If you love video games, odds are you not only play them, but you also may splurge on occasional merch. From clothing to pins to welcome mats, there are countless ways to further show your love for the industry. I’ve curated a small list of incredible and independent stores/companies that will help you level up your “gamer card”.

1. Pets as a Pokémon Card

Made by the talented Stephanie at Wild Pets Creations, you can customize a Pokémon card based off your furry loved one! Yes. Share a photo of your pet and see them transformed into a legit Pokémon card. With about 2,000 reviews, this item has a 5-star rating! The artwork is adorable, and the quality is top notch, making it worth the splurge. Even if you don’t want to spend for yourself, this would make an incredibly unique gift. Check out their store on Etsy: Pets as a Pokémon Card.

2. CPTN Alex Designs

I’ve ran into their booth countless times at PAX conventions, and I always find myself drooling over their custom controller designs. There are a variety of designs and even licensed partnerships with Cult of the Lamb, Shovel Knight, Among Us, and Sonic the Hedgehog. You can order Switch Joy-Cons, Switch Pro Controllers, PlayStation 5 controllers, and Xbox controllers. Check out these high-quality controllers at CPTN Alex Designs.

3. Black Milk Clothing

Black Milk Clothing is based out of Australia, and they make high quality clothing. They have several partnerships that allow them to design outfits based on the Pokémon, Legend of Zelda, and Super Mario franchise. They have robes, shirts, jackets, dresses, and much more. I’ve purchased several of their outfits and find them absolutely worth every dollar. Check out their wares at Black Milk Clothing.

4. Artovision

You’re not in college anymore. Instead of cheap looking posters, why not splurge on these incredible 3D shadowboxes? Artovision has a vast selection of classics and new games alike, including but certainly not limited to Cuphead, Silent Hill 2, Legend of Zelda, Bioshock, Persona 4, Monster Hunter, Street Fighter, Rampage, and much more! Artovision has attended PAX conventions as well, and I always make a point to stop by. I own a Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time one, and I can tell you that it is high quality and a highlight in my game room.

5. Ukiyo-e Heroes

Last but certainly not least, I want to shout out Ukiyo-e Heroes. Another vendor commonly seen at conventions, this artist creates amazing wood block and giclee prints based on several franchises like Metroid, Alien, Monster Hunter, and more. It is truly a work of art that anyone can proudly display in their home. Even those unfamiliar with video games can appreciate the craftsman ship. The best part is that when the store is open for orders, usually you can score a deal. Oh, bonus: they also sell some pretty awesome pins as well!

Did ant strike your fancy? Interested in sharing your cool video game merch? Please share your thoughts with us on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.

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Featured Image Source: Pets as a Pokémon Card