The concept for Masterwork Gaming, then called Gundam Den, began in 2021 when co-owner Tyler Finck first began getting into building models. “When I first started one of my main things was that I enjoyed this model so much and I wanted other people to enjoy it as much as I do and not have to travel all over the country just to get a model, and at a decent price too,” said Finck. As the business grew and it was time to bring on a partner Finck turned to his friend Ben Robison who he used to play D&D with. The duo expanded the business to carry more than just Gundam models and changed the name to Masterwork Gaming. By expanding into the world of games they naturally needed more space to host game-related events and gatherings. This led to the business growing into other parts of the building they were already occupying, making room for Masterwork Gaming to provide a safe and judgment-free place for anyone to play and be themselves.
“I grew up in a smaller town than Zanesville so there was never anything to do and I found that the less you have to do the more trouble you get into. So we want to make a place where people can go to play their things and meet like-minded people without fear of judgment or anything like that. … “I think that is one of the things that really helps, that people can go here and see that they have a place to go,” explained Robison.
Being a centralized location that is open to all ages is what Masterwork Gaming provides, and it is much needed in any community. “I want to see people have a good time and turn here instead of other things that are maybe not so good, and have that place to feel safe,” said Robison. Finck added, “We have a firm belief that if there are tables open and you want to get a group of buddies together, so long as there is a table open, go for it.” Some people have run D&D campaigns held at the store. The space is available to schedule a group play event for games like this or even just as a neutral location for board game nights.
In addition to its expansive selection of Gundam models, the store carries Warhammer 40K and Age of Sigmar models, Magic the Gathering, model paints, and a nice variety of modern board games with plans to expand their offerings in the future.
Special themed days are scheduled throughout the month. Warhammer is played on Saturdays, Commander on Wednesdays, Friday nights are for Magic, and every first or second Tuesday there is a build night to build models, paint them, and share ideas. Open play is on Mondays, but Finck and Robison welcome open play anytime there is space available. Most of these events are free with the exception of Magic tournaments and are open to all ages, even younger children with adult supervision.
Masterwork Gaming is located at 579 Harding Road in Zanesville. They are open Monday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can find them on Facebook at facebook.com/GundamDen87.
