How to set up play space for your store or club

A well-thought-out play space is what brings people back to your store every week. You don't need much room to start, but a few details matter.

Tables and chairs

Plan on at least one table for every two or three players you expect at an event. Tables need to be stable and have enough surface for two decks, a life counter, and the cards in play. Comfortable chairs matter more than you'd think — people stay longer where they're comfortable.

Lighting and atmosphere

Even lighting, without glare on the tables, makes cards easier to read. A well-ventilated space at a comfortable temperature makes a big difference during long tournaments.

Schedule and communication

Post a fixed schedule for open play, leagues, and tournaments, and keep it up to date on your social media and your directory listing. Players plan their week around what's published — if the schedule changes without notice, they stop trusting it.

Running events

Define each event's format before announcing it, along with its rules and entry fee.
Set a maximum capacity so every match can have a judge available if needed.
Assign someone on your team to run the judge table during the event.

Next step

Pick your country and the game you're into in the TCG directory, or keep reading the blog.