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Gems & Games

Gems & Games

Reviews Summary

The store is widely praised for its friendly, welcoming owners who create a warm atmosphere and go above to help customers. Reviewers highlight fair prices, great deals, and a unique mix of video games, Pokémon cards, and handmade jewelry. Many appreciate the personalized service, including special orders and free gifts. The selection is generally good, though one noted limited options. The owners' passion and genuine care for customers make it a standout spot, often called the best game store in the area. A few minor critiques mention higher prices or store ambiance, but overwhelmingly, visitors love the experience and highly recommend it.

About This Listing

Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

517b Front St

Lynden, Washington 98264

Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 12-6PM
Wednesday 12-6PM
Thursday 12-6PM
Friday 12-6PM
Saturday 12-6PM
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

Honest and informative collectors. Easily my go-to spot in the area. Great selection of cards and games for the family. Unlike OTHER spots in the local area, they don't look to get one over on you, they don't ignore you when you walk in or if they do notice you, they don't they and push their unpopular products on you. Great couple of guys and honest. Gems & Games is the only spot I feel comfortable giving my business in all of Whatcom.

Friendly staff, limited selection, higher than MSRP prices on new items. Store could use an open window or maybe an air freshener. Cool and unique hand made and 3d printed items.

Best Card shop ever! Nice design of shop. How did I not find this place before? They put some cards on the side for me just in case they sold out. What an amazing shop. They are always so nice and helpful. Kirk you the man, keep it up!! Trenton too! I haven't met anyone else but I bet they are just as amazing! I'll definitely be coming to this shop more often. (Maybe to grade some cards???)

Me and my friends stopped in to go to the bathroom and they were just so sweet! They added free stuff onto our order and were overall so helpful and welcoming. They have some Dnd dice which was an awesome surprise. Thanks so much to Kirk who helped us!

The owner gave me a half off because "what matters is you're a gamer... we gotta look out for each other, " and I only had 7 dollars. Top notch, dude.

Best card shop for Pokemon in Whatcom county! Fair prices on singles, organized bulk, and super nice staff.

Stumbled upon this place randomly while In lynden was greeted by super friendly and knowledgeable staff found some awesome items for my daughters to get a 3d printed dragon they made, and a craft for my oldest tons of selection and awesome atmosphere

We just stopped in to go to the bathroom but their welcoming atmosphere and stock of games had us looking around! We ended up buying Just Dance, DnD dice, and a whole Playstation 5! He even threw in a free just dance for the ps5 and a free censor for our xbox. The owner was so conversational and was passionate about his store, his daughter even designs the jewelry and is very talented. Everything is very well priced, SO much better than game stop. If you want a GAME, STOP here!

I recently visited a small town video game store, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. The owner was incredibly friendly and welcoming, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I was thrilled to find a copy of Zelda Majora's Mask, and the owner even offered to assist me in obtaining a copy of Ocarina of Time and a 3DS XL. Their genuine enthusiasm and helpfulness made me feel like a valued customer, and I can't wait to return to this store for all my gaming needs.

REALLY nice, great prices, and gives good money for any games and stuff. Also, who here agrees this is the best gamestore in all of washington? Not even GameStop has 5.0 stars!

I love this place! Combination of jewelry and games is genius. The owner is so friendly and welcoming. This store is so fun and I love going back. Anyone who visits Lynden should check this place out. One of my favorite stores in town.

Very cool shop! I almost didn't believe the sign out front so I walked in and I was immediately greeted and chatting with one of the owners. Super cute earrings and the games section is super cool. I didn't snag any earrings yet, but I bought a couple games!

Kirk and Samantha are wonderful people who have fun selling there products and enjoy talking to the customer, the video game selection is always growing and changing, plus kirk will do his best to find whatever you may want and won't over charge you. Samantha make amazing custom resin jewelry. Be sure to give them a chance.

Best store Ive ever been to, the owner is so sweet and generous. He really is interested in his customers and really cares. I went here with my family and we had a whole conversation about all kind of things, if you visit Lynden I would recommend his store. Thank you for your kindness!!

Went there with my daughter a week ago and the owner and staff were incredibly nice, got some wii games and Pok?mon cards the owner even gave my daughter a cute little gift! Thank you and we will come again!

Great game store, very nice worker at the counter, he's chill and likes to play videogames. I got a great deal on a trade in, highly recommend.

They are pretty cool people and one time a dude brought his whole family into the store

My son's new favorite place for Pok?mon fun.

Y e s I just came in and looked at battle crashers and age of calamity

Great pricing, and friendly staff!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”