Berlin’s Computer Game Museum, or Computerspielemuseum, is a must-visit destination for gamers, history buffs, and anyone interested in the intersection of art and technology.
The first museum for computer games in the world
The Computerspielemuseum opened in 1997 and was the world’s first permanent exhibition of digital games. Located in a former movie theater, the museum stands on the famous Karl-Marx-Allee in the eastern part of Berlin. It is easy for passersby to spot because the entrance is marked by a colorful, pixelated sign that sets the tone for what’s inside.
Once you step inside the museum, you are immediately transported into a world of video games once you step inside the museum. From the earliest console games to the latest virtual reality experiences, there is lots to explore. The museum has a collection of over 20,000 objects! This collection includes consoles, games, and accessories, as well as original artwork, soundtracks, and other memorabilia.
The main goal of the museum is to promote a better understanding of digital entertainment media today, and in the future.
The exhibits at the Computerspielemuseum
One of the highlights of the museum is the permanent exhibition, “From the Shadow of the Wall to the Web – Computer Games in East Germany.” This exhibit explores the history of video games in East Germany, beginning with the early 1980s to the fall of the Berlin Wall. The display includes rare consoles and games from the era, as well as interviews with developers and players.
Another must-see exhibit is “PLAY Berlin,” which showcases the city’s unique history and relationship with video games. The exhibit includes interactive installations, such as a giant joystick that visitors can play with, as well as a full-scale recreation of a 1980s video game arcade.
Some very successful video games were invented in Berlin over the years. These games include: Curious Expedition 2, Demolition, Islanders, Superflight, Cloudpunk, and Through the Darkest of Times. You can learn more about these games, and others, at the museum.
The museum always hosts temporary exhibitions on exciting topics. These topics range from how games can be used in fostering political activism to how games foster certain feelings within players.
The museum hosts regular events, including gaming tournaments, workshops, and talks.
Getting hands-on with gaming history
If you’re a fan of classic video games, the museum has a collection of consoles and games that you can play. You can experience the nostalgia of playing on an Atari 2600, a Nintendo Entertainment System, or a Sega Genesis. Even the most experienced gamer will be able to discover something new in the museum’s collection of rare and obscure games.
A destination for the whole family
The Computer Game Museum is an excellent destination for families. The museum has a dedicated kids’ area, where children can play age-appropriate games and learn about the history of the gaming industry.
Overall, the Computer Game Museum is an exciting destination in the German capital. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of video games, and it’s a fun and educational experience for all ages. Whether you’re a serious gamer or just looking for something different to do in Berlin, the Computerspielemuseum is certainly worth a visit.
Planning your visit
As of 2023, the ticket prices were as follows:
Regular: € 11
Reduced: € 7
Small family ticket: € 18 (max. 1 adult, max. 3 persons)
Large family ticket: 29 € (max. 2 adults, max. 6 persons)
The museum is open every day from 10am to 8pm.
You can also follow the museum on Instagram or Twitter to stay up-to-date on the latest news and exhibitions. Be sure to check the museum’s website for hours, admission fees, and special events in advance of your visit.
How to get there
The Computer Game Museum is really easy to get to with public transit. Just a handful of stops away from the central hub of Alexanderplatz, it’s located directly on Karl-Marx-Allee. Exit at the U-Bahn stop at Weberweise and it’ll be right across the street!
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