Introduction: What is GOAT Store?

GOAT Store, also known as GOAT Store Publishing, was a video game retailer and publisher that operated from 2000 to 2017. The company was known for its unique product range, including import games, homebrew titles, and rare video game merchandise. GOAT Store also published its own games for various consoles, including the Dreamcast and the Nintendo DS.

The Founders: Who Started GOAT Store?

GOAT Store was founded by Dan Loosen and Gary Heil, two video game enthusiasts who shared a passion for retro gaming and collecting. The two met on an online forum dedicated to the Dreamcast console, and soon realized that they had similar interests and goals. Together, they decided to start a video game store that would cater to the niche market of retro and import gaming.

Early Days: How Did GOAT Store Begin?

GOAT Store began as an online store, selling import games and rare video game merchandise. The founders started small, using their own personal collections to stock the store. As the business grew, they began to expand their product range, offering homebrew titles and even publishing their own games. In 2003, GOAT Store opened its first physical location in Mundelein, Illinois.

The Name: What Does GOAT Stand For?

GOAT stands for "Games Of All Types". The founders chose this name to reflect their mission of offering a diverse range of video games, from import titles to homebrew games to rare merchandise.

The First Location: Where Was GOAT Store Located?

GOAT Store’s first physical location was in Mundelein, Illinois. The store was located in a strip mall and was initially a small storefront. However, as the business grew, the founders were able to expand the store and add more inventory.

The Product Range: What Did GOAT Store Sell?

GOAT Store sold a wide range of video game products, including import games, homebrew titles, rare merchandise, and even its own games. The store also offered repair services for consoles and accessories. In addition to physical products, GOAT Store also sold digital downloads of its own games and other indie titles.

Expansion: How Did GOAT Store Grow?

GOAT Store grew steadily over the years, expanding its product range and opening new locations. In addition to its original store in Mundelein, GOAT Store opened a second location in Roselle, Illinois in 2007. The company also expanded its online presence, launching its own website and online store.

Challenges: What Obstacles Did GOAT Store Face?

As a niche retailer, GOAT Store faced a number of challenges over the years. One of the biggest obstacles was competition from larger retailers, who could offer lower prices and more mainstream titles. The company also faced financial difficulties, particularly during the economic downturn of the late 2000s.

Unique Features: What Made GOAT Store Stand Out?

GOAT Store was known for its unique product range, particularly its focus on import games and homebrew titles. The company also stood out for its commitment to the retro gaming community, sponsoring events and supporting independent developers. GOAT Store’s own games, such as Feet of Fury for the Dreamcast, were also highly regarded by gamers and critics.

Legacy: What Was GOAT Store’s Impact?

GOAT Store had a significant impact on the retro gaming community, particularly in the United States. The company helped to popularize import gaming and homebrew titles, and its own games were influential in the indie gaming scene. GOAT Store also sponsored events and supported independent developers, helping to foster a sense of community among retro gamers.

Closure: Why Did GOAT Store Close?

GOAT Store closed its physical locations in 2013, citing financial difficulties and the rise of online retail. However, the company continued to operate its online store and publish its own games until 2017. In its final years, GOAT Store focused on supporting indie developers and promoting retro gaming culture.

Conclusion: GOAT Store’s Place in Gaming History.

GOAT Store was a unique and influential player in the video game industry, particularly in the niche market of retro and import gaming. The company’s commitment to supporting independent developers and promoting retro gaming culture helped to shape the industry and inspire a new generation of gamers. While GOAT Store is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through the many gamers and developers who were inspired by its vision.