The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London has opened a major new exhibition titled 'Video Games: Design/Play/Disrupt', dedicated to exploring video games as a significant form of contemporary design and creative expression. The exhibition, which launched in late 2025, examines the creative processes behind game development since the mid-2000s, a period marked by increased accessibility of game design tools and the rise of online communities.
It features over 300 objects, including original concept art, character designs, and early prototypes from acclaimed games such as 'The Last of Us', 'Journey', and 'League of Legends'. A central installation allows visitors to play a selection of influential indie games, highlighting the diversity and innovation within the medium. The exhibition also addresses the social and cultural impact of gaming, including discussions around player communities and industry controversies.
The V&A's initiative follows its earlier 2018 exhibition on the same theme and underscores the institution's commitment to recognizing video game design as a legitimate and important art form. By placing games alongside its collections of painting, sculpture, and fashion, the museum aims to broaden public understanding of design in the digital age. The exhibition is scheduled to run through 2026.
