The Games People Play: The Evolution of Video Games exhibit at the Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando, has been extended through September 25, 2011, due to its popularity since opening July 2. The exhibit was originally set to close on September 10.
Games People Play examines how electronic games have evolved, from the development of games dating back as far as the 18th century to the advanced consoles of today. The exhibit, created by the History Center, is the last in a series of three of the museum’s most successful exhibits brought back as part of its yearlong 10th anniversary celebration.
Games People Play features an arcade that actively involves visitors in a historical look “inside the box,” highlighting the dramatic changes in size versus power as it marks key developments in game and console technology and illustrates the relevance and sociological influences of these “toys.” The exhibit starts with a walk through the history of video games and some notable personalities that created them: Visitors see an oscilloscope demonstrating Tennis for Two, arguably the first computer game; experience Chicago Coin Speedway, an arcade game considered the closest cousin to the video game; and follow the progression of the Atari 2600, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and Nintendo 64, and other vintage gaming systems like Odyssey, Pac-Man, and Pong.
Visitors then enter an interactive area where they can experience various games through the decades: Classic games like Donkey Kong, Asteroids, and Space Invaders are available to play, along with a hands-on display of joysticks and game controllers showcasing advancements in technology.
Special event in conjunction with Games People Play: The Evolution of Video Games:
Saturday, September 17, 2011
The History Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is $9, seniors (60+), students and military with I.D. $7, and children ages 5-12 $6. Historical Society Members and children ages 4 and under are free. Parking is available at the adjacent Orlando Public Library garage on Central Blvd.
