InStock Games - Sherman, Texas

Ganesh C.

I played in a cEDH tournament on March 22nd and wanted to share a clear and honest account of what happened that day.

In Round 3, three of us at a table including myself wanted to draw the game so we could grab lunch since there was no break built into the tournament schedule and some of us needed food for medical reasons. After a brief discussion, the fourth player also agreed. Anyone familiar with cEDH knows that when three players want a draw, it usually ends up happening one way or another. However, about 30 minutes after we had all left, the fourth player went to the store owner and claimed he was bullied into the draw. This was surprising, as he had been given several chances to decline and play the game. The issue, however isn't really with the but instead how the store owner handled the situation.

When we returned from lunch, the judge pulled the three of us aside to get our side of the story and determine whether there had been any unsportsmanlike conduct. The judge handled things very professionally, and I have nothing but respect for how he managed it. He calmly asked us what had happened, and we all took turns explaining our perspective. Then the store owner interrupted. From the start, he seemed angry, but then he began directing his frustration at one of my friends (a young woman) who was part of the game that drew. The owner started aggressively questioning her, trying to twist her words and manipulate her into saying she bullied the fourth player. I truly don’t believe she did anything wrong as she was extremely nice to the 4th player.

It escalated quickly, the store owner kept raising his voice and talking over her until he was outright yelling. Watching a 70 year old man shout at a young woman over a card game was the last thing I expected when I signed up for that event. She then broke down in tears, but managed to compose herself and finish speaking with the judge after a couple minutes. In the end, the judge concluded that no one had acted improperly, and no penalties were issued.

After the event, a few of us decided to leave honest reviews about our experience. Weeks later, the store owner sent one of the players a bizarre, unhinged message on Yelp. He also banned us from the store, which I honestly don’t mind, but it does mean that the three of us who earned invites to the Timetwister tournament (each worth around $100) are being denied our prizes, despite having done nothing wrong and earning them fairly.

Leland

I've been a regular member for ~4 years now. Garrison (the bald owner) and David have been great to hang out with, though Garrison can get some getting used to haha. He's a shrewd businessman.

I only play Warhammer there, and it has considerably grown in space and stock, and has terrain 3D printed for every table. The community is cool just to hang and talk Warhammer with, though it may be awkward for new people to just go in the back and say hi. We're always welcoming of new players and proxy-models, especially at Warhammer Wednesday.

The concession food served by Charity in the very back is very cheap, and honestly I doubt they are getting any profit from it. It's unhealthy but sooo good. She's a sweet heart.

Shrek, K. O. O.

Store owner is efficient, and was fair in handling a problem where a group from out of town Attempted to delegate a draw before a match even began in a tournament. Cheater was disqualified tournament players were happy. Hopefully the group of 3 or 4 that came to that one trying scummy tactics won't come back. Store clerks were quick and receptive to issues at hand and managed a Store front of 30 people shopping quickly and easily 10/10 solid service. Never once had a problem in the year and a half of shopping here.

Kai S.

Store owner banned 3 players from store and revoked time twister invitational over drawing a game. Judge had ruled no foul play and that it was a legitimate draw; store owner insists that player 4 was bullied into a draw. Upon talking with all 4 players and other players within that event, it’s clear player 4 has been given multiple opportunities to say that would like the play the game which they declined and instead agreed to draw. Drawing is part of cedh and this is a big abuse of power by the store owner. Upon further investigation the store owner began yelling at one of the players within that pod to the point of tears from the player for the unjust accusation. Terrible unprofessional behavior from the store owner. I have already reached out to wizards about the actions of this store owner and how they treat players. I would HIGHLY avoid doing business and participating in this stores events.

Cherry C.

I dont usually review poor situations because I feel like every business deserves a chance. Given the brush off, terrible customer service attitude of the owner, I dont feel that way about InStock Games. During my stay I repeatedly heard them speak poorly about another store owner and several of their customers. Absolutely poor performance.

Kevin B.

I’ve been a regular here for years, been coming before Garrison even opened the store. Best selection of Mtg singles out of any store I’ve been to. It’s been great to see the store expand and grow, will always support this shop!

Heather A.

Instock is the best card store we have ever been to! Many of my family members frequent here to play games with fellow community members and friends! They always have the perfect gift to give all your gaming friends/family! Always a welcoming smile when you come and go! They are knowledgeable and helpful. If you are looking for a great place to play or purchase Instock is your place to be!

Robert D.

I believe this will be the first review I've ever left in my 26 years.
I fell in love with this place and watched it grow from a small shop to something beautiful and it persists in that direction with its foot on the gas.

The staff, the food, the Friday nights and the events are all held with the intent to make you feel at home and welcome anytime you enter.

The bad reviews referring to the "bald guy."
It's simple, The prices are already low, the staff are already as kind as can be, don't take advantage or act like they're unintelligible in magic and you're fine.
These gentleman know magic, they know customer service and are impeccable at both.

If you're thinking of going to a shop, by all means, make this one your home because it's been my home for a good long minute now.
I met friends who've I've known and become close with for several years now due to the atmosphere this shop has made.

You have all my thanks and love staff at instock games.