Game Over, 2010
Atari 2600, Atari cartridge, TV
72” x 24” x 24”

Game Over is an installation that suggests the end of an era, the end of the videogame renaissance and family-oriented game consoles, as well as the end of tube TVs. An analog TV screen shows the words "GAME OVER" transmitted from a customized Atari cartridge. A loose joystick, placed on a separate pedestal, magnifies the lack of control.


Game Over extends the exploration on video games started by the artist in 1985. Due to the important role of Atari on the advance of many technological concepts and devices, the use of this machine transcends the sense of nostalgia, coming into view as a powerful and meaningful icon. Through Game Over, Merhi reflects on how the commodification and capitalization of gaming prompted the conclusion of the joystick times, forcing the industry to seclude not only an extraordinary technology, but also the human values that give meaning to the programming, production and distribution of any technology.




go back