Asian Civilisations Museum explores evolution of games in Asia in new exhibition

The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) will open its upcoming exhibition Let’s Play! The Art and Design of Asian Games to the public on September 5, 2025. The exhibition runs until June 7, 2026, and is open daily from 10.00 to 19.00, with extended hours until 21.00 on Fridays.

The exhibition traces the long history of games across Asia and examines their role in shaping culture, identity and community. From the fast-paced play of mahjong and congkak to the strategic depth of Go and chess, games have long reflected societal values, transmitted knowledge and provided shared experiences across generations.

Let’s Play! showcases the history, design and influence of traditional and modern Asian games; photo by Asian Civilisations Museum

Many of the games featured also demonstrate fine craftsmanship, showing how objects of play have often doubled as artistic creations. The exhibition considers how some games evolved as they moved across regions, while others became tools for mental discipline or expressions of design. It also looks at how the nature of games continues to shift with technological change, including the influence of artificial intelligence.

Let’s Play! includes interactive exhibits, outdoor installations, collaborations with schools and local gaming associations, as well as a range of programmes and talks throughout its run.

Admission is S$12 (US$9.30) for Singaporeans and permanent residents, and S$25 for foreign residents and tourists.

For more information, visit Asian Civilisations Museum.

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