The Cleve Carney Museum of Art at the College of DuPage is making a significant impact with its new arcade-themed exhibit. This exhibit offers a unique opportunity to explore the growth, success, and eventual downfall of Midway Games, a prominent leader in the arcade game industry during the late 20th century.

Uncover the Arcade Revolution at the Cleve Carney Museum

History and Rise of Midway Games

The exhibition is inspired by a documentary by former Midway Games employee Joshua Tsui. It traces the rich history of the Chicago-based company, starting from the emergence of Williams Electronics and Bally Midway in the 1970s. Their merger in 1988 led to the formation of Midway Games, which witnessed an arcade renaissance in the 1990s. This timeline provides a comprehensive overview of the company's journey, highlighting its key milestones and contributions. 2: Midway Games played a crucial role in shaping the arcade game landscape. Their creations became iconic, leaving a lasting impact on the gaming industry. From the early days of simple arcade games to the more complex and immersive experiences of the 1990s, Midway Games was at the forefront.

Playable Games and Memorabilia

The exhibit features 16 playable video games, including both arcade and home games. Visitors can enjoy classics like "Ms. Pac-Man," "Mortal Kombat," "NBA Jam," and "Cruis’n USA." On display are also a wide range of memorabilia, photographs, drawings, and TVs showing the "Insert Coin" documentary. This combination allows visitors to not only play the games but also immerse themselves in the history and culture of Midway Games. 2: The playable games offer a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of arcade gaming. Each game has its own unique charm and gameplay, allowing visitors to relive the excitement of the past. The memorabilia adds an extra layer of authenticity, providing a glimpse into the world of Midway Games.

Collaboration and Impact

The exhibit was created in collaboration with Joshua Tsui, the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, and Jonathan Kinkley, the owner of Chicago Gamespace. This collaboration brought together different perspectives and expertise to create a truly immersive experience. It also showcases the museum's commitment to reaching out to a wider audience and exploring different aspects of gaming. 2: By collaborating with relevant parties, the museum was able to bring this exhibit to life. It not only attracts gaming enthusiasts but also introduces them to the larger artistic and cultural aspects of gaming. This collaboration has the potential to inspire future exhibitions and collaborations in the gaming industry.Visitors can enjoy this extraordinary exhibit from now through Feb. 16, 2025. In January, a special documentary screening and panel discussion featuring former Midway Games developers will be held at the college. For more information and tickets, please visit the CCMA website.