Gamescom in transition

How large gaming trade fairs became a discontinued model

A trade fair visitor in disguise: Although a lack of exhibitors and a generally difficult economic situation in the industry overshadow Gamescom, the public does not let this spoil their enjoyment.(Bild: AFP/AFP or licensors)

The global gaming scene is meeting in Cologne until Sunday for the world's biggest games fair - Gamescom. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to attend, and for video game enthusiasts, the trade fair represents a rare opportunity to try out tomorrow's blockbuster games before they are officially released. But if you take a closer look, the trade fair loses its luster.

More than 1,400 exhibitors present the latest hardware and software for gaming enthusiasts at Gamescom in Cologne, and there is also traditionally a colorful supporting program with competitions, "cosplayers" dressed up as game heroes and streaming celebrities. However, Gamescom has been weakening in its core discipline for years - games. Krone+ reveals why this is the case - and why the gaming companies don't particularly mourn the heyday of the big games fairs ...