The National Videogame Museum

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The National Videogame Museum

Discover gaming’s past and present through dynamic, interactive exhibits.

The National Videogame Museum (NVM), located in Frisco, Texas, is a captivating destination for gamers and enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of video games as you explore interactive exhibits that showcase the evolution of gaming. From vintage consoles to modern technology, you’ll discover iconic games, rare artifacts, and intriguing displays that highlight the impact of gaming on society. What are you waiting for? Gaming bliss awaits!

Honoring Gaming’s Past

The National Videogame Museum’s quest is to archive the artifacts and narratives that shaped video games. Their mission is straightforward: to preserve the video game industry’s history by archiving physical artifacts, information, and the stories behind its creation. Video games have been around since the 1950s, and many pioneers have passed away, taking their stories with them. The goal at NVM is to document, firsthand, as much information about the creation and evolution of the video game industry as possible and preserve physical artifacts for generations to come.

Meet the Founders

  • John Hardie: An Atari fan since the days of Pong, John has been collecting artifacts and prototypes since 1986. He has written for various publications and organized conventions and is a co-founder and on-site director of the NVM.
  • Sean Kelly: A pioneer in video game archiving, Sean has been merging the old with the new since the industry’s early days. His passion continues at the NVM, where he focuses on preserving gaming history.
  • Joe Santulli: Co-founder of “Digital Press” and one of the first video game collectors, Joe published the first price guide for video games and opened a shop in 2005. His rarest pieces are on display at the NVM.

Exhibits at the National Videogame Museum

Giant Pong

Prepare to witness a gaming marvel at the National Videogame Museum: Giant Pong. Standing over 12 feet tall, this colossal exhibit pays homage to the game that started it all. Engage in an epic battle as you control enormous paddles, experiencing the thrill of Pong on a grand scale. With its impressive size and immersive gameplay, the Giant Pong machine offers a unique and unforgettable gaming experience that showcases this beloved classic.

Head-To-Head Wall

Experience the thrill of playing video games from various points in history, from pixelated pioneers’ early days to today’s cutting-edge technology. Challenge friends or family as you discover the evolution of gameplay and witness the advancements that have shaped the gaming landscape. The “Head-to-Head Wall” offers an interactive and immersive experience that showcases the diversity and progression of video games, making it a must-visit destination for gamers and enthusiasts of all ages.

Timeline of Consoles

Get ready to embark on a journey through time as you explore the varied history of video game consoles. Using a giant SNES controller, navigate through a comprehensive database of gaming systems, from the earliest pioneers to the latest innovations. Discover fascinating facts and delve into the stories behind each platform. Whether you’re a curious gamer or a devoted enthusiast, the “Timeline of Consoles” offers an interactive and nostalgic experience that celebrates the legacy and impact of gaming technology.

1980s Bedroom

Step into a meticulously recreated bedroom that captures the essence of gaming culture during that unforgettable decade. Explore the vibrant colors, retro decor, and authentic memorabilia that adorned bedrooms in the 1980s. From the distinctive posters of pop culture icons to the cassette tapes lining the shelves, every detail has been carefully curated to transport you to a time of Dungeons & Dragons, vinyl records, and endless gaming excitement.

Rise of Computers

Experience the sheer ingenuity of early personal computers, from the legendary Apple II to the groundbreaking Commodore 64 and the trailblazing IBM PC. Engage with these vintage machines, each representing a significant milestone in the rise of personal computing, and dive into classic applications and games that captured the hearts and minds of early computer users, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of personal computers.

Virtual Reality

Explore the groundbreaking advancements that have revolutionized the way we experience digital realms. From the early experiments with VR in the 1960s to the cutting-edge headsets and immersive experiences of today, this exhibit allows you to step into the shoes of virtual adventurers and pioneers. From BattleZone, a game so real at the time that it was used by the US Army to train tank pilots, to the PSVR, discover how VR technology has progressed over time, from early wireframe graphics to photorealistic environments.

Pixel Dreams Arcade

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a bygone era as you step into this meticulously crafted arcade haven. From the moment you enter, you’ll be greeted by rows of vintage arcade cabinets, each faithfully restored to their original glory. Relish the familiar ambiance as you hear the clatter of buttons and witness the glow of CRT monitors transporting you to iconic gaming realms. Complete with a live high scoreboard, you can relive the days of pure arcade bliss, embracing the nostalgia of competing for the top spot.

Native American Representation in Videogames

Explore diverse perspectives and experiences through interactive displays, insightful commentary, and captivating visuals. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges, stereotypes, and evolving representation faced by Native American communities within the gaming industry. Engage in meaningful discussions and reflect upon the responsibility of game developers and players alike in shaping a more inclusive gaming landscape. Explore the power of gaming as a platform for education, empowerment, and cultural preservation, and learn about initiatives that strive for more accurate and empowering Native American representation.

Journey to the Next Generation

NVM 2.0 is developing and promises to be a monumental leap forward for the National Videogame Museum. The new expansion will feature an expansive Game Library, a vast collection of games from all eras, and a state-of-the-art eSports arena where the thrill of competitive gaming comes alive. NVM 2.0 will also introduce new interactive exhibits and educational programs, creating unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Fundraising efforts are underway to bring this vision to life.

Engaging Adventures Await

Immerse yourself in the history of video games at the National Videogame Museum. From competing for high scores to exploring new exhibits, there’s always something exciting happening at the NVM.

Location & Contact Info

National Videogame Museum
8004 Dallas Parkway Suite 300
Frisco, TX 75034
(972) 668-8400
nvmusa.org

Explore the magic of video games at the National Videogame Museum, where every visit promises a new adventure. Ready, set, game on!

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