French gaming enthusiasts are embarking on an ambitious endeavor to establish the world’s largest video game museum near Disneyland Paris. The brainchild of collector Ludovic Charles and YouTuber Benoit Theveny, known as Tev to his million followers, this project aims to create an awe-inspiring space that showcases one of the most extensive collections of games ever assembled. Named after the first-ever console, Magnavox Odyssey, the museum will not only feature rare consoles but also house a “Japanese village” dedicated to popular Japanese culture and cuisine.
Ludovic Charles, now 49, has spent the last two decades meticulously amassing a collection of 2,200 consoles. Displaying a wide range of gaming systems, including iconic brands like Nintendo, Sega, Sony, and Microsoft, Charles believes that it is time for these consoles to transcend their shelved existence. His motivation for this project stems from a desire to create a museum that offers visitors an exhaustive overview of the evolution of video games. “Gathering them all was what interested me,” he explained, “but the goal was always a museum.”
Theveny, currently residing in Tokyo, brings his YouTube expertise on Japanese and geek culture to the project. He envisions the museum as a comprehensive survey of video game history, encompassing gamers of all ages and backgrounds. From young Minecraft enthusiasts to seasoned players in their 50s and 60s who recall the humble origins of games like Pong, Theveny believes that video games should be recognized as a vital part of our cultural heritage. “Video games deserve to have their own museum,” he asserts, confident that an increasing number of people share his sentiment.
The planned site for the museum, known as “Projet Odyssee” in French, is an extensive greenfield location in Bussy-Saint-Georges, an eastern suburb of Paris near Disneyland. Previous attempts to capitalize on video game culture in France have encountered challenges: the Pixel Museum in a Strasbourg suburb closed in 2020 after just three years, and a video game museum in La Defense, Paris, shut down after a mere 10 days of operation. However, Charles and Theveny are determined to learn from these past experiences and ensure the success of their project. They emphasize the full support of the local mayor, who is actively involved in an e-sports venture that will also find a place within the complex. Construction is anticipated to commence in 2025, with the opening slated for the following year.
The Odyssey Project signifies a turning point in the recognition and preservation of video game history. By transforming Ludovic Charles’ personal collection into a public museum, this venture honors the pioneers who shaped the gaming industry. It serves as a testament to the artistry, innovation, and cultural impact of video games, acknowledging their significance as a form of entertainment and their growing influence on society.
The prospective museum promises to be a haven for gaming enthusiasts from all walks of life. Whether you are a dedicated gamer, a casual player, or simply someone intrigued by the evolution of technology and entertainment, the Odyssey Project invites you to embark on a journey through time. By providing an exceptional collection of video games, alongside a cultural immersion into the realm of Japanese pop culture, this museum strives to create an inclusive and enriching experience for visitors of every age and background.
The Odyssey Project’s founders are driven by a vision that extends far beyond the museum’s physical walls. They aim to foster a greater appreciation for video games as a legitimate art form and cultural phenomenon. Additionally, they aspire to inspire the next generation of game developers, artists, and storytellers, fueling their imagination through the exploration of gaming’s past. The project’s success will serve as a testament to the enduring impact of video games, cementing their place in history and inspiring creativity for years to come.
In the heart of France, where innovation converges with imagination, the Odyssey Project beckons. Strap yourself in for an unforgettable journey through the annals of gaming history, as this one-of-a-kind museum invites you to embrace the past, experience the present, and envision the future of video games.
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