For nearly fifteen years, Gamescom has been a steadfast presence in the gaming world, held annually at the Koelnmesse venue in Cologne, Germany. This extraordinary event, which made its debut in 2009, has become a pillar of the gaming calendar, drawing countless enthusiasts and industry professionals every August for a unique blend of gaming announcements and hands-on experiences with upcoming titles.
Apart from the brief interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Gamescom has been a consistent gathering point for gaming enthusiasts. Its appeal lies not only in its capacity to unite players under one roof but also in its track record of hosting major announcements. In recent times, Geoff Keighley’s Opening Night Live showcase has become a highlight, delivering pivotal reveals such as the DualSense Edge PS5 controller, Sonic Frontiers’ final update, and character revelations for the eagerly anticipated Mortal Kombat 1.
Gamescom distinguishes itself from other industry events like E3 and The Game Awards by offering a unique hybrid experience, where both the press and the public converge. It provides dedicated spaces for each group, fostering an environment where gaming culture flourishes.
At Gamescom 2023, TRG had the privilege of speaking with Felix Falk, the managing director of Game, the German organization responsible for Gamescom. He shed light on what makes this event exceptional and offered insights into its short-term and long-term prospects.
Falk emphasized the event’s consistent growth and effectiveness in attracting a diverse crowd, including press, consumers, and exhibitors, since its inception fourteen years ago. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Gamescom surpassed previous records during its digital events. In 2023, it boasts participation from more than 1,200 exhibitors representing 63 countries, marking its most international edition to date.
Falk outlined what he described as the “360-degree approach” to organizing Gamescom, celebrating the event’s rich diversity in terms of business, press, and consumer involvement. From showcasing indie games from small studios to featuring major blockbuster titles, Gamescom accommodates it all. The presence of esports tournaments, cosplay contests, and Europe’s most extensive gaming business area further enriches the experience.
While Microsoft made headlines with games like Starfield and Forza Motorsport at Gamescom 2023, other prominent publishers like Bandai Namco showcased titles like Tekken 8 and Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon.
Falk also expressed the joy of what Gamescom brings to the city of Cologne beyond the confines of the Koelnmesse venue. He highlighted how the entire city immerses itself in gaming culture during the event, with festivals, concerts featuring game music, and even LAN parties held in campgrounds. It’s a convergence of all facets of gaming culture that makes Gamescom truly exceptional.
Falk notably refrained from comparing Gamescom to E3, emphasizing Gamescom’s community-oriented approach. While E3 leans heavily towards business, Gamescom maintains its focus on fostering a sense of community among gamers.
According to Falk, Gamescom is just beginning to tap into its potential for growth. He attributes Gamescom’s success to leveraging the pandemic to expand its digital reach, hosting events like Opening Night Live and IGN’s Gamescom Studio, which have significantly increased viewership in recent years. Additionally, Gamescom serves as a collaborative effort of the industry to present a truly international showcase, uniting gaming’s potential, vitality, and strength in one place.
With an average of around 300,000 in-person attendees annually, complemented by a substantial online audience tuning in for announcements and coverage, Gamescom is on an upward trajectory. It remains a premier destination for new game unveilings and hands-on experiences with the latest gaming innovations, continuing to captivate gamers worldwide.
