Madrid: OXO Video Game Museum

If you’re a gaming enthusiast or just curious about the evolution of video games, the OXO Museo del Videojuego Madrid offers a pretty unique experience. Located right in the heart of Madrid, in Plaza del Callao, this spot is more than just a museum — it’s a space where entertainment, technology, and art come together to celebrate gaming culture.

What really makes this place stand out are its interactive exhibits and the chance to explore over 70 years of gaming history all under one roof. Plus, with a current highlight being the “30 Years of PlayStation” exhibition, there’s a sense of timely relevance that appeals to both nostalgic fans and modern gamers.

A couple of things to keep in mind: the price of $25 per person is quite reasonable for what you get, especially considering the two-hour duration and the variety of experiences offered. However, if you’re not into gaming or prefer less interactive museums, this might not be your top pick. It’s best suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities and are interested in the technological side of gaming.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and educational way to spend a couple of hours, particularly if you’re in Madrid with a bit of extra time, the OXO Video Game Museum is worth considering. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with friends who share your interest in gaming, or if you just want a break from the usual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Interactive Experience: The museum offers a fully hands-on experience with consoles from different eras and VR options.
• Rich Exhibits: It features over 1,600 square meters dedicated to the evolution of video games, with original pieces and technological innovations.
• Temporary Highlight: The “30 Years of PlayStation” exhibition provides a nostalgic look at one of gaming’s most influential brands.
• Educational & Fun: There’s an educational room with workshops, making it suitable for those interested in the behind-the-scenes of gaming.
• Visual Art: The unique “TeleGraffiti” piece by SUSO33 adds a modern, artistic touch to the space.
• Accessible & Convenient: Located centrally, with wheelchair accessibility and a straightforward 2-hour visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Madrid: OXO Video Game Museum in Detail

If you’ve ever wanted to stand amidst gaming history and actually try out classic consoles, this museum might be your new favorite spot in Madrid. We’re talking about a space that’s dedicated solely to video games, stretching across a generous 1,600 square meters. It’s a perfect blend for those who appreciate the tech side of gaming, as well as the artistry and cultural impact.

What You Can Expect on Your Visit

Starting on the first floor, you’ll find the permanent exhibition, “70 Years of Video Game History.” Think of this as your personal walk through gaming’s evolution, from the earliest arcade machines to modern consoles. You’ll see hundreds of original pieces, which means you get to see the actual hardware and game titles that helped shape gaming culture. It’s a chance to appreciate the technological leaps over the decades, as well as the iconic characters and games that have become part of our lives.

The second floor is where things get more lively and current. This is the space dedicated to temporary exhibitions—right now, it’s showcasing “30 Years of PlayStation,” a nostalgic trip for those who grew up with Sony’s flagship gaming console. The exhibition isn’t just about visual displays; it’s about celebrating a brand that defined an era of gaming.

If you’re interested in interactive experiences, the museum doesn’t disappoint. You can enjoy virtual reality setups, test out classic consoles, and even participate in workshops or events held in the educational room. This is perfect if you want to spend your time actively engaging rather than just looking at displays.

Finally, the ground floor really rounds out the visit. You’ll find a gift shop packed with gaming and geek culture items, perfect for souvenirs. There’s also an atrium that hosts presentations and special events, plus the notable “TeleGraffiti” artwork — a vibrant piece blending retro pixel art with modern graffiti by SUSO33, which visually represents the fusion of old and new gaming aesthetics.

What Makes This Experience Valuable

One of the biggest strengths of this museum is its interactivity. Unlike traditional museums that are more about static displays, the OXO Museum encourages you to try out different consoles and VR experiences, making the visit engaging rather than passive. If you’re like us, who love getting the hands-on feeling of gaming, this can make all the difference.

Further, the exhibitions are thoughtfully curated. The permanent collection offers a comprehensive look at the history of video games, which is ideal whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just casually interested. The temporary “30 Years of PlayStation” exhibit adds a layer of modern relevance, showcasing a brand that has significantly influenced gaming trends.

The Value for the Price

At $25 per person for a two-hour interactive exploration, it’s quite a fair deal. The museum provides a lot of value through its extensive collection, modern VR setups, and educational workshops. When you consider the costs of similar experiences in other cities, it’s a competitive price, especially given the central Madrid location.

Some reviews highlight how “you might find” that the museum is a fantastic space to just play with all the games — a sentiment that really captures the essence of what this place offers. One visitor from Italy mentioned, “Poter giocare con tutti i giochi,” which translates to “being able to play with all the games,” emphasizing the interactive appeal.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The museum is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for visitors with mobility needs. It’s also centrally located, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing. The visit is straightforward; no complicated logistics, just show up and enjoy.

You should be aware that food and drinks are not allowed, and the museum enforces rules around alcohol and drugs — typical for a space focused on education and interactive entertainment.

Who Will Love This?

This experience really shines for gaming fans, especially those who enjoy hands-on activities. It’s also suitable for tech enthusiasts interested in the evolution of gaming technology. While it’s generally family-friendly, it doesn’t specifically target children, so it’s best for teenagers and adults.

Travelers looking for a break from more traditional museums or seeking a fun, casual activity in Madrid will appreciate this spot. It’s perfect if you want to combine learning with playing, and your visits will likely be both nostalgic and inspiring.

Final Thoughts

The Madrid: OXO Video Game Museum offers a well-rounded, interactive dive into gaming history that appeals to a broad audience. Its combination of permanent and temporary exhibitions keeps the experience fresh, especially with current showcases like the PlayStation exhibit. The interactive setups, including VR and vintage consoles, make it a lively place to spend a couple of hours.

If you’re someone who appreciates tech innovation, loves seeing how gaming has evolved, or just wants a fun way to spend part of your day in Madrid, this museum is a solid choice. The friendly guides and engaging displays make it more than just a display of old hardware; it’s a celebration of a cultural phenomenon.

While it might not be for everyone—those less into video games or interactive tech might find it a bit niche—it’s a place where passion and nostalgia collide, making it a worthwhile visit for many.

FAQs

Is the museum suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family-oriented space, the interactive nature of the exhibits makes it suitable for older children and teenagers who enjoy gaming.

How long is the visit?
The typical visit lasts around two hours, which is enough time to explore both the permanent and temporary exhibits without feeling rushed.

Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the museum is accessible for wheelchair users, making it inclusive for all visitors.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the entire 1,600-square-meter space, access to consoles from different eras, VR experiences, and the temporary “30 Years of PlayStation” exhibition.

Are there guided tours?
The available information doesn’t specify if guided tours are offered; it seems to be a self-guided experience with plenty of informational displays.

Can I take photos inside?
While not explicitly mentioned, most museums allow photography for personal use, especially in a space like this. Be respectful of any signage or staff instructions.

Is there a place to buy souvenirs?
Yes, the ground floor hosts a shop selling gaming and geek culture items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and tickets can be canceled up to 24 hours before your visit for a full refund.

What is the best time to visit?
Check the availability for starting times—visiting during off-peak hours might give you a more relaxed experience.

Is there any special event or exhibition happening now?
Currently, the highlight is the temporary exhibition on “30 Years of PlayStation,” which runs through September 25.

If you’re in Madrid and looking for an experience that’s fun, interactive, and offers a glance into gaming’s past and present, the OXO Video Game Museum is worth a visit. It’s a spot that celebrates creativity, technology, and culture, all rolled into a two-hour adventure that’s both nostalgic and modern.

You can check availability for your dates here: