Strat-O-Matic Still A Hit On Opening Day

Despite its availability online and via the latest mobile devices, 's release of its 2012 edition baseball cards in Glen Head on Friday attracted fans from across the tri-state area, with some arriving as early as 8 a.m. in advance of the 12 p.m. release.

As the clock struck noon, founder Hal Richman joined the line of "Strat" faithful to offer a few words about the release amidst cheers of, "You're the man, Hal!"

Despite the challenges of digital competition, Richman claimed the game is stronger than ever, with a documentary due to be released in the summer and an ever-expanding online presence.

"It's another good year, and [these] fans are just a small segment of people who play Strat-O-Matic. Some pick up 20 packs for their leagues," said Richman, the game's founder. "We're looking forward to a great year and some great baseball."

Fans outside the Strat-O-Matic building on Railroad Plaza shared his enthusiasm.

"We've been coming every year for eight years now," said Heston Livingston of Flushing, who arrived at the Strat-O-Matic building at 8:30 a.m. with his sons and some friends.  "The game is fantastic, we can't wait to get into this year's new cards."

Several Boston Red Sox baseball caps were visible in the crowd.

"I've been playing for over 35 years," said Rich Hamill of Boston, a Red Sox and New England Patriots fan. "I'm not sure how the team will be rated this year. I wasn't happy with the real team's performance, so I've just got some of the better Sox players."

For more, visit the Strat-O-Matic website, where you can browse through the game's different versions, including the online game.