In a world where artificial intelligence increasingly automates standardized tasks, the value of human creativity and interpretation shines through in exhibitions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image’s (ACMI) “Game Worlds: Playable Exhibition.” This innovative showcase, nestled beneath Federation Square, Melbourne, invites visitors to explore the cultural and technological evolution of video games, from the humble beginnings of tabletop role-playing games to the immersive digital landscapes of today.
The exhibition, curated by ACMI’s Bethan Johnson and Jini Maxwell, with consulting curator Marie Foulston, presents a playful yet profound journey through the history of gaming. It highlights the miniaturization marvels of integrated circuits, as exemplified by a 3D-printed LEGO brick version of the iconic first-person shooter game, Doom. Created by a Wētā Workshop graphics engineer and YouTuber known as @ancientjames, this tiny replica underscores the rapid advancement in micro-computing, a testament to Moore’s Law, which predicts the doubling of transistors on microchips every two years.
The Evolution of Gaming: From Tabletop to Digital Realms
ACMI’s exhibition delves into the transformative journey of gaming, tracing its roots from tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons to the digital realms of SimCity 2000 and Neopets. It offers a unique perspective on how these platforms have shaped cultural narratives and societal values. According to Dutch theorist Johan Huizinga, play is the foundation of civilization, a notion that resonates throughout the exhibition.
One of the standout features is the installation “love.exe” by Jarra Karalinar Steel, a commissioned piece for the City of Melbourne. This work, inspired by the fantasy system of D&D and the video game Baldur’s Gate 3, creates an intimate connection with the game’s protagonist, Astarion. The exhibition’s interactive nature, enhanced by the ACMI website’s “Your Lens dashboard,” allows visitors to tailor their experience, blending physical and digital interactions seamlessly.
Gaming as a Cultural Lens
The exhibition also examines the broader cultural impact of gaming, drawing parallels between the virtual and real worlds. The rise of first-person shooter games like Quake, Counter-Strike, and Halo is explored in the context of societal anxieties and the militarization of play. These games, often critiqued for their violent themes, mirror the complexities of modern society, where surveillance and firepower dominate public discourse.
In this context, the exhibition highlights the role of games as both mirrors and shapers of cultural identity. The inclusion of indie games like Celeste, which addresses themes of anxiety and depression, underscores the medium’s potential for storytelling and emotional engagement.
The Future of Gaming and Cultural Institutions
As gaming continues to evolve, its integration into cultural institutions like ACMI represents a shift in how art and culture are consumed and appreciated. The exhibition suggests that making public spaces interactive and engaging may be key to their survival in an increasingly digital world. This notion is echoed by installations like Mike Hewson’s Sydney Modern Project, which reimagines art museums as child-friendly, interactive environments.
ACMI’s “Game Worlds” also serves as a platform to promote the Australian gaming industry, spotlighting local successes like Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight. The game’s sequel, Silksong, has already garnered significant attention, selling seven million copies worldwide since the exhibition’s opening in September.
Reflections on Play and Society
Ultimately, “Game Worlds” invites visitors to reflect on the role of play in society. As Friedrich Nietzsche once wrote, “Existence is justified only as an aesthetic phenomenon.” This sentiment is echoed in the exhibition’s exploration of gaming as an art form, a medium that challenges and entertains, provokes thought, and fosters community.
As the exhibition continues to draw visitors, it underscores the enduring appeal of gaming as a cultural force. By bridging the gap between play and art, ACMI’s “Game Worlds” offers a compelling glimpse into the future of cultural engagement, where interactivity and creativity reign supreme.
