Maximum Distractions truly houses maximum distractions--so much so that I spent at least an hour…read moredigging through boxes to see what I could unearth. There were a good amount of back issues I was interested in, but so many weren't bagged and boarded and were definitely beginning to show some shelf wear. The bigger issues, though, is that nothing is clearly organized by series--or even publisher. There had clearly been some attempts to sort things out, but without any major success. It was frustrating to say the least. The owner was nice and happy to talk to you, and his interactions with other customers of varying sorts were very friendly as well. Sadly, there was a very offering radio station playing the whole time I was there detailing 9/11 conspiracies and whether or not Hunter Biden should be in jail. The owner said it was really just 'background noise,' but it sort of started to weird me out a bit. Regardless, i found a few books I wanted and decided to head out. At checkout, I paid with cash and wasn't charged any additional sales tax--which I always appreciate.

Pretty loaded with back issues. Cool place though somewhat disorganized. The owner definitely will…read morehelp you find something. I asked for prison related comics and he had a few recs like some Amazing Spiderman issues and some comic called The Prisoner.

Today I had the worst, most embarrassing experience I've ever had. I had a worker there yell across…read morethe store at me to stop flipping the comics around. Ti be nicer to the books. Ive been collecting for 40+ years. I know how to flip through books. I wasn't being rough with them. At the end ofvthe day, she can say whatever she wants to whomever she wants. Where i take issue, is the yelling across the store at me, and embarrassing me in front if other patrons, when at the root if it, I did nothing wrong. This was the worst service of any kind I've ever experienced. The staff there couldn't have been more rude and unprofessional to someone. I've been coming here for 15 years. Never again, and I don't recommend this place to anyone else.

Wow! Tucked inside the Golf Mill Mall near the movie entrance is a gem - one of a kind gamers…read moreparadise that sells comics, games, action figures and best of all holds card and game tournaments in the back of the store. It's really a gamers paradise and you can find here rare comic books, vintage games and toys that will delight both children and adults. The store is neatly organized, and very well lit - qualities conducive to a good treasure hunt.

A very friendly local shop with a large amount of collectibles. I love coming here when I'm looking…read moreto sell some games or cards and buying some single Pokémon cards or packs. There's a little of something for everyone here. I usually see the same staff faces and they're always helpful and welcoming. If you're a collector at any level, definitely stop by. I believe they even had a couple labubus if that's what you're looking for!

This place is exactly what's wrong with many collecting hobbies. Yea, the selection here is pretty…read moregood. That's mostly because the prices are terrible--worse than eBay and Facebook marketplace scalpers. Case in point: there's a pokemon illustrated set that just came out. It's $17. You can still get lucky at retailers and it'll be restocked. Here, just 2 days after launch, they're selling for $50. Just nuts. I guess it's clear this isn't a "card shop," it's a scalpers storefront. Don't go here looking for Lorcana--guessing the margins are too low. Except for their singles, which they sell for $2-4....crazy pricing for Lorcana. Anyways, i won't be back. Will have to continue my search for a card shop that's ethical and somewhat reasonable. --------- Edit in response to business reply: 1) i agree conversation could go a long way. But when your pricing on a brand new Pokémon set (which doesn't have a set market yet) is already 3x MSRP, what productive conversation can happen? It's just a straight up gouge. I'm not naive to expect to get everything at MSRP, but i think 3x markup 2 days post launch is unreasonable. 2) i did ask about Lorcana. I was told you "don't carry much" and "didn't have any right now." 3) you seem to be implying that you're aware prices are high and can then be negotiated lower. If that's how you want to do it that's your prerogative, just understand that's offputting for new customers. It's hard to want to establish a relationship and have a conversation when the first impression is being taken advantage of. And when your response to pricing questions is "well the hobby is thriving!" I don't think that's off base.

1/17/26 Great experience at Graham Crackers Comics. Awesome selection, great prices, well organized…read morestore, friendly and very knowledgeable staff who are happy to help without pressure. Whether you're browsing or looking for something specific, this is a must stop spot for comic fans in Chicago. Highly recommend!

We love this shop. It's a quick and simple drop-in to find your stuff…read more Fyi - Depending the day, wait times might get crazy.

Recently came here with a few colleagues on a lunch break since they come to the store every now…read moreand then. I hardly ever go to a comic book store but this place was really great. This place features a large array of comics primarily but they also feature pokemon plush toys, one of a Kind pins and collector items to name a few. Staff here was very friendly and they let us peacefully shop around the store. Prices here are fair, plenty of regulars come by as well. Overall, not a bad place to come to.

I'm a total comic book noob, but I went in and asked about a specific series I'm interested in and…read morewas quickly taken to the area and explained what's what and where different things are. Super nice staff and a great selection. Had a very pleasant conversation with the man working the register, he was so nice! Definitely will be back soon.

It has been some time so I stopped in to Challengers Comics, I just finished working in the area,…read moreso I made my stop on the way home. I was greeted as soon I walked in, very friendly staff which is plus. The sele are is extensive and the price point is great, so much to choose from I did pick up a few items. I will make another stop very soon. Thank you Challengers Comics.

I have been visiting Challengers Comics + Conversation since their opening day and to this date,…read morethis is my spot. From day one the service, the selection and the whole atmosphere is something that I haven't found anywhere else! The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, they don't walk around behind you watching your every move like they do in most of the other places I have visited in Chicago and other states. They have a great selection of books, collectables, art, large selection of older comic books at great prices, love attending their events as much as possible, never miss the anniversary, only missed their FREE COMIC BOOK DAY once, I was out of the country! I could not say enough great things about MY FAVORITE COMIC BOOK STORE!

Great comic book store with a lot of back issues. Sasha the owner was very helpful and answered all…read moremy questions and helped me look for some books I had trouble finding. I'll definitely be coming back.

Cinegram is wonderful. I visited here with my son, who is starting to be interested in super…read moreheroes, and the staff was friendly, welcoming, and very helpful. They guided him to some age-appropriate selections of Batman graphic novels, and kindly discussed some of the other super heroes that they have and he likes. The store is clean and well-organized, and I can't say enough nice things about the staff. My son was asking when we could go back before we got home, and we will be back soon!

Great service. Really good selection with lots of $1 books and $5 trades. Well layed outread more

I was in the search of a new comic book store after we moved. Buying digital comic books is…read moreconvenient and all, but it's soul sapping as well. There is something about giving your hard-earned money to Amazon that is cold. Comic books are anything but cold. I walked into this shop and immediately knew I would be setting up my pull list here. Joe was super helpful and kind. The subscription service gives you a 20% off for all trades which is a great value, better than Amazon. I can't wait for Wednesday.