Based in Sheffield city centre, the National Videogame Museum (NVM) showcases over a hundred games, and as our contributor Shehla writes: "it's much more than an arcade." It traces the evolution of videogames over time and even gives you the chance to create your own games.

While the NVM is closed, it's put together an 'at home' series of activities to keep you and your family busy during the lockdown.

Have you ever wanted to make your own Mario character? Perhaps you’ve always been inspired by the artwork of old school RPGs?
Follow this guide from NVM (recommended ages 7+) and create your own animated pixel art!

Download activity sheets (PDFs):

• Design Your Character Offline
• Create a Pixel Art Character
• Guidance for Grown Ups

Download the Piskel app.

And watch the video tutorial below.

Save the NVM!
Due to its closure during the coronavirus pandemic, the NVM's existence is under threat. It's a truly unique place – the UK’s only museum dedicated to videogames, one of the world's leading institutions in the field, and with an ambitious and engaging programme of activity. We are very lucky to have it in Sheffield. If you can, please support the museum's emergency fundraising appeal. Click here to make a donation.