Thousands of fans and experts are attending the event to share their love of gaming and get a sneak-peak of new releases, including a new Indiana Jones game.
ADVERTISEMENTIt's a paradise for gamers.
Gamescom, the world's largest computer games trade fair according to the organisers, has opened in Cologne and more than 1,400 participants from 64 countries are showcasing new games and technology.
After the pandemic boom in sales, the industry is now feeling the pinch as consumers curb spending. But it's far from game over - senior executives are expecting trade to pick up again soon.
"During the coronavirus pandemic in particular, things reallt went up, in some cases by 30 percent, and that's why there's now a bit of normalisation, especially in the investment situation. Interest rates are rising. This is putting pressure on companies worldwide," explains Felix Falk, the managing director of Game, The German Games Industry Association.
"But Gamescom is the best sign that things will pick up again soon. There's more exhibitors than ever before. So there's still a lot to come".
What was revealed on Gamescom's opening night?
Gamescom: Opening Night Live wrapped up with two hours of exciting announcements, reveals, and gameplay trailers, setting the stage for what promises to be a very busy and exciting period in gaming.
Here are some of the biggest announcements:
InZoi - Krafton's highly anticipated life-simulation game, made a strong return to the spotlight with a new trailer. Essentially a next-gen Sims game, InZoi has been eagerly awaited by fans who are keen to dive into its detailed virtual world.
Borderlands 4 - The game was officially unveiled during the event, with a cinematic trailer that teased an adventure across dimensions, featuring a planet scarred by veins of Eridium and a mysterious robotic hand reaching for the iconic mask of a Pandoran bandit. It's set for a 2025 release.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 - Treyarch showed an extended look at one of Black Ops 6's missions. The preview featured bullets flying, massive explosions, and even a cameo by former U.S. President Bill Clinton.
Lost Records: Bloom and Rage - Don't Nod fans were treated to a new trailer for the narrative-driven Lost Records: Bloom and Rage. The game stands out for its unique release strategy; it will be launched in two parts next year, with Tape 1 arriving on 18 February and Tape 2 following on 18 March 2025.
Dune Awakening - A full gameplay preview was revealed. The video highlighted the tools players will use to create their characters, the intense action set in the vast deserts of Arrakis, and the formidable sandworms that are a staple of the Dune universe.
Rounding out the major announcements was Indiana Jones and The Great Circle. Fans got a first look at the gameplay and behind-the-scenes development footage, narrated by voice actor royalty Troy Baker, who voices the legendary archaeologist. The game will launch on PC and Xbox Series X|S on 9 December, with a PS5 release expected for Spring 2025.
Gamescom will continue running in Cologne until Sunday 25 August. Check out the video above for footage of the event, as well as interviews.
