3/13/08

Games bring families, friends together

by Beckye Randall

Life comes at us fast these days, and most families frantically juggle multiple jobs, sporting events, homework assignments, concerts and conferences. It often seems like there’s no time for dinner table discussions, even though experts tell us those interactions are critical to our children’s success.

Stevanne Auerbach, who has written several books as Dr. Toy, maintains that family game nights are even more important than sharing meals. “Game playing gives parents a context for interacting with their children, even through the difficult teenage years,” said Auerbach.

She’s not talking about computer gaming either, no matter how interactive those programs claim to be. Auerbach recommends board games, those fun-in-a-box games that require two or more players and build skills that include strategizing, taking directions, sequencing, sportsmanship, reading, taking turns and so much more.

Gary Zimmerman, owner of Family Game Store at the Everett Mall, couldn’t agree more. A veteran retailer, Zimmerman had retired from Radio Shack when his mother’s memorial service reminded him of the good times that came from family togetherness. The shock of 9/11 and a rash of school shootings made him even more determined to help families rediscover the value of investing time in one another.

“People say they wish they had more time together,” said Zimmerman, “but there has always been enough time. What is often lacking is the quality of time spent with one another.”

Scheduling a game night with family and friends is a great way to bring people together, whether the focus is on a board game like Trivial Pursuit or Cranium, or on a table game like billiards or air hockey.

Board games have maintained their popularity over the years, and the Family Game Store stocks a wide variety of boxed games. For youngsters Operation, Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders are perennial favorites, along with new games that include Whac-A-Mole and Shrek: Totally Tangled Tales.

Teens and adults can enjoy the ever-popular Yahtzee and Pictionary along with hot new games like Apples to Apples and Route 66. For strategists, classics like Risk and Axis and Allies are available alongside the new award-winning Settlers of Catan.

More than 4,000 games are on the shelves at Family Game Store, grouped into easy-to-find categories that include developmental games, strategy games, classics and games with TV or movie themes.

“To enjoy a family night together, all you need is a table and a great game. For less than $20, you can build lasting memories,” said Zimmerman.

People often come into the store looking for a particular game because they played it at a neighbor’s house and had such a great time. “In reality, the game was just a tool to bring them together,” said Zimmerman, “and the great time comes from just being fully involved with other people.”

To ramp up the fun even more, consider the benefits of adding a pool table to your family room.

“You’ll never have to wonder where your kids are,” said Zimmerman, “because they’ll be hanging out in your game room with all their friends.”

Of course, the decision to purchase a table game requires careful preparation. A standard 8-foot pool table requires a room that’s just over 13 feet wide and nearly 17 feet in length at a minimum. A ping pong table needs 12 feet of space at each end.

“Table games can be installed on floors that aren’t completely level,” said Zimmerman, “like a converted garage. Our installers level the table on delivery, and we’ll make any adjustments that are needed after 30 days.”

Zimmerman is proud of the quality built into the games he carries. “Our quality differentiates us from the box stores,” he said. “Our products are designed to last a generation.”

Family Game Store only sells pool tables made by Golden West Billiards. Zimmerman explained, “This is the only company in the U.S. whose tables are completely made in America. Every piece of wood, every nut and bolt is American-made.”

Prices for pool tables can vary widely, but Zimmerman offers a tip. “All our pool tables are high quality, and they all feature the exact same 3-piece 1-inch slate bed. The difference in price is often determined by the furniture, not the game top. Elaborate carvings and specialty woods will cost more.”

Another budget-wise decision may be to purchase a convertible table that offers both air hockey and pool. Family Game Store also carries ping pong table covers that fit neatly over the top of a full-size pool table to double its use.

“Our goal is really to encourage family values,” said Zimmerman. “Build happy memories and talk to each other while you’re munching on popcorn and having fun. All you need is a table and a couple of friends or family. Any game will do!”

“What makes us unique is that every game in our store requires at least two players,” he continued. “It’s about bringing people together.”

Family Game Store is located in the Steve & Barry’s wing of the Everett Mall, a straight shot from the main entrance into the Food Court area and through the center atrium. Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.familygamestoreandbilliards.com or call (425) 710-9002.