Cowabunga Games and Collectibles

We always enjoy going to Cowabunga. He has a great community built and always keeps players in mind when getting stock and running sales. A genuinely great guy! The new location is awesome as well, lots of space for events and stock!!

I love coming Cowabunga to shop! The selection of Pokémon cards was incredible, and the staff were super friendly and helpful. They really know their stuff and made it easy to find exactly what I was looking for. Plus, the vibe in the shop is really cool. Definitely my go-to spot for Pokemon, Lorcana, and Magic cards!"

I like to play Pokémon battles there on Saturday. Since the old shop had a roof leak, I’ve been patiently waiting for his new shop to open in the old Shima’s restaurant in Nitro so I can play again. It’s just a really cool atmosphere and the owner is really nice.

If I could give more than five stars I would, and let me explain. First, the owner, Alex, is dedicated, personable, knowledgeable, and honest. He has created and sustained a small business when, let’s be honest, is tough in this state, and even tougher in our area. That’s tantamount to who he is, as a person, and the reason why he has so many loyal customers. Second, the atmosphere. Again, Alex plays a big role in that, but his loyal customers often come in to hang out, play rounds, and even teach the community kids how to play. There’s no judgment if you don’t know what you’re doing, they’ll get you squared away. Lastly, the lasting relationships that can be built there. I began playing Pokémon last fall, having absolutely zero clue what I was doing. I joined and played at a weekly tournament, with nothing more than my Walmart battle box. The other players taught me how to play, made suggestions for my deck to make it better, and made me feel accepted. I say all this to say that while you may think it’s just some little card shop, it’s so much more than that. The fact that the owner is agreeable to allowing anyone who wants to come in and play a round to use his facility should be proof enough. And yes, you may see the same people there all the time- it’s because we are a family.

I've visited this place multiple times because something about it just doesn't add up. I'm not here to start drama or get attention - my profile is public, my picture is there, and I stand by what I say. Every time I've gone, the situation has been the same: the store looks closed, the sign says closed, but the same people are always inside. The owner, kids, and a couple of adults who seem to just hang out there eating outside food. Even on holidays, even when the door is supposed to be locked, the same pattern repeats. I'm not claiming anything illegal - I'm simply saying the setup feels off, and the 4.7-star rating doesn't match what I've personally seen. It makes me question how many of those reviews are genuine. I'm not telling anyone what to think. Go see it for yourself. If your experience is different, great. But based on what I've witnessed repeatedly, something about this business doesn't feel right, and people deserve to know that before trusting the rating.