The summer of gaming continues this August with Gamescom, which is one of the largest gaming-focused shows on the planet. More than 320,000 people attended last year’s show, and expectations are high for this year’s event as well. In this post, we’re rounding up all the key things to know.
When is Gamescom 2024?
Gamescom 2024 takes place Wednesday, August 21 through Sunday, August 25. August 21 is for media and business people only, while August 22-25 is open to the public. The event takes place at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany.
Tickets for the public cost €29.50, or €9.50 after 4 PM. There are other ticketing options available as well, including a family pack at a reduced cost. Additionally, Saturday tickets are about €10 more. For more, consult the Gamescom ticketing page.
What to expect
Gamescom is immediately preceded by Gamescom Opening Night Live on Tuesday, August 20. That event is expected to include game reveals, trailers, and other announcements. But as for the show itself, attendees can visit the show floor to check out publisher booths and watch competitive gaming tournaments. There is also a “cosplay village” where attendees can see the best cosplay. There is also a “campus” area where people can visit to learn about video game industry careers. What’s more, Gamescom’s show floor has a space dedicated to indie games and a merchandise hall.
This is just a small sampling of what you can expect to find, see, and do at Gamescom. Be sure to visit Gamescom’s website to learn more.
No Switch 2 at Gamescom
Nintendo is cooking up its next piece of hardware, but it won’t be on display at Gamescom. Nintendo said earlier this year that it made the decision to skip Gamescom this year “after careful consideration.” Of course, it’s possible Nintendo representatives could be on hand at the event to scope out the competition or conduct business meetings and demos behind closed doors.
More exhibitors than ever
Gamescom organizers recently announced the event has more exhibitors than ever before in its history. Some of these partners include:
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Gamescom awards
In addition to the event itself, Gamescom hands out awards for things like Best Gameplay, Most Epic, and Best Visuals, and then Best Xbox/Switch/PC/PlayStation/Mobile games. To be eligible for an award, publishers have to pay €440 for consideration in one category, €800 for up to three categories, and €200 for every additional category. Indie games only have to pay half of these fees. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was the big winner at 2023’s event.
Keep checking back with GameSpot for more on Gamescom 2024, as we’ll bring you more news and updates in the days and weeks leading up to the show.
