German Games Museum

The Deutsches Spielemuseum sits in Chemnitz, a city in Saxony. It is run by a registered association founded in 1986 by collector J. Peter Lemcke. The museum holds 35 000 games from the last ten centuries and 1 500 books on play, plus catalogues, posters and related objects. Travelling exhibitions reach cities across Europe. A purpose-built wing opened in 1994 after a private investor stepped in. Two further wings for special shows followed in 2011 and 2013. The building is fully accessible to wheelchair users. The collection spans global board games, electronic titles and early rulebooks. Visitors can try out 2 700 modern and classic games in a dedicated play area. Changing special exhibitions highlight themes such as strategy games or family favourites. Regular events include Chemnitz plays!, the German Games School Championship and the European Games Festival. Night openings let visitors explore after dark. The museum is supported by publishers, manufacturers, the city and the state. Inside, long display tables show games arranged by era and region. Shelves hold early books on play, while posters advertise historic tournaments. The play room offers consoles like Wii and Xbox 360 alongside shelves of board games. Outside, the solaris Technology and Business Park provides a modern setting. The museum’s atmosphere mixes quiet study with lively play.