Gamescom 2026 has sold all available exhibition space for the first time, organizers announced, marking a record demand that is already prompting plans to expand the fair from 2027. The event takes place in Cologne, Germany, from August 26 to 30, 2026.
Record demand pushes organizers to consider expansion
According to the event team, exhibitor bookings exceeded expectations, resulting in the entire exhibition area being fully commercialized ahead of the show. The unprecedented sellout underlines gamescom’s role as a leading global platform for the games industry.
Organizers said the strong interest has led them to study options for expanding the fair beginning in 2027.
New and returning exhibitors confirmed
The roster of confirmed companies continued to grow as organizers added several new participants. Newly announced exhibitors include:
- Konami
- Tencent Games
- Embark Studios
- Level Infinite
- Giants Software
- Aerosoft
- NC
These join previously confirmed major publishers and developers such as Xbox, Nintendo, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, Capcom, CD PROJEKT RED, SEGA, HoYoverse, NetEase, Krafton and Bandai Namco.
Opening Night Live lineup reveals early highlights
The gamescom Opening Night Live is scheduled for August 25 and will again be hosted by Geoff Keighley and Eefje “sjokz” Depoortere. Early confirmations for the show include new material for METRO 2039 and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Songs of the Past.
Organizers also said the ceremony will feature world premieres, trailers and updates for multiple titles slated for 2027.
Expanded programming and community-focused features
This edition adds new activities aimed at attendees. Key highlights of the public program include an expanded gamescom awesome indies show in partnership with IGN, the European debut of Games Done Quick (GDQ), an official cosplay contest, and a DidYouKnowGaming panel and quiz.
Event rules and the accreditation process for cosplayers have been improved, the organizers said. They also updated the on-site location system to better indicate accessibility features such as accessible restrooms and free water fountains.
Schedule and industry days
Gamescom 2026 runs August 26–30 in Cologne. August 26 is dedicated to press and industry professionals. The event’s developer conference, gamescom dev, opens the program on August 24, and the Opening Night Live takes place on the evening of August 25.
