Just a quick five-minute walk, less than half mile from the University of Central Missouri campus, Warrensburg’s downtown district offers a wide variety of local businesses. This month’s Muleskinner’s Downtown Highlight spotlights establishments specializing in gaming.

  Three stores offer merchandise for any gamer wanting to start a new playthrough: Rock n’ Sports Entertainment, Thompson Productions LLC and Retrograde Charitable Toy and Videogame Museum. 

Rock n’ Sports Entertainment

  Rock n’ Sports Entertainment has been in business since April of 2002 and has become considered a go-to for anyone looking to buy or sell gaming equipment, movies or collectors’ items such as figurines, vinyl records and trading cards.

  “Rock n’ Sports has a friendly atmosphere with a good selection,” said Sam Hunt, a customer.

  “I’m part of the community. I’ve lived in Warrensburg since 1996 and appreciate the long-term support of my business. We know customers by name, know their interests and their needs if they are die-hard collectors. I’ve seen countless kids grow into adults and have their own kids that still share the love of gaming and it continues to bring them by the shop,” said owner Nolan Ellis.

  Rock n’ Sports Entertainment is located at 113 N Holden St. and is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday. 

Thompson Productions LLC

  Thompson Productions LLC has been open for 22 years. Thompson Productions LLC is considered by many patrons a must-stop for all tabletop gaming needs. The store features miniatures, dice, D&D books, board games, trading cards, comic books and puzzles. 

  “We’re basically a family-friendly business. There’s nothing here that would be shameful to Mother to be seen with. And we carry comics, games, figures and model kits and people just come in, they relax and have fun,” said store owner Phillip Thompson.

  Thompson is a UCM alumnus and veteran who wishes to give back to the community.

  “We’re at the point where we can give more back to the community. We’ve done fundraisers and it’s nice to just be able to give back,” said Thompson.

  Thompson Productions LLC is located at 207 N Holden St. and their hours are Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m.

Retrograde Charitable Toy and Videogame Museum 

  Retrograde is “insanely unique,” according to museum volunteer Mathew Edwards. Retrograde has been in operation at its current location for three years at time of press. Featuring a wide selection of vintage arcade cabinets and paraphernalia, this museum and arcade is “something that people could engage with and enjoy,” said Edwards.

  In addition to offering a historical and fun experience, the location also offers a place for socializing, with their weekly Chess Club and high school D&D groups for teens and anyone wanting to build community relationships.

  “Part of our mission is to create community and create not just education, but a third space for people to come together and enjoy the things that they enjoy,” said owner Brian Chamberlin. “Sometimes just helping people to facilitate what it is that they’re into, in order to kind of find their tribe…this entire building is full of every geeky, nerdy childhood wonder that we all love.”

  Retrograde is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4-8 p.m., Friday from 4-10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. at 112 E Market St.