gamescom

When, in late summer, the escalators at Koelnmesse are already packed with people and creatures like elves, space soldiers, or video game heroes as early as 9 or 10 a.m., it’s gamescom. Once a year, Cologne transforms for a few days into the most important gathering place for the international gaming scene.

This special trade show week traditionally kicks off the night before with “Opening Night Live”: World premieres, trailers, and announcements are broadcast live from Cologne to audiences around the globe—millions of people tune in long before the exhibition halls even open.

Play, Test, Party

gamescom is a hands-on event: You can be the first to try out games, participate in esports tournaments, relive gaming history in the large retro area, or watch cosplay competitions. When the convention gates close in the evening, the fun usually continues right away in downtown Cologne at the gamescom city festival, featuring live concerts, gaming activities, and street food.

A highlight of the gaming scene with a grand opening show

Today, gamescom in Cologne is considered the world’s largest trade show for computer and video games and the highlight of the year for the gaming scene—especially since the legendary U.S. trade show E3 was permanently discontinued in 2023. Well over 300,000 visitors from more than 100 countries regularly make their way to the Rhine. In 2019, the number of guests even reached around 373,000.

Incidentally, a large portion of the audience watches from home: The Opening Night Live show, for example, reached around 72 million video views in 2025. Game developers and publishers such as Nintendo, Xbox, Ubisoft, and Capcom present world premieres, new trailers, gameplay demonstrations, and release dates here. The show is streamed live from Cologne to numerous countries and often sets the tone for the entire gaming season.

2009: From Leipzig to the Rhine

But the history of gamescom began elsewhere. From 2002 to 2008, the Games Convention in Leipzig was Europe’s largest gaming trade show, growing rapidly over the years. In 2008, over 200,000 visitors attended, and the city reached its limits. In 2009, the trade show therefore moved to Cologne-Deutz as “gamescom.” Even the first edition in August 2009 broke all previous records with around 245,000 visitors and more than 450 exhibitors from 31 countries.

Tickets and Opening Hours: Tips for Your gamescom Visit

Koelnmesse is located in Deutz, right on the Rhine, and is easily accessible by public transportation and even on foot from Cologne Central Station. Tickets are available exclusively through the official gamescom website. To help you plan: The first day of the event is reserved for trade visitors, media representatives, and holders of a special Wild Card ticket.

If you’re coming—perhaps to Cologne for the first time—combine your visit to the expo with a few Cologne classics, such as Cologne Cathedral and other sights, as well as a cold Kölsch at one of the city’s traditional breweries.