GAME ON 2.0 - New exhibition explores gaming history, technology and culture with more than 150 playable games March 9 - September 2, 2013

TORONTO, March 7, 2013 /CNW/ - The world's largest touring exhibition on the evolution of video games makes its first Canadian appearance at the Ontario Science Centre. With more than 150 playable games, Game On 2.0 charts key game developments from 1962 to the present day; from the very first commercial coin-operated pinball game to the latest in virtual reality, multi-player experiences and 3D video games. This new exhibition runs from March 9 to September 2, 2013 and is free with general admission.

Game On 2.0 offers an in-depth and hands-on exploration of video game history and culture from the video game hubs of North America, Europe, and Asia. In addition to more than 150 playable games, visitors will learn about game design, development and production, multiplayer games, online gaming, handheld devices and new game technologies. There are sections in Game On 2.0 that focus on original concept and character art as well as films that have either influenced or been influenced by computer games.

"Video games have changed the way we think, learn and play" said Ontario Science Centre CEO Lesley Lewis.  "They have evolved from a leisure activity focused on youth to an activity that engages people of all ages for purposes of education, mental stimulation or simply fun.  This immersive exhibition gives visitors a powerful perspective on the past, present and future of video games."

The Entertainment Software Association of Canada reports that 58%* of Canadians aged six and older play some form of video game, which is no surprise as the industry delivers $1.7 billion* into the Canadian economy through 16,000 direct jobs. Some of the biggest blockbusters in the industry are made in Canada. Assassin's Creed and FIFA 13 were both developed in Canada. Video games are becoming part of the family social structure, with a U.S. survey finding that 40% of parents** play video games with their children on a weekly basis. Young women are changing the digital space; 49% of teen girls in Canada now play video games several times a week. A majority of parents say video games are a positive part of their child's life **:  66% of parents** said that they believe video game play provides mental stimulation or education, and 61% said they believe game play helps the family spend time together.*

"The phenomenon of video games continues to grow in popularity, with Ontario being the hub of this thriving creative sector industry," said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. "By exploring this prevalent part of our culture, the Ontario Science Centre's Game On 2.0 exhibition will have widespread appeal for visitors of all ages. Our government is delighted to assist the centre in bringing this exhibition to Canada."

The Government of Ontario supports a growing interactive digital media industry through its agency, the Ontario Media Development Corporation. More information is available at www.omdc.on.ca.

Game On 2.0 is an exhibition organized and toured by the Barbican Centre which is owned and funded by the City of London Corporation.  The exhibition is being presented by triOS College and is financially assisted by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, a program of the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, administered by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Corporation.  The Toronto Star is the Media Partner.  Program support is being provided by AMD Canada.

Tickets for general admission may be purchased now online at
www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca or at
416-696-1000.

Social Media Links
Facebook.com/OntarioScienceCentre
@OntScienceCtr
#GameOnScience

About the Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre delights, informs and challenges the communities we serve, enriching people's lives and understanding through engagement with science of local, national and global relevance. Since 1969, the Ontario Science Centre has welcomed over 46 million visitors, with an interactive approach that was the model for Science Centres around the world. It is the public centre for innovative thinking and provocative dialogue in science and technology, aiming to inspire a lifelong journey of curiosity, discovery and action to create a better future for the planet. The Ontario Science Centre is an agency of the Government of Ontario.

Please visit us at Ontariosciencecentre.ca. Facebook: www.Facebook.com/OntarioScienceCentre. Twitter: @OntScienceCtr. YouTube: www.YouTube.com/user/OntarioScienceCentre.

About triOS College Business Technology Healthcare

Since its inception in 1992, triOS College has prepared over 20,000 job-ready graduates for rewarding careers. triOS originated as a technology education provider and has now grown to offer programs in business, law, technology and healthcare. Students receive a career-focused approach to education and have internships included in most programs.

With technology engrained within its roots, triOS is committed to providing the most relevant and up-to-date curriculum available. The recent revitalization of its technology programs; including Video Game Design & Development and Video Game Design Technologies, is a testament to the college's goal of producing skilled graduates that will meet the needs of employers in the marketplace. triOS College is proud to be the presenting sponsor of Game On 2.0 inviting the next generation to experience the world of gaming and recognize its potential as a rewarding career.

triOS is the proud recipient of numerous distinctions including being named one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies two years in a row. triOS has nine campus locations across Southern Ontario and is registered as a Private Career College under the Private Career Colleges Act of Ontario. More information about triOS College may be found at www.trios.com, www.getintothegame.ca, Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/trioscollege/ Or Twitter: www.twitter.com/trioscollegeBTH.

* Source: Secor Consulting Group's "Canada's Entertainment Software Industry in 2011", a study commissioned by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC); and "ESAC Essential Facts 2012"
** Source: IpsosMediaCT's "2012 Essential Facts About the Computer and Video Game Industry" commissioned by the U.S. Entertainment Software Association.

SOURCE: Ontario Science Centre

Media contacts:
Christine Crosbie, Media Relations Officer 
416-696-3191 Cell: 416-895-5482 
[email protected]

Julia Bennett, Media Relations Officer
416-696-3154 [phone]
[email protected]