Beginning our journey through Poznań's card game stores, it's impossible to miss three unique places that combine respect for tradition with openness to modern trends in the world of games.

The first stop is the already iconic Game Store, located on Półwiejska Street. This small, but extremely rich in assortment store has been operating in Poznań for more than a decade, gaining the status of a legend among local gamers. The history of the place dates back to 2009, when two game enthusiasts decided to create a space that would be more than just an outlet. Today, Game Store is a place where you can find both classic titles and the latest releases of card games from around the world. Particularly impressive is the Magic: The Gathering collection, which attracts collectors even from remote parts of the country. What sets the place apart? First of all, the atmosphere - warm, almost family-like, where every new visitor is treated like a member of the community. The owners know their regular customers by name and are able to advise the perfect game based on individual preferences. Prices at the Game Store can be described as average, but the quality of service and the opportunity to test a game before buying fully compensate for this.

Slightly different in nature is PLAN-SZA, located on Sagittarius Street. This store, operating since 2015, has grown into a true center of the gaming community in Poznan. PLAN-SZA is not only a place for shopping, but also a space for gaming - several tables are always available for customers who want to play a game of their favorite game. An interesting fact is that the store was built on the site of a former science bookstore, and the owners decided to keep some of the original bookcases, which gives the interior a unique, somewhat nostalgic character. PLAN-SZY specializes in card games with fantasy and sci-fi themes, with an impressive collection of add-ons for popular systems. It's worth mentioning the place's unique initiative - the 'Card Players', which helps connect people with similar interests and preferences. Prices at PLAN-SZY range from cheap, simple games for beginners to expensive, collector's editions for true enthusiasts.

The third place worth a visit is Wilczek, the store with the longest history among Poznan's game outlets. Operating on Garbary Street since 1998, Wilczek has undergone a real evolution - from a small toy store to a specialized point for card and board game enthusiasts. This place has something of a time machine about it - you can find both the latest editions of popular games and true white ravens that have long disappeared from the mainstream. The owner, Mr. Marek (known among regular customers as 'Wilk'), is a real treasure trove of knowledge about the history of games in Poland. His stories about the beginnings of the hobby in the 1990s, when the first card games reached Poland, are fascinating for any enthusiast. Wilczek's specialty is collectible games, especially those with fantasy themes. Prices here are a bit higher than in other places, but this is compensated by the possibility to find real rarities, unavailable anywhere else.

Comparing the three places, there are some differences. Game Depot offers the most comprehensive assortment, ideal for those looking for variety. PLAN-SZA is distinguished by its gaming space and strong emphasis on community building, making it an ideal place for those looking not only for products, but also for company to play with. Wilczek, on the other hand, is a true paradise for collectors and those who appreciate tradition, although prices can be a bit higher here. However, all three places are united by their passion for games and the genuine commitment of their owners, who treat their stores not only as a business, but above all as a mission to spread gaming culture.

Continuing our tour of Poznan card game stores, it is worth noting two places that represent a modern approach to traditional entertainment, while maintaining a unique character and atmosphere.

The store at Wookie's, located on Grochowska Street, is a real gem for fans of the Star Wars universe and other science fiction worlds. Founded in 2011 by Wojtek 'Wookie' Kowalski, a passionate fan of sci-fi games and movies, it quickly became more than just a store - it's a true sanctuary for lovers of the genre. The history of the place is fascinating - it started with a small collection of Star Wars: The Card Game cards, to grow over time into an impressive collection of card and board games from various universes. The interior of the store is as impressive as the assortment - the walls are adorned with movie posters, figurines and spaceship models, and soundtracks from iconic sci-fi productions can often be heard in the background. The specialty at Wookie's is, of course, card games set in the Star Wars universe, but you'll also find a wide selection of other titles, from Star Trek to Battlestar Galactica. What sets this place apart? First of all, regular themed tournaments, which attract players from all over Greater Poland. Night game marathons, held several times a year, during which the store does not close its doors for 24 hours, have already become legendary. Prices at Wookie's can be described as average, although collector's rarities can reach dizzying amounts.

Of a completely different nature is the Piwniczaki Store, located on Zofia Nalkowska Street. As the name suggests, the store is located in a cozy tenement basement, which gives it a unique, somewhat mysterious atmosphere. It's a relatively young place - it's been operating since 2017, but has already managed to make a name for itself among Poznan players. The founders, siblings Ania and Pawel, decided to create a space that would combine a store with a meeting and gaming place. The story behind the creation of Piwniczaki is quite unusual - the premises served as a wine warehouse for years, and during renovations a secret passageway leading to an adjacent basement was discovered, which now serves as a 'secret tournament room'. Cellars specializes in horror and dark fantasy-themed card games, with an impressive collection of 'Arkham Horror: The Card Game' and 'Call of Cthulhu'. Interestingly, the store organizes regular RPG sessions inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, which are extremely popular. Authorial additions to popular games, created by the owners and regulars, are also a unique part of the offer. Prices at Piwniczaki are affordable, and a loyalty system allows regular customers to receive favorable discounts.

