Prominent political figures grace the opening ceremony of gamescom 2025
Gamescom 2025 Kicks Off in Cologne: A Celebration of Growth, Diversity, and International Relevance
The world's largest gaming event, gamescom 2025, officially began on August 20, 2022, in the vibrant city of Cologne. This year's edition promises to be a showcase for creativity, innovation, and diversity, with participants from over 70 countries.
The political opening ceremony of gamescom 2025 was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Federal Minister Dorothee Baer, Hendrik Wuest, the Minister President of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, and Henriette Reker, the Mayor of the City of Cologne and the Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board of Koelnmesse.
Felix Falk, CEO of the game association of the German games industry e.V., and co-organizer of gamescom, expressed optimism for the German games industry due to renewed momentum with the current federal government. He highlighted the special relevance of the games industry and gamescom, welcoming guests from politics, business, and society.
Hendrik Wuest emphasized North Rhine-Westphalia's position as the number one games land and the development of a new, up-to-date, and market-oriented games funding guideline. He, along with Dorothee Baer, announced plans to more than double the funding for games promotion and work on a tax incentive financing.
The gamescom is a special event for Cologne and an important part of its cultural and economic life. This year, it has expanded its total area to 233,000 square meters, setting a new record. The gamescom 2025 will take place from August 20 to 24, with the opening on August 19, 2025.
The gamescom is organized jointly by Koelnmesse and the game association of the German games industry e.V. Koelnmesse, a partner in organizing the gamescom, is led by Henriette Reker. The Mayor of the City of Cologne, Reker, has been instrumental in the event's success and growth.
The newly elected German federal government supports the gaming scene through initiatives like "GiG – Games & Gamification in Healthcare" in Baden-Württemberg. This programme fosters innovation at the intersection of games and health by providing formats for knowledge exchange, hands-on labs for idea development, financial support to advance concepts, and networking platforms to connect developers, manufacturers, and researchers.
The gamescom Opening Night Live will open the gamescom 2025, marking the start of five exciting days filled with games, innovation, and networking opportunities. The political opening ceremony of gamescom 2025 can be viewed on demand for those who missed it.
As the gamescom 2025 continues, it is clear that the event stands for growth, diversity, and international relevance. With over 1,500 exhibitors, it sets a new record in participation. Whether you're a gamer, a developer, or simply a lover of innovation, gamescom 2025 is a must-visit event.
