Speaking as the ambivalent adult who drives the kids to this place, I find it utterly bewildering and overwhelming. How many comic books are there? I never dreamed that the world had so many different board games. There are more tables in the back than there are at the elementary school. And every one is full of people, some playing card or board games, others painting tiny figurines. But wait, there's also draft beer?!?
If I ever need to get a present for a nerd, I will be know where to go to get it.
Samuel Parnau
Sep 14, 2023
5
I wish I lived close enough to this store to shop in person. So far all of my online experiences with this shop have been fantastic. All the cards I ordered have been in described condition or better, packaged nicely, and delivered quickly. I would recommend this shop to anyone looking for an alternative to the abomination that TCGplayer has become. Next time I’m in the area, I’ll definitely be stopping in. Keep up the good work!
Jacob Kim
Sep 7, 2023
5
I have been to many LGS (Local Game Stores) and Atomic Empire is EASILY in my Top 3.
They offer a wide array of board games and they merchandise new ones fairly often. Their pricing on board games cannot be beat! Whenever I have my siblings come to town, they love to come here and pick up a game to take home.
They serve beer which is also a huge plus for adults. There is usually something good on tap, as well as in cans.
I am primarily a Magic player and the play area is quite large. They have nice tables and chairs here as well - no plastic white folding tables / folding chairs here!
I'm not much of a comic book guy but it appears they have a pretty wide selection of comics to choose from.
The discord community is fairly active so you will want to join up if you want to stay up to date on any of the latest communications / updates from AE.
All in all, I highly recommend this place if you are a gamer.
andrew wright
Aug 20, 2023
5
Atomic is hands down the best game store in North Carolina, no questions asked. The staff is always helpful and the store is always well stocked and clean. If they don't have something you need, they can get in it matter of days - not to mention they have prices that are usually 20% off many other retailers.
If you live in the triangle and haven't been to Atomic, do yourself a favor and get there.
Javier Gil-Ceballos
Aug 7, 2023
5
Haven't been personally to the store but ordered online for the first time recently. Experienced a technical error when placing the initial order as a guest and deciding later to create an account (instead of the recommended other way around), but customer service responded quickly and solved the minor issue. Item ordered had a better price than other big name places. Shipped fast and arrived safe and sound. Would do business again.
Meara Ivins
Aug 5, 2023
5
Fantastic games and comic book store! Large, clean, and spacious game room. Unisex bathrooms. BEER ON TAP!! Friendly and helpful staff too 😁
This is a great place to hang out and play games with friends.
Kristen McClara
Aug 5, 2023
5
Visited here during my stay in Durham for work training. This place surprised me with the number of board game options they have! I saw games I'd never even heard of before! Huge board game selection with quality games. Everything from heavy Euros to simple dice games; this place has it all! Awesome little spot if you're looking for board games of all kinds. The checkout clerk was so friendly and excited to be there and help answer any questions. Can't wait to visit again on my next trip to NC!
Andrew Kellerhals
Jul 26, 2023
5
These guys are great! I am 40 years old and know pretty much nothing about gaming. The guys here were able to assist me in finding special MTG cards for my daughter's birthday with the minimal information I had to give. I would definitely recommend any parents trying to find a gamer kid a gift to check them out.
Robbie
Jul 21, 2023
5
Atomic Empire totally nailed it with fast shipping and my comics arrived in excellent condition. Plus, their subscription service is great – I can pre-order my favorite titles, and I don't pay until they actually ship them out. Their website is super easy to use too. Definitely sticking with these guys for my future comic orders!
Paul Braun
Jul 15, 2023
5
Atomic Empire has a great range of games, comics and other items. Spacious, open game area with refreshments including good beer selection. Staff are very friendly and helpful. They offer fair prices for buying / selling Magic cards and hold regular gaming events.
Owlboy _
May 30, 2023
5
Such an amazing store!!! Loads of figurines & dice, reasonably priced; huge selection of games & indie comics, too, as well as a great gaming space & lots of demo board games as well. Lovely staff. Best game shop I’ve ever been to. And also conveniently close to an excellent asian grocery store.
Nicodemous
Apr 24, 2023
5
Awesome Hobby Shop! Loads of miniatures and any and everything you need for them. Some so large I wouldn't even all them by that name. A wall full of board games and plenty of room in the back to play them all or host multiple DND sessions! Great place to come and experience in the Triangle area! Largest board game and miniature selection ive seen in NC.
Emily Combs
Apr 6, 2023
5
Strongly recommend shopping with Atomic! I love that they carry local games as well as all the big names. I'm a pretty casual gamer so I always look forward to finding something new here. They're so much more than games, though! And you can shop online if you don't have time to stop in or don't live nearby. (I'd recommend visiting the store because the staff is amazing and it's like walking into game heaven. Plus, opportunities for events n' stuff.)
TheRisingOni
Dec 30, 2022
5
My go-to spot for anything MTG related. I go so often that I’m sure the employees know my email by heart. Great selection of cards and the website is amazing.
Although, one thing I would change about their website is adding a payment option or two. One for cash or “pay at counter” option, so that way anyone wanting to split the order with cash and card, or however they so choose.
brandy amorosi
Dec 20, 2022
5
I haven't been in the store but I ordered games from their website. I wanted to leave a comment as the customer service was EXCELLENT. My order included a game that was on pre-order and I realized that was delaying my shipment (they ship all games together). I reached out to separate the shipment and they quickly made the adjustment. I got my two other games just a few days later! I'll definitely shop from here again.
Ivey Redding
Dec 7, 2022
5
Atomic Empire is an amazing store and a great place to hang out. Many items are discounted from MSRP. They have tons of space in the back for gaming and plenty of games/mats/terrains available for use in-store. There are several active leagues and they hold regular events for various games. If you want comics, board games, tabletop games, or to find a gaming group, you will not be disappointed with Atomic Empire.
Jennifer Clay
Dec 7, 2022
5
I stumbled across the website when looking for a specific board game for Christmas, but was delighted by the selection of games and graphic novels! It was easy to find what I was looking for and even some perfect items I didn’t know existed before. I’m excited to give my items as gifts - everything looks great and arrived really fast. I’m so delighted to have found a shop like this to support - even if I don’t live nearby. Thanks guys!
Tori Barker
Dec 3, 2022
5
I am beaming after leaving this shop. The staff were so kind and helpful. Their selection is amazing, and the set up is well organized. I am so glad I found this gem!
