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Review of Peninsula Games, Fair Haven NJ

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Our 3rd stop on our LGS jaunt was to Peninsula Games in Fair Haven, NJ. It was getting to be dark outside by this time, so we knew we may not be visiting these stores at the most lively times. 

Address: 775 River Rd, Fair Haven, NJ 07704

Website: peninsulagamesnj.com

Selection

Peninsula Games has a decent selection of Magic sets, Magic Secret Lairs, and board games. Their selection of Magic singles was robust with several well-organized binders with staples and cards of interest. 

"Their Warhammer selection seems somewhat eclectic and random. There wasn't a clear focus on newer or older figures, but not enough of either to cover the full gamut completely. Their Warhammer products are heavily focused on 40k with a lack of AoS." -Hskae

Cleanliness

Peninsula is a small store, and opposed to other newer stores, you can feel the history of the 4 years they've been there. I certainly wouldn't say the store is dirty per se, but its far from immaculate either. Peninsula has a very 'lived-in' feel. Their organization was clearly workable, but I'll admit I felt a little cramped. This may be due to an older building and poor use of space, however. 

Friendliness

The staff at Peninsula were pretty placid when we entered, clearly focused on building or painting figures. When we engaged them, however, they were very friendly. I appreciate being allowed to peruse without pressure. When asked about singles they offered their expansive selection of singles binders for us to browse. You can tell the associate who we were mostly talking to works well as a team with the owner who was working in the back. 

Play Space/Events

To our count, Peninsula has 3 tables set up for games and events. I don't know how else they would arrange their space, but the table setup seemed slightly awkward to me. But hey, you have to work with the space you have. 

Halfway through our visit two patrons who were clearly regulars entered and got settled at the store. The familiarity and casualness with which they were greeted was impressive. They set his stuff down, said they thought they should get some food, and left. Clearly, Peninsula is their Third Place. 

I might feel a little cramped to attend a pre-release at Peninsula, but I cannot say I don't think I would have fun. 

Value

Despite having a large selection of Magic singles for various formats, I was slightly disappointed to hear they base their prices off Channel Fireball, which is, in our experience, consistently higher than TCGPlayer market prices. 

You could find deals on certain items, however Warhammer and board games were typically MSRP. Magic packs were sold for what's expected.

Final Thoughts

Peninsula Games gives me the impression that it is especially beloved by its regulars, even if it doesn't seem to be all that impressive to someone just passing through, like we are. At the end of the day, however, an LGS is built on community and loyalty, which I have no doubt Peninsula has from its local patrons. 

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