The Computerspielemuseum, or Computer Games Museum, is a museum devoted to the history and culture of video games, and it was among the first of its kind in the world. It lies on Karl-Marx-Allee, the grand Socialist boulevard in the east of the city, a few stops by U-Bahn from Alexanderplatz. The central idea is that games are meant to be played, so the museum is full of machines you can actually use: arcade cabinets, early home computers and consoles from different decades, so that you can compare an early bouncing-ball game with something far more complex. The displays follow the story of games from their experimental beginnings to their place in modern culture, with attention to hardware, design, communities and the influence of games on art and society. Exhibits include historic machines and a large collection of games, and there is a sense of humour in the presentation. Because many exhibits are interactive, the museum rewards visitors who like to try things rather than read panels. It also touches on the German and East German side of computing, which gives it a Berlin flavour beyond the international hits. Entry is by ticket, and the version offered here covers standard admission.
Who it suits
Gamers of any age, parents who grew up with early consoles, teenagers who want something other than a traditional museum, and anyone curious about popular culture. It is an unusually good place for a multigenerational visit, since grandparents and grandchildren can compare the games of their youth. Younger children can play too, though some content suits older players.
Planning the visit
Allow around ninety minutes to two hours, longer if you get hooked on the arcade machines. Weekday afternoons are quieter, while weekends and school holidays are busier. Wear comfortable clothes and be ready to stand at the machines. Check current opening hours and any temporary exhibitions when you book, because the programme changes.
Combining it with other sights
Karl-Marx-Allee is itself worth a walk, with its monumental Stalinist architecture, and the DDR Museum, the TV Tower and Alexanderplatz are a short ride away. For a history-and-pop-culture day in the east, combine the museum with the East Side Gallery or a stroll through Friedrichshain, whose cafes and bars are good for an early evening.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided museum of video-game history with many playable machines, from arcade cabinets to modern consoles.
Best time
Weekday afternoons for shorter queues at the machines, or any rainy day.
How long
About ninety minutes to two hours.
Tips
Come ready to play, not just look. Check current hours and temporary exhibitions. Combine with a stroll along Karl-Marx-Allee.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Gamers, retro-computing fans and curious teenagers.
- Families
- Great for families with school-age children and teenagers, and good fun for grandparents who remember early games.
- Couples
- A playful, offbeat date for a rainy afternoon.
- Pair with
- The DDR Museum, the East Side Gallery and a walk along Karl-Marx-Allee.
- Time needed
- Ninety minutes to two hours.
Good questions
Can you actually play the games?+
Yes. Many of the machines are playable, which is the main reason to visit rather than just read about gaming history.
Where is the museum?+
On Karl-Marx-Allee in the east of the city, a few U-Bahn stops from Alexanderplatz.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, for school-age children and teenagers especially, although some games suit older players.
How long does a visit take?+
Most visitors spend about ninety minutes to two hours.
Do I need to know about games to enjoy it?+
No. The museum explains the history and culture behind the games, so it works for casual visitors as well as enthusiasts.
