Nestled in the bustling heart of Zurich, GamePlaza stands out as one of the most exciting destinations for anyone passionate about video games, offering an immersive journey through gaming history unlike anything else in Switzerland. This interactive museum is not just a collection of dusty consoles. It is a playground where visitors can relive classics, battle on arcade machines, and even experience the future of gaming.
Why GamePlaza Tops Zurich’s Gaming Scene
Zurich might be famous for its chocolate, banks, and lakeside views, but GamePlaza has quickly become a must visit destination for gamers of all ages since opening its doors in October 2025.
Founded by Rogier Keemink, a lifelong gaming enthusiast who transformed his passion into a cultural hub, the museum preserves and celebrates the evolution of video games from the 1970s Pong era to today’s VR experiences.
Unlike traditional museums with static displays, everything at GamePlaza is playable. Visitors pay once and enjoy two full hours of unlimited gaming across dozens of machines. No coins. No tokens. Just play.
What sets GamePlaza apart?
Above all, it is the passion behind the collection. Visitors frequently comment on the excellent condition of the machines and the welcoming atmosphere. QR codes throughout the museum provide fun historical insights and extra context for curious players.
Families love it too. Even younger visitors can enjoy the experience. As one Google review mentions, “Even our three year old had a fantastic time.”
A Walk Through Gaming History at GamePlaza
Step into GamePlaza at Badenerstrasse 569 in Zurich Altstetten, just a short walk from Altstetten station, and you are transported across decades of gaming history.
The exhibition begins with iconic arcade cabinets from the golden age of arcades. Think Pac Man, Space Invaders, and other classics that defined the early 1980s arcade boom. These are not replicas. They are original machines, carefully restored to provide the authentic arcade experience.
Move into the console zone and nostalgia takes over. Visitors can play on systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) with Super Mario Bros., the Sega Mega Drive with Sonic the Hedgehog, and early PlayStation classics such as Crash Bandicoot. The timeline continues through the Xbox era and modern PlayStation titles.
Handheld consoles are also part of the journey, from the legendary Game Boy to the latest Nintendo Switch, allowing visitors to experience portable gaming evolution.
PC gaming fans are not forgotten either. Dedicated stations let visitors explore classic PC titles and experience the roots of LAN gaming culture.
The VR corner adds a futuristic dimension. Visitors can dive into immersive worlds using modern virtual reality headsets, demonstrating how far gaming technology has evolved.
Throughout the museum, QR codes provide short stories about gaming history. Visitors might learn how Pong sparked the arcade revolution in 1972, and moments later attempt to beat the high score on Donkey Kong.
Perfect for Families, Friends, and Solo Gamers
GamePlaza is especially popular as a family outing. Children under 4 years old enter for free, while kids aged 6 to 15 benefit from a discounted ticket for two hours of unlimited play. Parents appreciate the shared experience. Instead of isolated screen time, families play together, cheer for each other, and rediscover classic games across generations.
One TripAdvisor reviewer described it as: “A fantastic experience for all ages.”
Friends often turn the visit into a mini tournament, challenging each other on racing games, arcade machines, or cooperative titles. Solo visitors are equally welcome. With so many machines available, it is easy to explore personal favorites or discover forgotten classics.
During school holidays, such as the February sports break, GamePlaza often extends its opening hours, making it an ideal indoor activity during colder months.
Accessibility is also carefully considered. The museum is located on the first floor with spacious layouts, making it comfortable for groups and families alike.
Practical Tips: Planning Your GamePlaza Visit
Getting there is easy
Take a tram or train to Zurich Altstetten, then walk a few minutes to Badenerstrasse 569.
Opening Hours
GamePlaza is normally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, with the following schedule:
- Wednesday and Thursday: 12:00 – 19:00
- Friday: 12:00 – 22:00
- Saturday: 10:00 – 22:00
- Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
Opening hours may extend during school holidays.
Tickets
- Adults: 22 CHF
- Kids (6–15): 19 CHF
- Kids (5): 5 CHF
- Kids under 4: Free
Tickets can be purchased online via gameplaza.ch. Two hour sessions help keep the museum comfortable for visitors, especially during busy weekends.
Pro Tips
Wear comfortable shoes because you will likely spend a lot of time standing and playing. Bring a charged phone for photos and to scan the QR codes throughout the exhibition.
GamePlaza also offers:
- Birthday parties
- Corporate team events
- School visits with educational tours
- School classes receive 20 percent discount, making it a great destination for educational field trips.
- Events, Rentals, and Community Vibes
GamePlaza is not just a museum. It is an active gaming community hub. The venue regularly hosts tournaments, gaming events, birthday celebrations, and corporate team building sessions. Arcade machines can even be rented for private events.
Online buzz reflects the enthusiasm around the project. On LinkedIn, founder Rogier Keemink shares stories from the 1.5 year journey of building the museum, while Instagram highlights visitors rediscovering childhood classics.
Many Google reviews mention the same thing: The passion behind the collection is unmistakable.
Why Zurich Needed GamePlaza
In a city known for finance and innovation, GamePlaza highlights the cultural importance of video games. From the economic boom sparked by the NES era to the global rise of esports and VR, video games have shaped modern culture in profound ways. GamePlaza helps preserve that history while allowing visitors to actively experience it.
For locals and tourists alike, it has quickly become one of Zurich’s hidden gems, blending education, nostalgia, and fun. Whether you are a lifelong gamer, a curious tourist, or a parent searching for a family friendly activity, GamePlaza offers a unique experience. Plan your visit and discover Switzerland’s first dedicated video game museum.
