Trader Spotlight: Mind Games

Tucked into the heart of Northcote Rise is a store that’s been bringing serious joy to curious minds for nearly 50 years.

Mind Games was founded in 1977 by Leighton and Robyn Hipkins after a trip to the US sparked an idea: why not bring a dedicated board game and puzzle shop to Melbourne? Fast-forward to today, their son Lucas and his wife Claire are now at the helm, with stores across Melbourne — including one right here at 361 High Street Northcote.

mindgamesvic is your one-stop shop for everything from classic board games and jigsaws to Lego, trading cards, Dungeons & Dragons, and mind-bending puzzles. Their staff are seriously passionate and incredibly knowledgeable — the kind of people who can recommend the perfect game for your princess-loving eight-year-old or a strategy-loving board game buff.

The Northcote community has embraced the store since day one — it’s a local favourite for birthday gifts, weekend family visits, and last-minute party runs (with free gift wrapping!).

Step inside — fun awaits. Come for the nostalgia, stay for the next generation of game-lovers!