The exhibition featured during Milano Design Week 2026 invites attendees to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of board games, bridging generations through the art of play. Spanning an impressive 90 m², visitors can traverse a massive Risk board while discovering approximately 60 games that reflect various historical periods, from ancient diversions to contemporary favorites.
Engaging with history and modernity
Running until May 10, 2026, this unique exhibition showcases around 30 historical games, including classics such as Go, the Royal Game of Ur, chess, backgammon, and traditional card games. In contrast, modern staples like Monopoly and Connect 4 also take their place in the spotlight. Curators utilize insights from the “Atlante dei Giochi” to present these games as intricate systems of rules and social interactions, suggesting that tabletop games serve as miniature public arenas where players navigate cooperation, conflict, and enjoyment.
Interactive experiences and luxury designs
Notable designers, including Spartaco Albertarelli, emphasize the role of play in enhancing our understanding of social dynamics. The exhibition further impresses with crafted editions from Italian luxury brands, featuring bespoke wooden carrom tables, leather-bound Battleship sets, and elegantly designed Game of the Goose boxes. A special area known as the “Ludoteca” invites visitors to sit down and engage in games together, transforming the exhibition into a vibrant blend of design showcase and social gaming experience.
“The tabletop becomes a kind of miniature public space where people negotiate cooperation, conflict and fun.”