Hundreds Brave Cold for Black Friday at Victoria Gaming Store

The gaming store Epic Games and More in Victoria, Canada, witnessed a substantial turnout on Black Friday, as hundreds of eager shoppers lined up for the much-anticipated sales event. The doors opened promptly at 9 a.m. on November 25, 2025, but many began camping outside as early as Friday evening, showcasing their enthusiasm for the latest releases, particularly the new Pokémon card collection.

Three friends, Sam Perkins, Justin Wei, and Kiyen Glover, set up camp outside the store on Friday night, equipped with camp chairs and blankets. According to store owner Nick Briand, their early arrival was a first for the store. “This is the earliest that they’ve shown up for sure,” Briand noted, expressing admiration for their dedication. The trio received complimentary breakfast from the store as a gesture of goodwill.

Perkins reflected on their experience, stating, “It wasn’t that bad,” though Wei added, “It was a little cold.” The friends managed only about two hours of sleep during the night. Perkins mentioned that the noise from passing vehicles disrupted their rest, particularly around 4 a.m.

As the morning approached, an estimated few hundred customers formed a line that wound around Hillside Avenue and down Nanaimo Road. The excitement was palpable as the store prepared for its weekend-long Black Friday sale, featuring special promotions and a blow-out table for shoppers.

Each friend was prepared to spend around $150 on Pokémon cards, eager to get their hands on the latest collection. When asked about their plans for the cards, Perkins joked, “Rip ’em and then sell ’em probably.”

As the hour passed, more shoppers began to arrive. Nathan Cain, 22, and Filip Bednarz, 20, joined the queue after being hesitant about purchasing items online. They expressed a willingness to camp out again, with plans to bring additional supplies, including headphones for entertainment.

The line continued to grow as opening time approached. Customers voiced satisfaction with the in-person shopping experience, citing the fairness it offered compared to online purchasing. Once the store opened, staff welcomed customers in groups of 40 to ensure a smooth flow.

Inside, shoppers were limited to one trading card game item, two consoles, and ten games each, allowing for a fair distribution of products. Enthusiasts were on the lookout for various items, including the latest Nintendo Switch games and retro video games, with many preferring to inspect the quality of products in person rather than risk the uncertainties of online transactions.

The Black Friday sales at Epic Games and More will run from November 24 to November 26, 2025, drawing in bargain hunters eager to take advantage of the weekend promotions.