An Easy Way to Relax: Board to Death Games

Declan O’Connor | Writer 

 Any customer can play any game on the back shelf for free at Board to Death Games in Emmaus.

Located along Main Street in Emmaus is a tabletop/board game shop with a cozy atmosphere, Board to Death Games. Customers can come inside to try and buy new games at a much lower price compared to similar shops. 

Board to Death Games consistently draws in a small group of regulars who try out the many different board games available for customers to play (for free) in-store. 

Thomas Boone, the owner of the store, says, “People want to have fun,” “[Tabletop games] are always fun with friends, and they really bring a sense of community.” 

Boone isn’t alone in this opinion, either. 

“Some of the best times I’ve had with my friends were spent playing board games,” says avid tabletop game enthusiast Calvin Niewind. “I’ve been playing for over ten years, and I don’t think it’s gotten old once.” 

The passion at Board to Death Games is clear, as Boone encourages new players to try tabletop games for the first time at his weekly Board Game Night School. 

“The hardest thing about this type of game is getting people to try it.” 

This event is held every Friday, with more events to come. 

These events bring customers and locals together as noted by Boone, with both new and old customers being drawn to not just Boone’s business, but the stores surrounding it. 

“I’m new to the area, but I love it. The locals here are all incredibly kind,” he said. “Talking to the people is my favorite part of the job.”

Board to Death Games is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Wednesday to Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.