How We Got Here
Why do we play games?Is it to roll the highest number, defeat opponents, or rack up the highest score? At Hexagon, we believe it’s about more than just the competition. It’s the experience. It’s the thrill of outwitting others, the excitement of analysis paralysis, and the suspense of that final turn. Whether we win or lose, what matters most is the time we spend together.
Playing games is a chance to commit to the present, to connect with friends, and to create lasting memories. The outcome of the game is secondary. What truly matters are the conversations, emotions, and shared moments we experience along the way.
Turning a Dream Into a Cafe
Owners Randy and Kellie graduated from architecture school in 2008, right as the global financial crisis hit. Like many fresh grads, they faced a tough job market, particularly in the building and construction industry. After struggling to find work, they decided to take a different path and moved to Korea to teach English for a year. It was there, surrounded by a diverse group of people, that they discovered a shared love for playing board games—especially Settlers of Catan. They bonded over friendly games rather than the usual bar scene, and the idea of a space where people could enjoy drinks and games together took root.
In 2014, with this idea still in mind, Randy and Kellie opened The Hexagon Board Game Cafe in Edmonton on Whyte Ave. It was the perfect place for casual gaming, great drinks, and a welcoming environment. The cafe was a hit from the start, drawing in locals and visitors alike and quickly becoming a cherished community spot.
Expanding to Calgary
Thanks to the overwhelming success of the Edmonton location, Randy and Kellie were able to turn their dream of opening a second location into reality in 2016. The new space in Kensington allowed them to bring their unique board game cafe concept to a whole new community. This expansion not only broadened their reach but also created a welcoming space for even more people to gather, play, and connect. This milestone was pivotal in Hexagon’s journey, allowing the cafe to grow and solidify its place in both cities.
A New Chapter for Edmonton
After the success of the larger Calgary location and the continued growth of the Edmonton cafe, Randy and Kellie recognized the need for a bigger space to accommodate the increasing demand. While the original location was cozy and beloved, it was quickly outgrowing its capacity. In 2017, they relocated to a larger, more open space, still on Whyte Ave, allowing Hexagon to seat more guests and offer an even wider range of experiences. The new location created a modern, comfortable atmosphere, giving the community the room it needed to continue growing. Though many still fondly remember the original space, this move allowed Hexagon to expand and better serve its community by providing a more spacious environment for even more guests to enjoy board games, drinks, and food.
Celebrating 10 Years
In 2024, Hexagon celebrated its 10th anniversary—an incredible milestone that reflects our journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beloved community hub. After navigating the challenges of the pandemic, the Hexagon team is grateful to have emerged stronger and more connected with the Edmonton and Calgary communities. We are deeply thankful for all the customers who supported us through both the good times and the tough moments. Your continued support helped us persevere and bounce back when things got challenging. A decade later, Hexagon continues to be a favorite destination for friends, families, and gamers alike, offering a place to connect, enjoy new games, and create lasting memories.
