Oceanside Entertainment, a staple for board games, books and all things “nerdy,” is expanding its footprint in the qathet region.
Owner Karyne Bailey confirmed that the business has officially acquired High Tide Games, with a planned takeover date of February 1. The move will allow Bailey’s team to introduce new services and gaming experiences previously impossible at the Marine Avenue location.
“Our goal has always been to offer the best selection of items to entertain people in this community,” says Bailey. “When we moved to Powell River, we saw a lack of places to buy used books, puzzles or older video games. We’re here to fill that gap, and do it in a way that feels inclusive and fun.”
While Oceanside Entertainment will remain on Marine, located in the Hindle’s Heritage Building, High Tide Games will keep its own name and identity to maintain “a bit of distinction.”
Some Oceanside stock will eventually move to the High Tide location on Glacier Street, including a full range of Dungeons & Dragons materials, video games and other entertainment products. The biggest change, however, is the ability to finally offer on-site gaming.
“At our Marine Avenue location, the zoning didn’t allow us to have the public upstairs,” explains Bailey. “There were issues with the stairs and no fire escape, so we couldn’t offer in-store gaming the way we wanted. Now, at High Tide Games, we have the space and proper zoning to do it.”
High Tide Games will soon feature both vintage and new consoles, including a PlayStation 5. Customers will be able to pay an hourly rate to try out games before deciding to purchase, or simply enjoy gaming without needing a console at home.
In addition to the new console play area, High Tide Games will continue hosting Magic: The Gathering nights on Sundays and plans to relaunch Dungeons & Dragons play sessions, likely on Tuesdays, once scheduling is finalized.
Bailey’s team is also considering board game nights, puzzle evenings and even birthday party bookings.
“We’re excited to relaunch group events. It’s all about community and bringing people together around their shared interests, whether that’s Magic cards, Dungeons & Dragons, Pokémon or puzzles.”
Even as Oceanside Entertainment takes on this second location, the store has another reason to celebrate; it recently won the Canadian Prestige Award for Best Gaming Store in the Sunshine Coast area for the second consecutive year.
“We have no idea who nominated us, but we’re absolutely thrilled,” says Bailey. “It covers all forms of gaming: board games, card games, video games, murder mystery kits, all of it. It’s wonderful to see the community rally around us, and it tells us we’re doing something right.
“We get repeat customers from Texada, Savary, and even Pender Island. Some people call us Powell River’s ‘nerd shop,’ and we love it. Now we’ll just have two nerd shops to serve people better.”
While Bailey will remain a familiar face at the Marine Avenue store, High Tide Games will be managed day-to-day by two general managers: Ethan Tegtmeier, board games division; and Trevor Stutt, video games division. Both have been trained by Bailey’s team and the previous owner.
“We want people to know that the High Tide Games name is staying, the great events are staying and we’re just adding even more,” explains Bailey. “Whether you want to play Dungeons & Dragons, try out the latest console game, or trade in your old favourites, we’re here for you.”
For more information, call 604.489.3028 or go to facebook.com/oceansideentertainmentbc.
