Blogs
Nikhil Singh

Author

  • Published: May 07 2025 01:17 PM
  • Last Updated: May 29 2025 11:50 AM

EB Games returns to Canada under new ownership, focusing on community, nostalgia, and expanded product offerings, reviving the beloved brand after a GameStop rebranding.


Newsletter

wave

EB Games is Back! Seriously?

Okay, this is wild. Remember EB Games? That iconic Canadian gaming store? The one with the awesome posters and the slightly overwhelming smell of new plastic? Well, get this: they're back! After getting rebranded to GameStop in 2021, they've somehow, miraculously, reclaimed their original name. Honestly, who saw that coming?

A Canadian Comeback Story

It's all thanks to Stephan Tetrault, a big name in the toy industry (he founded Imports Dragon and co-owns McFarlane Toys). He bought GameStop Canada from the struggling US parent company. This wasn't just a business deal; it's a full-on resurrection. Tetrault's plan isn’t just to sell games; he wants to create a real community hub, a Canadian gaming mecca.

Nostalgia is the Secret Weapon: Let's be honest, the EB Games name holds a special place in the hearts of many Canadians. Those memories are powerful, and they’re smartly leveraging that.

More Than Just Games: Expect a much bigger selection than before. Think collectibles, pop culture stuff, and all the gaming accessories your heart desires. They're clearly aiming to appeal to a wider range of gaming fans.

In-Store Fun: They’re planning more events and interactive stuff in stores, building a real sense of community among gamers. This isn't your grandma’s video game store.

A Digital Facelift: The website's getting a major upgrade, and their social media presence will be much more active. This will make online shopping way easier and improve customer service.

Jim Tyo, the President of EB Games Canada, put it perfectly: "We want EB Games Canada to be more than a store—we want it to be the hub for gaming and fandom culture across Canada."

GameStop's Exit Strategy

GameStop Corp. selling its Canadian operations is part of a bigger picture. They’ve been struggling with declining sales in physical stores and have pulled out of other international markets. GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen’s announcement on X (formerly Twitter) was pretty blunt about the challenges, mentioning high taxes and other sociopolitical factors. You know how sometimes things just spiral? It kinda felt like watching a slow-motion trainwreck.

But hey, their loss is definitely Canada's gain.

A New Era for Canadian Gamers

This isn't just a simple rebranding. It's a promise to reconnect with Canadian gamers on a deeper level. They’re focusing on community, expanding their products, and improving the whole in-store experience. All 185 stores across Canada are getting a makeover; think new signs, a revamped website, and a much more active online presence. This is a total transformation.

Even EB Games Australia is getting in on the excitement, taking pre-orders for the new Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet sets for EB World Plus members. That’s a pretty good indication of the renewed energy around the brand.

The Future of EB Games

The return of EB Games is huge for the Canadian gaming scene. Under Tetrault's leadership, they have a real shot at success. They're using nostalgia, community, and a forward-thinking approach. It'll be interesting to see how they do in the ever-changing world of gaming, especially balancing brick-and-mortar stores with the growing online market. This is a new chapter for Canadian gaming—one that could revitalize the in-person gaming experience for both old fans and a whole new generation.

Also Read:

FAQ

EB Games' website features a store locator to help you find the closest location. Check their site for the most up-to-date information on store openings and addresses across Canada.

EB Games will offer a wide selection of new and retro video games for various consoles and PC, catering to diverse gaming preferences. Check their online store for current listings.

Yes, EB Games is focusing on nostalgia marketing, so they will likely offer a range of retro gaming consoles and accessories. Check their website for current inventory.

Yes, the EB Games online store is open for Canadian customers to browse and purchase video games, electronics, and more.

While retaining the beloved brand, the new EB Games emphasizes community building and expanded product offerings, beyond what was previously available under GameStop’s ownership.

Expect a range of electronics and gadgets alongside video games, possibly including gaming peripherals, headphones, and other tech accessories. Check their online and in-store selections.

EB Games is aiming to foster a strong sense of community through in-store events, online interactions, and by creating a welcoming environment for gamers of all levels.

Their strategy focuses on nostalgia, community building, expanded product lines (including electronics), and a strong online presence to recapture the Canadian market.

Likely yes! Check their website and in-store for details on pre-ordering new video game releases. It's a common practice for video game retailers.

Many video game retailers offer trade-in programs. It's highly probable that EB Games will have a similar program; check their website or contact a store for details.

Search Anything...!