For gamers seeking adventure beyond their screens, there’s a whole world waiting to be explored. Video game tourism is on the rise, and immersive experiences in real-world locations are now more popular than ever. From visiting the digital landscapes that inspired your favorite games to stepping into the settings of iconic titles, there are places around the world that every gamer should experience.
1. Ultimate Game Day in Orlando
Orlando is known for its theme parks, but it’s also a must-visit for gamers. If you’re a fan of Nintendo and gaming history, you’ll love Super Nintendo World™ at Universal’s Epic Universe. Picture yourself riding Yoshi’s Adventure, racing through Donkey Kong’s jungle, and exploring a world that feels straight out of your favorite Nintendo games. The addition of retro arcades, like Arcade Monsters, offers a nostalgic throwback for older gamers, with over 200 pinball machines to enjoy. For something more interactive, the Orlando Science Center has a DC Super Heroes exhibit, where you can test your superhero skills and step into the worlds of Batman and Superman.
On a personal note, I can’t help but remember the excitement of stepping into the world of Super Nintendo World for the first time—it’s as if you’re walking through the actual levels of your childhood games. It’s an exhilarating experience that brings the pixels to life!
2. Tokyo’s Electric Town – Akihabara
If you’re a gamer, Tokyo’s Akihabara District, also known as Akiba, should be at the top of your bucket list. This iconic neighborhood is a paradise for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo is a haven for fans, where you can find rare Pokémon and Pokémon merchandise. Afterward, grab a bite at Monster Hunters Bar, where the menu is inspired by the famous game itself. For a deeper dive into Japanese culture and gaming, visit the Tokyo National Museum, which inspired some iconic elements in games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
I remember walking through Akihabara, where neon signs lit up the streets, and game shops beckoned with every step. If you’re a Pokémon fan, visiting this place will feel like stepping into the heart of the game’s universe. It’s one of those moments that make you appreciate how games bring real worlds to life.
3. Valhalla and the Northern Lights in Oslo
For gamers who crave adventure, Oslo offers something truly unique with The Viking Planet—a digital museum that immerses you in the Viking Age. The virtual reality experiences and interactive exhibits allow you to walk in the footsteps of Viking explorers. If you’re a fan of Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, the immersive activities at Jernaldergarden, a living museum set in the Iron Age, are a must-see.
On a personal note, hiking along Jotunheimen National Park, inspired by God of War: Ragnarök, was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The glaciers and landscapes made me feel like I was in the game, and the experience was made even more magical by the Northern Lights in Tromsø, where I had a meal at Burgr, a gaming-themed restaurant.
4. Glacier National Park – Montana
For a quieter, more tranquil adventure, Glacier National Park in Montana offers jaw-dropping scenery and an iconic backdrop for Far Cry 5 and Far Cry: New Dawn. The park’s stunning views inspired the creators of the Far Cry video game series, and you’ll easily recognize the breathtaking landscapes. The town of Bozeman is nearby, where you can explore the American Computer & Robotics Museum and delve into the history of technology.
As a gamer, walking through the places that inspired Far Cry 5 was surreal. The park’s rugged beauty left me speechless, and I couldn’t help but imagine the game’s characters trekking through those very landscapes. The experience was almost like living inside the game, but with the added benefit of real-world air and sunshine.
5. Luxor – Journey Through Ancient Egypt
If you’ve played Assassin’s Creed: Origins, you’ll want to visit Luxor, where the game’s stunning depictions of Ancient Egypt come to life. The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to the only female pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, and the Karnak Temple are breathtaking to explore. For a unique culinary experience, try the ful medames stew, featured in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle video game.
Walking through the temples in Luxor, I was in awe of the incredible architecture, which mirrored what I had seen in the game. The beauty of the ancient world became even more immersive when I tasted the same dishes my in-game characters enjoyed. The experience added a whole new level of realism to my gaming adventures.
6. Melbourne’s Playable City
Melbourne’s unique laneways come to life in local indie games like Eastern Market Murder, which helps you explore the city’s history through the lens of a murder mystery game. ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) also has exhibits like Hollow Knight: Silksong, showcasing the development of indie games.
The best part? You can enjoy a gaming-themed meal at Fortress, where every table has a gaming console! But what really stole my heart in Melbourne was visiting Sea Life Aquarium, where you can experience Animal Crossing: New Horizons alongside the real-life penguins at St. Kilda Pier. It’s a perfect way to blend your love for games with nature.
7. Paris – A Gamer’s Dream Tour
In Paris, Space Invaders lovers will delight in the hidden game graphics scattered throughout the city on a walking tour. The streets are like a giant game board, and you never know what iconic reference you might stumble upon. As a Pokémon fan, I also made sure to catch rare Pokémon in Parc de Sceaux, part of the real-life Pokémon GO Fest.
As a lover of both history and gaming, the Catacombs of Paris—featured in Assassin’s Creed: Unity—were another must-see. Walking through these underground tunnels, I could almost hear the whispers of the in-game characters. It was surreal and exhilarating to experience the game’s final scene come to life in such an authentic setting.
8. Peruvian Clues for Treasure
For Tomb Raider fans, Peru is the ultimate destination. The ancient ruins of Kuelap in the Amazon Forest directly inspired the opening scene of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Alongside that, you’ll find the Gold Museum of Peru, home to some of the most impressive treasures.
One of my favorite experiences in Peru was visiting Parque de las Leyendas in Lima and learning about Incan myths and legends. The ancient stories helped me connect with the Tomb Raider adventures in ways I never expected.
Conclusion
From ancient ruins to high-tech digital museums, these travel destinations allow gamers to step out of their screen and into the worlds they’ve admired. Whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights in Norway or exploring the iconic landscapes of Far Cry in Montana, each location offers an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional tourism.
For any gamer, these real-world adventures are the ultimate way to bring video games to life.
I’m Jules, passionate about current events and travel. Curious about the world, I explore trends, analyze events, and share my discoveries. Through my insights and stories, I take you across the globe to fuel your curiosity and thirst for adventure.
