About Game On
Get set for Game On - the largest interactive exhibition of the history and the culture of video games.
Conceived and curated by Barbican Immersive, Game On examined the creative and technological advances that have established a new medium and artform.
From Sonic the Hedgehog to Mario, visitors explored gaming's rich history by playing many of the key games produced over the last 50 years. As the exhibition has evolved and changed, over five million people of all ages have visited this interactive exhibition in 24 cities around the world.
Scotland is home to some of the most innovative and influential game makers, including Rockstar North, creators of Grand Theft Auto. Game On revealed the stories behind this success, from the invention of the ZX Spectrum computer in the 1980s to the important role Edinburgh studio 4J played in making Minecraft a global phenomenon.
Independent games with a Scottish connection also featured. This included Viewfinder by Dundee-based Sad Owl Studios, and A Highland Song set in the Scottish landscape.
The exhibition opened over 20 years after the National Museum of Scotland was its very first touring venue in October 2002, after its initial opening run at the Barbican in London.
Inside the exhibition
The entrance to the Game On exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, 2024.
Visitors playing Bomberman in the Game On exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, 2024.
The Game On exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, 2024.
Guitar Hero in the Game On exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, 2024.
Stories from the exhibition
Exhibition curated and organised by the Barbican Centre.
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