Cubed3 is Heading to Köln, Germany for gamescom

Once a year during summer in Köln, in a city in Germany, one might spot a multitude of bizarre characters walking around. They may have pink or blue hair and wear clothes not usually seen in everyday life, and they may carry huge foam swords or elaborate staffs. This group of people can be seen streaming to Kölnmesse, one of the biggest trade fair buildings in Germany. They are cosplayers and video game lovers, and are going to attend gamescom, the biggest video game trade fair in Germany and even worldwide.

Boulevard Mitte. © Koelnmesse GmbH, Thomas Klerx

The annual gamescom has been taking place in Köln since 2009. It is first and foremost a trade fair that allows developers and publishers in the video game industry to present their games and ideas. Traditionally, the first day of the five day event is reserved for media and Press, before the fair then opens to the public. This means halls are less crowded and it is easier to test out certain games. However, it is also possible to purchase a Wildcard ticket, allowing public visitors in on the first press day in the afternoon, as well. Since the fair is always extremely busy, this is a great opportunity to get a chance to see some of the bigger stalls.

On the evening preceding the first day of the convention is the Opening Night Live (ONL), during which brand new game trailers and news will be announced. Being presented as a live show hosted by Geoff Keighley, it is possible to buy tickets to be in the audience this year. Very exciting stuff!

The event is generally extremely well visited and busy. In 2009, the first time gamescom took place in Köln, the trade fair counted over 245,000 visitors, of which almost 500 were exhibitors. Last year, in 2025, these numbers were higher, with about 357,000 visitors of which over 1,500 were exhibitors. This explains the commonly read about feedback that the trade fair can be too busy at times, and it can be difficult to try out a game or visit certain stalls, with long waiting times of sometimes three to four hours before being able to play a game for ten minutes. It is not ideal but speaks to the success of the event overall.

Hallendurchblick, Halle 9, © Koelnmesse GmbH, Harald Fleissner

There is, however, more to gamescom than just the newest games and tech. From previous years, in the Retro Area visitors could meet groups of collectors and admire (and try out!) long forgotten gaming systems and games that can make some feel rather old. “This is retro now? It was a favourite as a teen…”

In the signing area, fans could get close to their favourite content creators, meet and grab autographs. However, access was restricted and booking in advance was necessary. Naturally, a lot of German creators were present, so fans from Germany got a nice pick. Alternatively, why not dive into a completely different world of fantasy in the Cosplay Village? Here, visitors could meet international cosplayers, visit cosplay workshops and shows, and bear witness to a high quality cosplay contest.

The Event Arena meanwhile hosted a massive stage with live music acts, e-sport tournaments, shows and more! This place was ideal for coming together and celebrating gaming (and related arts) in a group of like-minded people.

An Artist Area cannot be missed, and gamescom delivered here, as well. Artists could exhibit and sell their art inspired by gaming and pop culture in this hall. On the gamescom campus, visitors could look into offers for study and training, from universities and companies, for getting professionally involved in the gaming industry. A fantastic opportunity particularly for students, and anyone interested in the industry.

Naturally, merchandise is a must at an event like this, and a whole area dedicated to selling merchandise was a key part to gamescom last year. Be it merch for brand-new titles, or nostalgic finds, fans could find anything their heart desired. Is a little screen break necessary? Why not head to the card- and board-game area for the latest releases in the world of tabletop gaming. Of course, these types of games cannot be missing from the biggest gaming convention in the world.

In other words, there is a lot to see and do in Köln in August. Who knows which companies will be represented? Which games will be introduced? Well, this year, Cubed3 will be right in the middle of it. Look forward to reports directly from gamescom in August!