Are they addictive? Do they promote violence? What are the health effects? No, we're not talking about drugs - just video games. It seems like whenever a major new game is released, the topic becomes more controversial. But why? Figure it out this weekend when the new "eGameRevolution" exhibit opens up at the National Museum of Play.

After being greeted by giant figures including Sonic the Hedgehog and Link from "The Legend of Zelda," guests will be whisked off into a geek's wonderland. The exhibit features classic console and PC games like Super Mario 64 and Oregon Trail, recreates an old-fashioned video arcade featuring more than 24 operating historic video games (some of them you may remember from last year's "Videotopia" exhibit), and is decked out with notes and drawings from various game inventors. There is also a giant Tetris game, Guitar Hero, and other highly interactive elements.

"EGame" also features educational exhibits explaining how video games developed from something relatively simple like Pong into elaborate titles like Heavy Rain. You can follow a video-game timeline and find answers to some of the big questions surrounding the gaming industry, and learn about how the industry has impacted the way we play, learn, and relate to each other.

The exhibit opens on Saturday, November 20. In honor of opening weekend, there will be a family dance party 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. "eGameRevolution" is included with general museum admission, $9-$11. The museum is located at 1 Manhattan Square. Regular hours are Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday noon-5 p.m. For more information call 263-2700 or visit museumofplay.org.