Rocktown Games in south Harrisonburg has been a local favorite for two years. Opened by Josh and Eric Mitri in 2022, the shop offers a vast collection of video games spanning from modern consoles to the classic Atari 2600. Games and consoles are available used or new, providing a unique shopping experience.
Where Old and New Digital Worlds Converge
Gaming Variety at Rocktown Games
The store's shelves are stacked high with video games, ranging from modern consoles to the Atari 2600. Games and consoles are sold in various forms, including used without packaging or new in original boxes. This diverse selection attracts both local gamers and visitors from multiple states.For example, the retro stuff sells exceptionally well. Everyone loves nostalgia and revisiting their childhood through eight-bit heaven. It's a place where families can bond over gaming. Parents help their children discover older games, and children help parents rediscover their youth through gaming.Gaming as a Bonding Experience
Families regularly visit the shop, using it as a bonding experience. One family would buy consoles and engage in console modding. The father taught his son how to take apart electronics, creating a unique and cool bonding moment.Another customer, Michael Knupp, 45, of Harrisonburg, turns to gaming to revisit happy memories. Having a rough childhood, gaming brings back positivity. He often comes to the store just to look at the stuff, even if he doesn't buy anything.Meeting Gaming Demands
To meet the demand for old consoles and games, Rocktown Games keeps a stock of items like Game Boys, Game Cubes, and PlayStations. Everything is made sure to be functional and have everything a gamer needs before being put on the shelf.Daniel Owens, 20, of Stanley, made a special trip to the store to buy PSP games. Since most stores don't carry them anymore, eBay is the only option. But at Rocktown Games, he found a great collection and bought about seven or eight games.Community Involvement
Passion drives Rocktown Games and the Mitri brothers. They are regularly involved in Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance events like Skeleton Fest and will be at the upcoming Winter Wonderfest. They also partner with local businesses like James Madison University and restaurants like Mashita and Beards and Broads to host video game competitions.This community focus allows gamers to come together and enjoy the world of gaming. The Mitris hope to continue partnering with local businesses to host more tournaments and events in the future.