Back for the first time in three years, from 18 June – end of 2023, every weekend and school holiday gamers can get hands-on with over 160 consoles and hundreds of games for an immersive journey through the history of gaming.
From the Atari 2600 and the Dreamcast, to the Playstation 5 and the latest in virtual reality technology, POWER UP will give visitors of all levels the chance to live their best gaming-life to experience first-hand how far games and gaming technologies have advanced over the years.
Join beloved characters like Sonic the Hedgehog and Mario on a journey through their decades-long development. Take on friends, family and fellow gamers in the iconic multi-player Mario Kart game, getting to grips with it across a huge range of consoles, from SNES to Wii.
Revel in nostalgia with retro arcade classics Pong and Pac-Man, rock out on Guitar Hero, tackle a virtual reality mission with Astro Bot and floss it out on Fortnite.
Discover games made by winners and nominees from the Bafta Young Games Designers Awards, including this year’s winners when they are announced in June. These annual awards are open to children and young people, celebrating the creativity, skill and imagination of young games makers.
Be inspired by local people behind the games and companies who have made a splash in the world of gaming in the new section dedicated to Manchester’s gaming industry – from early success stories such as Ocean Software and Software Creations, through to contemporary companies including indie developers like Acid Nerve and major studios like TT Games.
Mark Cutmore, Head of Commercial Experiences at the Science Museum Group, said: “We are over the moon to welcome POWER UP back to the museum. It has always been a big hit with our visitors so we’re excited to be giving so much time to enjoy and keep returning to this experience during its longest run ever at the museum. We’re also really proud to be showcasing our city’s amazing contributions to the industry through the new Manchester Made section.
“POWER UP offers a fun space to enjoy past and present gaming technology, experience the latest developments and reminisce about old favourites. The gaming industry is a key component of Manchester’s creative, digital and tech industries and this interactive exhibition will help to inspire game designers and software engineers of the future.”
The Science and Industry Museum is currently going through a multi-million-pound restoration programme, meaning some areas remain closed to the public. However, there’s still plenty to do, see and enjoy.
Tickets to POWER UP grant each person unlimited access to the gaming experience on the day booked. Tickets cost £6 per child and concession, £8 per adult, £7 per senior, and there is a £1 discount per ticket for families. Tickets are available to buy now and can be booked in advance through the museum’s website or by calling 033 0058 0058.
