I still miss Atomic Comics, but Samurai is growing into a nice store. They offer lots of cool events for the full on fans but, like Atomic, also provide a good experience for those that are simply shopping for the family geek (I use that as a term of endearment). I like the layouts of both stores and the staff are friendly and helpful. I particularly like the ACME Mini-Con (started by Ryan Cody, artist on Villains) and others where I got to meet a bunch of cool people including Jay Fotos ('68), Corey Walker (Invincible) and Scott Kollins (Flash, Avengers) and the various signings with local artists such as Tony Parker (R.I.P.'d) and Jim Hanna (Jack Rabbit).
I am not much of a gamer, but I know they have Magic tournaments and others things for those who are.
All in all, Samurai is starting to fill the void left in the East Valley by Atomic Comics. More on the Central and West Valley in future reviews.