Contents
- 1 Quick Summary
- 2 What is ACMI’s Game Worlds exhibition?
- 3 Why is ACMI calling video games the defining art form of the century?
- 4 Which games are featured in Game Worlds at ACMI?
- 5 Are there any Australian-made games included?
- 6 What else can visitors do at Game Worlds?
- 7 Is there exclusive merch at Game Worlds?
- 8 When is the Game Worlds exhibition happening in Melbourne?
- 9 How is this exhibition different from past game showcases?
Quick Summary
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Game Worlds exhibition at ACMI |
| Location | ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne |
| Dates | 18 September 2025 to 8 February 2026 |
| Key Games Featured | Minecraft, The Sims, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Final Fantasy XIV, Stardew Valley, World of Warcraft |
| Unique Features | Hands-on gameplay, microgames by Aussie devs, rare collectibles, after-dark events |
| Ticket Price | From $17 (child) and $26 (adult) |
What is ACMI’s Game Worlds exhibition?
Game Worlds is ACMI’s newest playable exhibition, showcasing over 50 years of video game history through 44+ hands-on experiences.
Spanning from early pioneers like Zork and Colossal Cave Adventure to modern blockbusters like Minecraft, The Sims, and Final Fantasy XIV Online, this Melbourne-first exhibit blends creativity, nostalgia, and innovation.
Visitors will experience the evolution of gaming through concept art, developer materials, and rare artefacts — while actually playing the games that changed pop culture.
Why is ACMI calling video games the defining art form of the century?
ACMI calls video games the defining art form of the century because they combine technology, storytelling, design, and player interaction in a way no other medium does, shaping culture, creativity, and community on a global scale.
From home-grown indie devs to global studios like Blizzard and Bethesda, the exhibition connects players to the stories and systems behind their favourite digital worlds.
It also highlights how gaming has shaped identity, relationships, and even careers for generations of Australians.
Which games are featured in Game Worlds at ACMI?
Game Worlds at ACMI features over 40 iconic video games, including titles from the 1970s to today, such as Minecraft, The Sims, Hollow Knight: Silksong, World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV, and Stardew Valley.
The exhibition includes games litsed below.
- Hollow Knight: Silksong (Team Cherry)
- Minecraft (Mojang Studios)
- The Sims and SimCity (Electronic Arts)
- World of Warcraft (Blizzard Entertainment)
- Final Fantasy XIV Online (Square Enix)
- Stardew Valley (ConcernedApe)
- Neopets (World of Neopia)
- The Elder Scrolls Online (ZeniMax/Bethesda)
- Celeste, Terra Nil, Team Fortress, DOOM, The Sentinel, The Hobbit, Colossal Cave Adventure, Maze War, and Zork
These titles span genres, generations, and gameplay styles, offering an interactive celebration of global and Australian gaming innovation.
Are there any Australian-made games included?
Yes, ACMI showcases emerging and established Australian developers through new microgames and indie classics.
These include:
- ACMI EGG – Care for a shared digital creature (Apartment 809)
- Salix8 Sunset – Restore colour to a fading game world
- What’s Your Angle – Explore shifting perspectives
- Hint Line ’93 – A nostalgic dive into the era of dial-up game hints
- Ispod – A hit from Sbug Games (QLD)
What else can visitors do at Game Worlds?
Visitors can play after dark, attend talks, join themed events, and shop exclusive game merch only available at ACMI.
Extra highlights include:
- After-hours access – Late-night entry and themed nights
- Developer talks – Learn from creators behind featured titles
- Industry networking events – For fans and professionals
- Inclusive sessions – Accessible visits for all audiences
- ACMI-produced books – New titles on *The Sims* and *Hollow Knight*
Is there exclusive merch at Game Worlds?
Yes, rare collectibles will be available only from the ACMI Shop.
Expect limited-edition releases from:
- Neopets
- The Sims
- Hollow Knight: Silksong
When is the Game Worlds exhibition happening in Melbourne?
Game Worlds runs at ACMI from September 18, 2025, to February 8, 2026.
Tickets start at $17 for children and $26 for adults. ACMI members may access priority booking and discounts.
How is this exhibition different from past game showcases?
Unlike static showcases, Game Worlds invites active participation with over 40 playable experiences and a strong Australian creative presence.
It also goes beyond nostalgia, highlighting the social, creative, and technical breakthroughs that define video games as 21st-century cultural landmarks.
ACMI is located at Federation Square, Melbourne, VIC.
Is the exhibition suitable for kids?
Yes, children and families are encouraged to attend. The exhibition features interactive and age-appropriate games that are engaging for younger audiences.
Will the exhibition travel after Melbourne?
Yes, Game Worlds is expected to embark on an international tour after its Melbourne premiere.
How can I get tickets?
Tickets can be purchased through the ACMI website or directly at the venue starting September 2025.
Is Game Worlds at ACMI in Melbourne?
Yes, Game Worlds is being held at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Federation Square, Melbourne. It is the exclusive launch location for this exhibition before it travels globally.
Are there over 40 playable games at the exhibition?
Yes, the exhibition includes more than 44 playable experiences from across five decades, ranging from early text-based games to modern blockbusters like Minecraft and The Sims.
Is Hollow Knight: Silksong playable at the exhibit?
Yes, Hollow Knight: Silksong is featured as a playable title at the exhibition. Visitors can experience it hands-on ahead of its full release.
Is this exhibition free to attend?
No, the exhibition is not free. Tickets start at $17 for children and $26 for adults, with concessions and member discounts available.
Does the exhibition include Australian developers?
Yes, the exhibition celebrates Australian talent with microgames and indie titles developed by local studios, including ACMI EGG and Hint Line ’93.
BattleKart Melbourne
If you are looking for more immersive, family-friendly tech experiences in Melbourne, check out BattleKart Melbourne.
In this real-life video game, you drive electric karts on a digitally projected arena. It is another must-try for gaming fans and thrill-seekers visiting the city.
