Initially, C3 Games will have a limited selection of new and used games. However, there are plans to expand the inventory to include gaming systems, accessories, movies, apparel, board games, dice, card games, and even snacks and drinks. 

Video game enthusiasts will soon have a place to buy new and used games locally. On June 5, C3 Games will open for business at 76 E. Washington St. in downtown Burns.

Brad Herrera, owner/operator, has a love for video games, and he wants to share his passion with the community.

“I wanted to give the kids something to do, get them out of the house, and give them a place to go,” Herrera said. 

He was inspired to open a retail gaming store when his family moved back to Burns.

“When I would buy video games for my kids for Christmas, birthdays, etc., I would have to wait until I was out of town in Bend, Ontario, or even Pendleton to get a decent-priced used video game,” he said.

By opening up C3 Games, Herrera hopes to cut out the time spent searching for games by having them readily available for purchase.

Initially, C3 Games will have a limited selection of new and used games. However, Herrera plans to expand his inventory to include gaming systems, accessories, movies, apparel, board games, dice, card games, and even snacks and drinks. 

He also plans to have incentives for elementary kids through college-level students for every A or equivalent grade that they earn.

He said, “It’s a good way to give back and reward hard-working students.”

Herrera added that he wants to follow the model that GameCrazy used. He also hopes to hold video game tournaments in the future.

Harney County isn’t typically the kind of place where you’d find a retail gaming store, but Herrera said he’s done his research. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the gaming industry has thrived over the past year.

Herrera explained that, “With COVID-19 going on, more and more people are turning to video games due to being stuck in the house.”

He added that, “Buying used games and consoles is a cheaper way to get into gaming, instead of spending $500-1,000 on the newest systems and games. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce first-timers without having to spend too much.” He went on to say that, “With a lot of games going digital, it’s harder finding the older stuff that GameStop no longer carries, and you don’t have to wait for shipping.”

C3 Games hopes to fill that gap so you can take care of your gaming needs at home in Harney County.

While excited to open the store, Herrera realizes how busy he’ll be. Juggling a new business, a job at Les Schwabs, serving on the city council, and raising a family will be hectic, but Herrera has his wife, Amber’s, full support. His three children — Cian, Carlee, and Carter — were excited to learn that they inspired the store’s name.

C3 Games will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 6-10 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 6-11 p.m.