I just needed a pair of jeans and there really wasn't a store besides Old Navy. And that wasn't cutting it. Too many hat and sports apparel shops. The clothing stores were mostly all for women and urban youths. Someone told me I'd find water bongs in a kiosk here. Sadly, that isn't true, but it would be a welcome addition. Most of the desirable places are outside of the mall along Metro Parkway, Dunlap and Peoria. Places like Fatburger, Culvers, Petsmart, Office Max, Barnes & Noble, Discount Tire and Big 5 Sporting Goods.
A lot of these comments come close but totally avoid the main issue of simple economics regarding the decline of Metrocenter. The real problem with these older malls is that there's way too many shopping options and retail outlets in Phoenix and its sprawling metro areas. The shopping mall concept is dated and it shows, unless you live in Scottsdale or the affluent parts of the East and West Valley. Malls such as those can justify high rents being in a nice area, and provide upscale, unique establishments inside like Yard House, Apple Store and Neiman Marcus.