Gamescom 2026 attendance rose 6% to 368,000 visitors

International exhibitors accounted for 72% of all participants, with 48 country pavilions representing 41 nations. Brazil, Canada, and the US recorded the strongest growth in attendance. Over 36,000 trade visitors attended the event, with approximately half coming from outside Germany.

The accompanying conference, Gamescom Dev, saw attendance rise by 15% to 6,200 visitors. Held prior to the main exhibition, the conference featured 397 speakers, 238 sessions, and 18 stages. More than 2,500 companies from 95 countries participated, alongside 57 partners and exhibitors across Gamescom Dev and its indie expo.

Digital engagement also reached new heights. By Saturday evening, Gamescom's digital content had generated over 624 million global views, including 78 million for Opening Night Live. The Gamescom Awesome Indies Show attracted more than 302,000 viewers, representing a growth of over 670%. The digital community adventure Gamescom Epix generated 6.2 million page views, up approximately 9% from the previous year.

Felix Falk, managing director of the German Games Industry Association, stated that Gamescom delivered a strong statement about its role as the central platform for the international games industry. He noted that many of last year's record figures were surpassed, particularly in international participation and the number of exhibitors, highlighting the industry's drive for the future despite ongoing challenges.

Gerald Böse, president and chief executive officer of Koelnmesse, added that the event successfully combined the economic and social significance of games on a large scale. He expressed delight at the event's strong international character, which he said demonstrates Gamescom's growing importance as a leading platform for those who play, develop, and create games.

Gamescom 2027 is scheduled to take place from August 25 to 29, with Gamescom Dev running from August 23 to 24.