MV Games offers hundreds of board games and space to play

by Michele Collins

A new game store opened in Northfield that is not only stocked with board games but also offers the opportunity for game players to socialize and make friends out from behind screens.

According to owner Mike Vartorella, the new MV Games, located at 10545 Northfield Rd., offers all types of board games, card games and tabletop games. 

“We have four tables to play games on. We are going to offer special game nights where players can gather to play games like Dungeons and Dragons, for example, and we will even have some nights where new players can learn by playing with a more experienced player,” Vartorella said.

Once he determines what kinds of games his customers would like to compete in, Vartorella also plans to host game tournaments.

MV Games took over the former veterinary clinic in the fall, and Vartorella knocked down six walls to open up the space. He then added shelving, flooring and renovated the building into what he considered a comfortable spot to play board games.

“We want this to be a place where people come to learn about new games, buy their favorites and meet others who are also into games,” he said. “I like to tell patrons we are a place to unplug from traditional video games, and actually play games with others face to face.”

He added that so far, that formula has worked.

“We opened in January, and we have regulars now. People who come in and play, and then they might all go out to dinner together afterwards,” Vartorella said. “That is exactly the type of atmosphere I was going for.”

He said the store currently has hundreds of games available for purchase, with prices ranging from just $5 for card games, up to $200 for the most expensive, elaborate board game.

“We have one board game that literally weighs 20 pounds, it has so much in the box,” he said with a laugh.

The store has popular games from franchises like Pokémon, Magic: the Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Disney, as well as games from both the United States and abroad. 

Vartorella originally opened a board game store in September 2024 in Twinsburg, which closed in 2025. He said he is excited about the new MV Games location and renovated space.“I hope that people of all ages will come in and take a look. They can look at games for family game nights, for when extended family come in for the holidays, or as a way to bring friends together,” said Vartorella. “My staff and I will help you find just the right game to play. And once you find one game, I hope you come back again and again for new board game options.”

Photo caption: Mike Vartorella (r) does business with a customer in his store, which has four tables for customers to play games. Photo submitted.