Playing video games at Power UP, Science Museum, London ?

An afternoon of nostalgic gaming at the Power UP exhibition

Power UP is an interactive gaming event that highlights the very best of video games and their respective platforms over the last five decades.

You will discover 160 consoles in this unique hands-on experience in the heart of London. It’s a lot of fun and a must-see for gaming fans!

What is there to do?

There’s plenty to do! This is a truly interactive experience with something for everyone. The event offers visitors an in-depth history of gaming, just waiting for you to explore.

You will enter the darkened Basement Gallery with a buzz of tapping and happiness surrounding you.

An immediate point of interest is the physical timeline at the back of the room. Here, you can learn more about gaming’s fascinating history with each respective console being illustrated via a placard.

You will work your way through this evolution from some of the earliest consoles such as the Binatone TV Master to modern consoles such as the Wii.

The sense of nostalgia is wonderful as you stop by each console and seek out the games of your own childhood. Across the exhibition, you’ll find yourself pausing to reminiscence constantly.

What are the games like at Power UP?

You can expect a sea of platforms and a plethora of genres. These include:

  • Sandbox
  • Shooters
  • Role-playing
  • Simulation and sports
  • Puzzlers and party games
  • Action-adventure
  • Platformer
  • Music-rhythm

You’ll find early and next-gen consoles, PC games, handheld games, arcade games and VR experiences.

Expect to see familiar franchises such as Pac-Man, Pong, Zelda, Mario, Sonic, Halo, Fortnite and Minecraft. There’s also a selection of indie games to boot.

For the competitive gamer, there are even opportunities to attempt to make it onto the leaderboard!

It’s a really fascinating and truly euphoric experience as you dash to and from each platform to play.

You’ll certainly find yourself lost for a few hours in this nostalgic and immersive experience that not only celebrates gaming history, but also its technological advancements.

Without a doubt, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for how far gaming has come. It’s incredible to visualise the vast improvements in graphics and user experience as you work your way around the room.

Is Power UP family-friendly?

Power UP certainly is family-friendly. This is an experience for all ages with an interest in gaming!

There are loads of games children can battle it out on. Of course, do expect some age restrictions (most of which are at your discretion). However, this doesn’t take away from the fun and community spirit of the event.

The multiplayer section is particularly fun with your family in tow. You can learn more about what games and consoles are available via the Power UP floor map.

Where can we eat and drink?

The event has its own dedicated cafe counter allowing you to refuel as necessary. Outside of the exhibition, the Science Museum also offers several cafes and picnic areas.

How much does it cost?

The exhibition has now been extended and you can pre-book your tickets for Power UP on the Science Museum website.

The event is open daily from 10am to 4.30pm and will run until Monday 6 June 2022.

Please see the entrance prices below:

  • Adult (17-59 years) – £10
  • Child (4-16 years) – £8.00
  • Concession (student, unemployed or disabled) – £8
  • Senior (60 and over) – £9
  • 3 and under – free

Once you’re done, be sure to explore the rest of the Science Museum for free and its fascinating exhibitions!

Looking for more things to do in London?

The Power UP exhibition entrance was gifted by the Science Museum, but all views are my own

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