Gamescom 2026, the world's largest video game trade fair, opened its doors in Cologne, Germany, on August 26 and will run through August 30. Organizers reported record attendance on the opening day, surpassing previous years, with over 300,000 visitors expected across the five-day event.
This year's edition features more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries, including a significant Belgian presence. The Belgian pavilion, organized by the Walloon export agency AWEX and the Flemish agency Flanders Investment & Trade, hosts 15 local studios showcasing their latest projects, ranging from indie gems to AAA titles.
Key announcements at the opening included new gameplay reveals from major publishers like Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, and CD Projekt Red. The event also highlights emerging technologies, with dedicated areas for virtual reality and cloud gaming.
Despite the festive atmosphere, industry experts note the ongoing challenges of layoffs and studio closures that have affected the sector. However, the record numbers at Gamescom 2026 signal a robust recovery and sustained global interest in interactive entertainment.
