Play & Compare
Explore classic consoles, computers and arcade games, then compare controllers, graphics, sound, difficulty and game design.
What happens?
Retro gaming, technology & creativity — without needing lots of extra kit.
Each session uses Re:Wired’s existing machines, games and exhibits as the starting point. Children will play, compare, design, discuss and create — learning how games and technology developed while building confidence and curiosity.
Design & Create
Make pixel characters, paper game levels, box art, posters, high-score challenges and new game ideas.
Curate & Explain
Become museum detectives by choosing objects, writing child-friendly exhibit cards and helping tell the story of old technology.
2 hour session
A simple Wednesday night format
6:00–6:10
Arrival & free-play warm up
Sign in, settle in, and try a quick starter game or object challenge.
6:10–6:20
Tonight’s mission
A short intro to the machine, theme or challenge of the week.
6:20–7:00
Main activity part one
Guided play, comparison, design work, team challenge or museum detective task.
7:00–7:10
Break
A short pause, reset and change of activity.
7:10–7:45
Main activity part two
Continue the creative challenge, test ideas, improve designs or rotate machines.
7:45–8:00
Show, score, share & sign out
Celebrate what was made or learned, then parent/carer collection.
First 12 weeks
Example activity themes
Week 1Welcome to the Time Machine
Week 2Space Invaders & Arcade History
Week 3Controller Evolution Night
Week 4Pixel Art Characters
Week 5High Score Heroes
Week 6Design a Game Box
Week 7Computer vs Console
Week 8Level Design Lab
Week 9Sound & Music Night
Week 10Museum Detective Challenge
Week 11Repair & Care, No Tools Needed
Week 12Showcase & Family Challenge
For parents & carers
A supervised club for ages 8–14
Children do not need coding, gaming or technical experience. The club is designed to be welcoming, structured and accessible, with activities that reward creativity, teamwork, curiosity and careful use of the equipment.
Please tell us what helpsIf your child has medical needs, allergies, SEND/access requirements, anxiety around new activities, or anything else we should know, please include it when booking so we can support them properly.
- Parent/carer sign-in and sign-out
- Limited places to keep sessions manageable
- Children shown how to use equipment safely
- Original and historic items handled with care
- Respectful behaviour expected from everyone
- Photo permission requested separately
Ready to join Re:Wired Wednesdays?
Places are limited and booking is essential. Use the booking link below to reserve a place, or contact Re:Wired if you need help booking or want to ask about accessibility before attending.