About Game On exhibition visit

Play more than 100 iconic games produced over the last 50 years in the world’s largest interactive exhibition about the history and culture of video games. 

Exhibition curated and organised by the Barbican Centre. 

What will my pupils do?

Pupils will get the opportunity to: 

  • Explore the largest interactive exhibition of the history and culture of video games 
  • Play key games produced over the last 50 years, from Sonic the Hedgehog to Mario 
  • Discover the creative and technological advances that have shaped video games into a new medium and art form 
  • Learn about Scotland's role in gaming history, including the story of Rockstar North and Grand Theft Auto 
  • See how Scottish innovations like the ZX Spectrum computer and 4J Studios' contributions to Minecraft influenced the gaming world 
  • Experience independent games with a Scottish connection, such as Viewfinder by Sad Owl Studios and A Highland Song by Inkle 

Find out more about Game On.

Guidelines for teachers

  • Teachers are advised to monitor the games played by pupils to ensure content is appropriate for their age, experience, and ability 
  • All recent video games in the exhibition have European PEGI ratings, displayed on accompanying panels, including games rated 12, 16, or 18+ 
  • Please note there will be members of the public in the exhibition during school visits. We ask that all school groups comply with our behaviour policy and show courtesy to other visitors. 

Duration

The maximum time allowance within the exhibition space is two hours to ensure a positive experience for all visitors. 

The schools slot runs from 10:00 to 12:00 and we ask you to arrive no later than 10:30 to make the most of your exhibition visit. 

Please note the museum opens at 10:00.

Curriculum links

LIT 2-10a / LIT 3-10a   LIT 4-10a 

HWB 2-19a  HWB 3-19a   HWB 4-19a      

TCH 2-01a    TCH 3-01a TCH 4-01a   

National 4, National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher levels in Computing Science and Graphic Communication   

National Progression Awards (NPA) in Computer Games Development (SCQF Level 4, 5, and 6) and in Digital Media Animation (SCQF Level 5 and 6)   

Sustainable development goals

4, 9, 11, 17

Meta skills framework

Self-management: Focusing, Adapting  

Social intelligence: Communicating   

Innovation: Curiosity, Sense-making, Critical thinking 

Booking and payment process 

  1. Choose a date from the available options for schools 
  2. Complete a booking request form 
  3. If we can accommodate your group, we will reserve your requested tickets and confirm with you 
  4. Pay for your booking by debit or credit card at least 10 days in advance of visit by calling the school’s team on 0131 247 4041* 

*Once paid for, special exhibition tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We are not able to invoice for special exhibition tickets.

Available dates

We have allocated the following time slots for school groups wishing to attend the exhibition.  These tickets are available at the reduced cost of £3 per pupil.

Schools may book alongside the general public on other dates, using the box office system, where standard entry charges will apply.

September 2024

Mon 2 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 4 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Mon 9 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 11 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 18 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Mon 23 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

Mon 30 Sep, 10:00 - 12:00

October 2024

Wed 2 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00

Mon 7 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 9 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 23 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00

Mon 28 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00

Wed 30 Oct, 10:00 - 12:00