Gamescom, the largest video game event in Europe, is set to take place in Cologne, Germany from August 20 to 24. This annual event attracts gamers, studios, industry professionals, and journalists who gather to experience and preview upcoming games.
Although E3 was the leading gaming event in the U.S. for many years, it couldn’t surpass Gamescom, which has established itself as a premier gaming showcase internationally, particularly since E3 is no longer operational. Following June’s Summer Game Fest, Gamescom stands out as one of the final opportunities to preview major gaming releases anticipated for later this year and into 2025.
Last year, Gamescom attracted 320,000 visitors to Cologne, with a significant portion of attendees being members of the public eager to try out games featured by various developers, ranging from small indie teams to large publishers.
CNET will be on-site at Gamescom, ready to cover these exciting new titles. Fans can also look forward to showcases like Opening Night Live, hosted by prominent games industry figure Geoff Keighley. This trailer showcase is expected to reveal several high-profile games, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Dune: Awakening.
Opening Night Live will occur on August 20, acting as the kickoff for Gamescom, with the main event scheduled from August 21 to 24. The showcase will begin at 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CEST, live from the Koelnmesse convention center. A preshow will start 30 minutes prior.
Viewers can watch Opening Night Live through Gamescom’s official website, a YouTube livestream, or on Geoff Keighley’s Twitch account associated with The Game Awards. For those unable to watch, a live blog will provide updates on new trailers as they are unveiled.
A selection of titles confirmed for the Opening Night Live showcase includes:
– Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
– Monster Hunter Wilds
– Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
– Little Nightmares 3
– Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
– Batman: Arkham Shadow
– Dune: Awakening
– Marvel Rivals
– Squid Game: Unleashed
– A new title from Tarsier Studios
– Sid Meier’s Civilization 7
– Kingdom Come Deliverance 2
– Lost Records: Bloom & Rage
– Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred
With a jam-packed schedule, many other games are also likely to be featured, as studios tease announcements for the event.