The Smithsonian American Art Museum will look a little different this weekend. Instead of only walking through galleries, visitors will be able to play video games, try classic arcade machines, meet independent developers, and listen to live gaming music.
SAAM Arcade takes place Saturday, July 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. inside the museum’s Kogod Courtyard in Washington, D.C. The event is free, although the museum recommends registering ahead of time.
Play Games and Meet Their Creators
A major part of the event will be the Indie Showcase, where visitors can try featured games and meet some of the people who created them.
This year’s showcase highlights games presented by women working in video game development. Attendees will have a chance to play the featured titles and learn more about the work involved in creating a game, including artwork, music, programming, and level design.
That makes the event a little different from a traditional gaming convention. The developers will be there to answer questions and talk about the ideas behind their projects, giving players a closer look at how a game goes from an early concept to something people can actually play.
Classic Arcade Machines and Console Games
Visitors will also be able to play arcade and console games provided by MAGFest, the nonprofit organization known for celebrating video games, gaming culture, and video game music.
The selection will include something for different types of players. Some people may want to check out a new independent title, while others may head straight for a familiar arcade cabinet or sit down for a console game with friends.
The event also gives younger visitors a chance to experience the kinds of arcade machines that helped shape gaming before home consoles and online multiplayer became common.
Live Music From Triforce Quartet
Gaming music will also be part of the day. Triforce Quartet is scheduled to perform at 1 p.m. and again at 4 p.m.
The group performs music from video games using a traditional string quartet made up of two violins, a viola, and a cello. Their performances show how recognizable gaming soundtracks can take on a completely different feeling when played live.
Music often becomes one of the most memorable parts of a game. A theme can bring back memories of a favorite level, character, or boss battle even years after someone last played it.
Quiet Hours Available at the Start
The event will begin with sensory-friendly quiet hours from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sound levels will be kept lower during that period, and headphones will be available for visitors to borrow throughout the day.
Regular programming will continue after 1 p.m. The museum plans to make its final call for gameplay at 6:50 p.m., shortly before the event closes at 7 p.m.
SAAM Arcade will be held on the first floor of the Smithsonian American Art Museum at Eighth and G streets NW. The one-day event gives visitors a chance to see video games from a different angle, not only as entertainment, but as a mix of art, music, storytelling, and technology.
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