Comparing the two places with those previously described, there are a few notable differences. Wookie's is dominated by sci-fi themes, making it an ideal place for fans of that genre, but may be less appealing to those who prefer other climates. Cellars, on the other hand, specializes in horror and dark fantasy, which also attracts a certain audience. In terms of gaming space, Cellars offers more space and a more intimate atmosphere than Wookie's, but the latter stands out for its richer tournament program. As for prices, both places keep them at a similar average level, although at Wookie's the collectible rarities can be much more expensive.

An interesting aspect of both places is their role in the local gaming community. At Wookie's, there are regular gatherings of Star Wars fans that go beyond the games themselves - there are movie screenings, discussions and cosplay contests. Cellars, on the other hand, has become a hub for RPG enthusiasts, offering not only a space to play games, but also workshops for budding game masters. This community function of the stores is extremely important - in the age of digitization and online gaming, places like these create space for real interaction and building friendships based on shared passion.

Also worth mentioning are the unique educational initiatives run by both stores. At Wookie's, there are regular modeling workshops for children and teenagers, where participants learn to create spaceship models. Piwniczaki, on the other hand, organizes cyclical 'Evenings with Game Classics', during which historical card games and their evolution over the centuries - from traditional cards to modern collector systems - are presented.

To complete our journey through Poznan's card game stores, there are two places that can be described as true niche gems. These are outlets that may not attract the attention of the average passerby, but for true game connoisseurs they are real treasures.

PowerGames, located on Malwowa Street, is a place with a fascinating history. The store was founded in 2013 as a console game exchange, only to evolve over time into card and board games. This unusual transformation has given the place a unique character - it is one of the few stores in Poland where you can find both modern card games and those inspired by classic video games. The interior of powerGames is a real trip back in time for game lovers - the walls are decorated with posters from cult productions of the 80s and 90s, and in the showcases you can admire collectible cards from the Pokémon, Final Fantasy or Kingdom Hearts series. The owner, Mr. Tomasz, is a true retro gaming enthusiast and can talk for hours about the relationship between video games and card games. PowerGames specializes in card games based on popular computer and console game series. Particularly impressive is the collection of Japanese card games, which rarely make it to the Polish market. Interestingly, the store organizes regular arcade-style tournaments, combining elements of video and card games. Prices at powerGames range from affordable starter sets to expensive collector's editions imported from Japan.

The last, but equally fascinating stop on our map is Grybezpradu, located on Galla Anonima Street. This small, somewhat hidden store (entrance from the street) is a true paradise for lovers of traditional card games. Founded in 2016 by a group of friends who met during a blackout in Poznan (hence the name), it quickly became a hub for those who appreciate analog entertainment. The history of the place is as interesting as its offerings - it started with a small collection of classic card games, only to grow over time into more niche and original productions. The interior of Grybezprad is cozy and minimalist - wooden elements dominate, and lighting is provided mainly by candles and oil lamps, which creates a unique atmosphere conducive to concentration while playing. The store specializes in traditional card games from all over the world - from European classics to exotic games from Asia and Africa. Particularly interesting is the collection of historical decks of cards, including reproductions of designs from the 15th and 16th centuries. Grybezpradu organizes regular 'Candlelight Evenings', during which participants can learn about forgotten card games under minimal lighting, which is meant to simulate the conditions in which they were played before the era of electricity. Prices at Grybezpradu are moderate, although historical reproductions and handmade decks can be quite expensive.

Comparing all seven of the described stores, one can see how diverse the offer is for card game enthusiasts in Poznan. Each place has its own specialization and unique character, allowing players with different preferences to find something for themselves. In terms of assortment, Game Depot seems to be the most versatile, while places like Wookie's or Grybezprad offer a more specialized, niche selection. In terms of gaming space, PLAN-SZA and Cellars are the best, offering a comfortable environment for longer games. In terms of pricing, most stores keep it average, though you can find both cheaper beginner options and more expensive, collector's editions at each.

The community aspect of these places is also worth noting. Each of the stores described is not just an outlet, but also a hub for enthusiasts, offering a space to meet, hold tournaments and learn new games together. This inclusive function is extremely valuable in an era of digitization of entertainment and increasing social isolation.

Another interesting aspect of Poznan's card game scene is its history. The oldest of the described stores, Wilczek, has been operating since 1998 and has witnessed the evolution of the hobby in Poland - from a niche pastime for a few enthusiasts to a popular form of spending time. Younger places, on the other hand, such as Grybezpradu and Piwniczaki, represent new trends and approaches to gaming, combining tradition with innovation.

In conclusion, Poznań card game stores offer much more than just the opportunity to buy products. They are true cultural centers, places to meet and exchange experiences that contribute to building and developing a community of gamers. Whether you are an experienced player, a collector of rare cards, or a person taking his first steps in the world of card games, in Poznan you are sure to find a place that will answer your needs and allow you to develop your passion.