I've grown to like Legions over the past few years. I'm by no means a regular, but I do stop in at least once or twice a month to play games.
Legions is located on the lower level of a strip mall; it's location actually lets it sprawl a bit, so there's a lot of room there. The topside entrance cuts immediately to a giant stairwell that also has a spiraling ramp and elevator that lead to the retail/game space. (As of my writing this review, I think only the ramp is serviceable.) I mention this because the weird, off-kilter tone of the entrance carries over to the retail/gaming space: there are weird passages that wind around, the storage space also doubles as gaming areas, and there are lots of odd steps leading to platforms and balconies. As other reviewers have noted, the place is dark and dank, but that's mainly because it's in a basement. The men's bathroom is also moderately gross, though it seems like the staff at least try to keep it clean.
As I've mentioned before, there's a lot of space here--about half of it is dedicated to miniature gaming, and at any given time you'll find folks playing Warhammer or Flames of War or something else (I'm not a miniatures gamer, otherwise I'd be more specific!). There're also a ton of folks playing Magic (or other CCGs and LCGs) during business hours. If you want to play some sort of pick-up game, chances are there will be a table or two for you (even if it is tucked away in a back corner). I usually go to play RPGs and there's always room.
There is a lot of merchandise at Legions. The focus is on miniatures and CCGs, but also a fair number of board games (and expansions), and some RPG books. Which makes sense--most of the regulars spend money on the former, hence the shelf space. I mainly shop for board games there; it's hard for game stores to beat online prices, but Legions at least gives some discount from MSRP on products. There have been a few cases where I got an item for the same or less than Amazon.
The folks working there are often friendly, but it depends on who you talk to. Regulars are almost always gathered around the register, and you can hear lively banter from time to time. Sometimes it's *really* lively--I tend to think good employees are careful about their word choice, and I've been surprised at some of the language employees have used in front of kids under the age of 5. But these cases were infrequent. Some of the staff are really friendly and knowledgeable, and are quick to greet you and offer help when you step in. Others just goof off on the computer their whole shift. I also feel like there is a general stigma against people who aren't dumping their entire paycheck on miniatures. I've try to buy stuff every visit (yes, something more expensive than a drink), but I tend to get scowls from the regulars and some of the staff. Oh well--the friendly employees are cool enough to make up for it!
Overall, while the place isn't perfect I still dig it quite a bit. read more
