Gamescom week 2026 preview: Who’s looking to make a splash?

Summary

The PocketGamer.biz team has arrived in Cologne, Germany, to cover Gamescom 2026. This year's event is set to be the largest ever, with the expo floor space completely sold out. Before the official start of the B2B conference Gamescom Dev and the main show, the team took a walk around the Koelnmesse and the city to see which companies are already poised to make a splash. Gamescom is one of the biggest gaming industry events globally, attracting developers, publishers, and players from around the world. The sheer scale of this year's event indicates a high level of industry enthusiasm and investment. Many companies have set up elaborate displays and are ready to announce new projects, showcase technologies, or promote their brands. For players, this promises a wave of new game announcements and updates that will shape the coming year. For industry observers, the pre-show buzz offers insights into market trends and competitive dynamics. As the show opens, more major news is expected to break, and we will provide ongoing coverage. This preview highlights the anticipation and the potential impact of Gamescom 2026 on the gaming landscape.