What does Gamescom look like in a post-E3 world?
Gamescom is more than just a week in Cologne.
The world's biggest games show has expanded dramatically in recent years with the launch of satellite events in other markets; first with Gamescom Asia in Singapore, which debuted in 2021, and this year heading to Brazil with the first Gamescom Latam.
The Cologne show already prided itself on being an international event, attracting companies and visitors from all over the world and representing different nations with the country pavilions found in the business halls. But co-organiser Felix Falk, also managing director of German games trade association Game, says the physical expansion into other territories demonstrates the global role Gamescom aims to play in the games industry.
"We want to be the most relevant show for the industry," he says. "We want to keep up with the developments and dynamics of the industry as a show to build a stage and have the most exciting and most important game festival worldwide, connecting the industry and the community in real life and also on a hybrid basis.
"The two satellites means that we're not only in one spot in the world. If you are in South America or Asia and you can't come to Gamescom, Gamescom will be close to you in the future."
"The beauty of Gamescom is that it's not only Opening Night Live, a two-hour showcase, and that's it. There's the connection to the real festival and a lot of potential still to be found"
Christoph Werner, senior vice president of Gamescom's organiser and venue Koelnmesse, adds that the success of these satellites is already boosting international participation at the Cologne show. The number of country pavilions at this year's show has seen double digit growth, with 43 such booths from 33 countries.
With two additional territories under its belt, the Gamescom organisers are now focused on developing these shows rather than seeking their next expansion. While Falk says they remain open to the possibility, any additional event "has to be a unique and perfect
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