atmosphere like light night board games at Grandma’s. With its warm lighting, welcoming tables and organized displays, the store feels more like a common gathering place than a retail shop. It’s a space made for interaction, where already friends can come and new friendships are formed over shared victories and playful rivalries.

Located conveniently in the Pavilions plaza at the crossroads of Lindero Canyon Road and Kanan Road, Game Ogre sits right in the core of Oak Park, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The location itself is a bustling center of activity, surrounded by cafes and shops that add to the store’s lively atmosphere.

Eric Koller, the enthusiastic and dedicated manager of Game Ogre, has been running Game Ogre since opening in 2016. With almost a decade of experience, Koller has seen firsthand how much the store has grown within the community.

“A large part of our business is running events,” Koller said. “We run events for all types of games that we sell. Some events are competitive where players play to win prizes or invitations to regional tournaments.” 

Whether you’re playing with friends or going for a family game night, Game Ogre offers a unique experience while playing. 

“We have events for a full range of ability and casualness. Most of the time you can just walk in and have some fun on the tables,” Koller said. 

Game Ogre hosts local tournaments and special events nearly every day, keeping the calendar full of exciting opportunities to play and compete. The store’s website features a constantly updated event calendar where customers can browse upcoming tournaments, casual play nights, themed game nights, and even how-to classes for beginners who want to learn a new game from scratch. It’s a great way for newcomers to ease into the experience and for more seasoned players to discover fresh challenges.

“People will travel from all over Los Angeles to come and play at the shop. We’ve even had people from San Diego come — most commonly to compete in our trading card game events,” Koller added.

The reputation of Game Ogre has spread far beyond Oak Park, making it a destination for serious gamers and casual players. 

Mateo Rubin, a tenth grader at Westlake High School, enjoys laid-back board games and spending time with friends over a good laugh.

“Going to Game Ogre was awesome. The second I walked in, it felt great,” Rubin said. 

The store’s welcomings staff and wide range of games made it a standout spot for young players looking for a community. 

“The staff were really chill and helped me find the perfect setup. I have been to a couple of game stores and it’s rare to find a spot like [Game Ogre]. I will definitely be back!” Rubin added. 

Senior and president of the Dungeons and Dragons Club Enzo Crivello visits Game Ogre quite frequently. 

“The staff at the front desk are very nice and very approachable,” Crivello said. 

As the president of the D&D club at OPHS, Crivello utilizes the range of games at Game Ogre to help fill his passion and love for board games. 

“There are a lot of materials that are actually really cheap and some of the more expensive role playing games are really exclusive, specifically in Oak Park!” Crivello added.

As the shelves at Game Ogre continue to fill with new games and familiar favorites, it’s clear that the store has become more than just a business. It’s a gathering place where memories are made, friendships can be created, and a new passion for a game can be found, often sparking lifelong hobbies. Whether you’re visiting for a tournament, a casual game night or just browsing, the welcoming spirit is always the same. With its warm atmosphere and strong community, Game Ogre has become a true gem within the Pavilions Plaza, Westlake, offering a place where everyone can find a little joy in simply playing together.