On Gaming Nostalgia and the Link Between Games and Technology Engagement: A Visit to the Science Museum Power Up Exhibition
As a father of two young daughters, aged 8 and 11, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that can spark their curiosity in the world around them. Recently, we visited the Science Museum’s Power Up exhibition — a celebration of the evolution of gaming and its impact on technology. As we explored the interactive displays, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. I was reminded of my own childhood in the 1980s, sitting at a BBC B computer, painstakingly typing out game programs from a magazine, line by line, just to play them.
Back then, gaming wasn’t just about entertainment; it was a gateway into understanding how technology worked. In fact, many of us who were drawn into the world of computers and programming did so because of the games we played — or rather, the games we built or modified ourselves. My father, a teacher, had a discount on the BBC B, which made it accessible to us, and that simple machine became my first introduction to the world of code. Typing in those programs taught me about syntax, debugging, and the satisfaction of creating something that worked.
Fast forward to today, and the Power Up exhibition highlights how gaming continues to be a powerful tool for inspiring young people to engage with the underlying technologies. Whether through the complex hardware that powers gaming consoles or the intricate software that drives immersive experiences, games encourage exploration and innovation. For my daughters, playing and interacting with the retro and modern games at the exhibition sparked questions about how these systems work. This is the magic of gaming — it breaks down barriers between entertainment and learning, making technology fun and accessible.
In an age where digital literacy is increasingly important, gaming offers a natural pathway for young people to develop problem-solving skills and an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Exhibitions like Power Up not only celebrate the history of gaming but also showcase how far we’ve come — and how much more there is to explore. From coding simple games to building complex AI-driven experiences, the connection between gaming and technological development is undeniable.
For me, the BBC B was just the beginning. That early exposure to coding led me down a path that shaped my career in technology. As a CTO today, I see gaming as a tool not just for entertainment but for empowerment — something that can unlock a world of possibilities for the next generation. If my daughters’ excitement after the exhibition is anything to go by, the next wave of innovators may very well be starting their journeys in front of a screen, just as we did.
If you haven’t already, I recommend visiting the Power Up exhibition at the Science Museum. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply a lover of gaming nostalgia, it’s a nice reminder of how games have shaped and continue to influence our relationship with technology… even if it is mostly an opportunity to play on some of your favourites “oldies” on the original machines!
