Games Lounge

Please note: Our Games Lounge has now closed so that building work can begin for our brand new gallery Life Online. Opening in March 2012, Life Online will be the world's first gallery to explore the social, technological and cultural impact of the internet and the web. We look forward to seeing you there.

The Games Lounge will reopen on level 5 in the New Year. We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused.

Digital Gaming Timeline

Make your way down the ramp into the Games Lounge and trace the evolution of digital gaming, from its birth in 1952 through to modern day developments. On display opposite the timeline, you will find a selection of games consoles including original models from Commodore, Atari, Nintendo and Sega.

Arcade Games

Recreate the 1980s arcade experience and compete against your friends and family on original arcade machines: Gauntlet, Street Fighter II, Galaxian and Space Invaders, for only 10-50 pence each – the same price as when they were first in use. At the bottom of the ramp is a unique arcade-style cabinet, designed to give wheelchair users access to game titles through a free simulator.

Home Gaming

Learn about and play your way through a selection of groundbreaking games on some of the most popular games consoles released since 1972 – the forerunners of today's multibillion pound industry - including an Atari Super Pong console, Goldeneye 007 on the Nintendo 64 and Super Mario on the SNES. All of these games are free to play.

Table Arcade Games

Among the Tetris style seating in the centre of the gallery, you will find more original games consoles, this time in the table format. Choose from Pacman, Frogger, Donkey Kong and Asteroids. If you've worked up a thirst or you need to feed the machines, head over to our snack and change vendors - just another piece of games arcade nostalgia.