Get ready to level up because ACMI is going all-out for Melbourne International Games Week this October.
Australia’s national museum of screen culture has lined up a massive program spanning nine days, from intimate developer talks to all-night gaming marathons. ACMI’s Melbourne International Games Week program showcases everything from behind-the-scenes conversations with indie legends to hands-on experiences with the latest Australian games.
ACMI’s involvement in Games Week spans multiple events designed to celebrate both the artistry and community aspects of gaming culture. The museum will host everything from networking events for industry professionals to family-friendly gaming nights, making Fed Square the epicentre of Melbourne’s gaming celebrations.
The program kicks off with targeted networking opportunities for women and gender diverse developers, followed by exclusive talks with international gaming figures, hands-on showcases of Australian game development, and late-night public events that transform the museum into a playable wonderland.
The highlight of ACMI’s Melbourne International Games Week program might just be the chance to peek behind the curtain of Celeste, the indie darling that made grown gamers cry tears of both frustration and joy. Maddy Thorson and Noel Berry’s conversation promises to reveal the nitty-gritty of crafting a game that somehow makes failing over and over again feel like a triumph.
Meanwhile, Big Games Night Out will extend ACMI’s opening hours until 9pm, making it a must-visit destination on the night. It’s set to transform the museum halls into something resembling a friendly LAN party, complete with families discovering that yes, their kids really can teach them a thing or two about gaming.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Microgames
- Until 8 February
- ACMI
- More info here
Four newly commissioned microgames from Australian developers offer unique interactive experiences. ACMI EGG by Apartment 809 features creature care mechanics, What’s Your Angle by Callum Chatfield and Mally He presents asymmetrical two-player puzzles, Salix8 Sunset by Tim Koch explores colour restoration in abstract worlds, and Hint Line ’93 by Secret Lab and Yarn Spinner recreates the golden era of videogame hint lines. Microgames runs throughout Melbourne International Games Week and beyond.
Taking Up Space: A Networking Event for Women & Gender Diverse Game Developers
- 5 October
- ACMI Swinburne Studio
- More info here
This alcohol-free morning event brings together mid to senior-level developers for robust conversation and community building. Program curators Jojo Zhou and Zea Wolfe have assembled speakers including Bethan Johnson, Neema Iyer and Amelia Laughlan for micro-talks covering industry obstacles and triumphs. The event focuses on amplifying voices and demonstrating solidarity within the gaming community, with registration required due to limited space.
Celeste: In Conversation with Maddy Thorson & Noel Berry
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- 6 October
- ACMI Cinema 1
- More info here
The creative minds behind one of the world’s most beloved indie games will share development stories and reflect on over a decade in the industry. Maddy Thorson and Noel Berry, the duo behind the critically acclaimed pixel platformer Celeste, will discuss their creative practice and the game’s impact on trans and LGBTQIA+ communities. The conversation covers everything from the game’s brutally challenging gameplay to its moving narrative about battling anxiety and depression.
The AGDAS: ACMI Audience Award 2025
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- 7-12 October
- ACMI Swinburne Studio
- More info here
This playable showcase presents outstanding games from Australian developers, allowing visitors to try titles including Cast n Chill, Copycat, Cult of the Lamb, Letters to Arralla, Mars First Logistics, Moonlight in Garland, Proximate and The Drifter. The event runs daily during museum hours, giving audiences the chance to experience the diversity of Australian game development while voting for the ACMI Audience Award winner. Each game represents different genres and storytelling approaches, from cozy fishing adventures to narrative-driven experiences.
ACMI + Big Games Night Out 2025
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- 9 October, open until 9pm!
- ACMI
- More info here
The museum transforms into a playable space for an evening of family-friendly gaming experiences – with opening hours extended until 9pm! It features the new Game Worlds exhibition alongside Australian games showcases and Games for Change interactive collections. International videogames curator Marie Foulston will host card-based games events, while the museum’s dedicated Quiet Room provides screen-free spaces for visitors needing breaks from the digital action.
For more information, head here.
This article was made in partnership with ACMI.
