Calling all gamers. Basingstoke and Deane is a great place for all things gaming!

Whether you're a board game whizz, a PC gaming pro or just love a good old-fashioned giant Jenga battle in the garden, there's something here for you. We’ve given you a run down, perfect for if you are looking to try something new, find a local supplier for your hobby or just want to find out what’s on your doorstep.

Get supplies

The Gaming Den is located on London Street and sells board games, cards and miniatures. The staff are super knowledgeable so pop in and browse the shelves. You’ll find Warhammer Basingstoke on Potters Walk just by Festival Place. Here you can pick up miniatures, books and paint supplies. Kushti Comics in Festival Place is your one stop shop for all things retro from classic toys and gaming to Pokemon and comics.

Order online from Matchlock Games, based in Oakley. They supply miniatures, paint and accessories. Firestorm Cards, also based in Basingstoke, specialises in Singles for Magic the Gathering and Dice Masters. They are the UK's largest stockists of Warcraft Loot Cards and have table top games too.

You can buy consoles, games and accessories together with board games at GAME in Festival Place. Or buy, sell and exchange games at CEX in The Malls.

Meet fellow gamers or play with friends

The Gaming Den host games on a weekly basis including Star Wars X Wing and Tabletop Wargames. You don’t need to book to attend, just turn up and have fun!

The Dice Tower is another gem on London Street. This welcoming board game cafe is the perfect place to gather your friends and family for a game night. They have a huge selection of games and even run regular events, including intro sessions for newbies wanting to try Dungeons & Dragons. Their menu includes pizzas, nachos, hot dogs and more. You can book a table via their website.

Pokemon fans can join the Kushti Comics Pokemon League, turn up with your decks and buy a booster pack - could you catch a rare and powerful Pokémon inside?

Along with the events at The Gaming Den and The Dice Tower, you’ll find The Bastion Gaming Club which meets at Viables Community Centre. It's a great way to connect with other gamers and discover new favourites.

Firestorm Cards has a gaming centre with events that run during the week.

Nintendo fans should check out Nintendo Basingstoke who run monthly events related to all things Nintendo, such as Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Splatoon Tournaments and events always featuring select games each month. 

If Scrabble is more your thing then Tadley Library has a group to join on Thursdays and Chineham Library has a group that meets on Tuesdays. You’ll also find a number of U3A groups that meet at Tadley Library too including Rummikub, cards and crib.

Basingstoke Chess Club has two sections. The main club meets every Wednesday from mid September to the end of May each year from 7pm. A junior section meets just before this from 5.30pm. They welcome all standards of player from beginner to grand master.

Family fun

Families can enjoy games together at Basingstoke Discovery Centre. Every third Saturday of the month members of Basingstoke Chess Club is on hand to provide instruction and hints to new and up and coming players at the Family Chess Club. Or enjoy board games together every second Saturday of the month. You’ll find Saturday Family Fun Board Games at Tadley Library every week from 2pm to 4pm, or Game on at Chineham Library every fourth Saturday of the month. Drop in and have some fun.

Step back in time and visit the Milestones Pier where you can stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy vintage arcade games from claw grabbers and shove pennies, plus Pac Man and table football.

Quiz Nights

Tuesday night is quiz night in Basingstoke town centre. You’ll find quizzes at The Dice Tower and Brewdog. You can join a classic pub quiz night on a Wednesday at The Holly Blue for teams of up to six or on a Thursday at the Queens College Arms in Tadley.

PC gamers, don't worry, we haven't forgotten you!

The Esports Arena at Queen Mary's College can be hired for gaming parties. They also sometimes run sessions during school holidays, so keep an eye out!

Planning a party and need some giant-sized fun?

Based in Basingstoke, Maximum Play has a fantastic selection of giant garden games to hire, from classic Connect 4 and Jenga to hilarious Space Hopper races! Perfect for adding a touch of excitement to any party, wedding or gathering.

So there you have it, gamers! Basingstoke and Deane is bursting with options for all your gaming needs. From board game cafes and friendly clubs to giant garden games and esports, there's something for everyone. So grab your controllers, gather your crew, and get ready to have some epic fun!

 Updated May 2024