good events and places to go in the region for a very introverted person to make friends? (local gaming groups, hobby events, etc?)
I've been trying to make some friends in the region/locally, and only had one other friend* besides my roommate who's one of my closest friends (*do not befriend an avoidant even if they say on repeat that you're very cool) - I need to try to get out there and make friends besides just the one friend I have now!
are there good events (like reoccurring events) or places in the region that aren't overwhelming/too active (I liked the one arcade downtown when I went, but there were a lot of loud kids/people) to try to meet people? I've heard the young adult scene here especially the alt scene isn't really the best, but I can't afford to regularly go to Toronto, so.
I'm a 25 y/o gal, struggle with bad social phobia and don't want to be treated like I'm disposable, just want to make friends who know what they want - figured more specific events would help but I don't know where to look since I'm not really on much social media!
I've been trying Hinge to both make new friends and to see if I may find someone I click with down the line once I'm ready (yes, I fell for the avoidant, you can laugh - it is very funny in hindsight even if painful), but I've already gotten a few hateful messages because apparently having basic boundaries as a woman is "everything wrong with Canada"... so I'd prefer to not solely rely on apps like it, lmao
I'm big into Pokémon (play the games and collect cards, no tcg tho) and anything to do with art/the humanities, and am alternative. I also play some Overwatch (winton 🦍) and other games - currently thinking of trying ESO and maybe getting back into TFT - not sure if there's any real Overwatch scene or groups here lol, but I'd love to play with others!
I've only been to a few local card stores, so card store recs are appreciated, esp if they have bulk bins - been looking for some local stores that have older bulk since a lot of people sell older bulk (even commons/uncommons? and more damaged ones??) for an arm and a leg, I just want to paint pokemon cards :[
big post be damned, I haven't lived here that long so hopefully some more seasoned/in-the-know locals can help w/ event/group/etc. recs!