Everything you need to know about Gamescom 2025
From blockbuster premieres to indie surprises, Gamescom is where the gaming year takes shape.
Every summer, Cologne, Germany, becomes the heartbeat of the gaming world, and Gamescom 2025 is ready to keep that energy alive. For five days straight, the Koelnmesse convention halls will be buzzing with reveals, hands-on demos, and announcements that will set the tone for the year ahead.
This is where the biggest franchises drop world premieres, indie teams show off their hidden gems, and fans finally get to try out what’s coming next. From the spectacle of Opening Night Live to the Gamescom Awards, this year already feels like it could be one of the most exciting editions yet.
What Is Gamescom?
Gamescom is one of the world’s biggest gaming conventions, hosted every year at the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany. It’s the place where developers, publishers, and fans all come together to celebrate games of every kind, whether it’s massive blockbusters or indie surprises.
Beyond the show floor, it’s packed with major announcements, playable demos, and livestreamed events that draw millions of viewers from around the globe.
This year, over several days, fans get the chance to play some of the most anticipated upcoming titles on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5, plus check out a few of the latest releases already making waves.
When Is Gamescom 2025?
Mark your calendars because Gamescom officially runs from August 20 to August 24. Things kick off a little earlier on August 19 with Opening Night Live, the huge showcase hosted by Geoff Keighley that always brings world premieres and fresh looks at big titles.
On August 20, trade visitors, media, and select ticket holders get first access to the show floor. Then, from August 21 to August 24, the doors swing wide open to everyone, giving fans plenty of time to dive into the convention and everything it has to offer.
Where to Watch Gamescom 2025?
If you can’t make it to Cologne, you can still catch all the action online. The event will be streamed live through the official Gamescom website, along with its social media platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok.
Xbox and Bethesda will also be running their own broadcast during the week. No matter where you’re tuning in from, the event is designed to be as global and accessible as possible.
Top Anticipated Games to Expect At Gamescom 2025
1. Hollow Knight: Silksong
This is the one fans have been waiting for. After six long years of silence and delays, Hollow Knight: Silksong is finally playable, with demos available through both Nintendo and Xbox. While there’s still no firm release date, just getting a chance to play it after all this time makes this one of the most exciting moments of Gamescom 2025.
2. Resident Evil Requiem
Capcom is ready to show the world what’s next in the Resident Evil series with Resident Evil Requiem. The game is expected to release on February 27, 2026, but fans can preview gameplay footage during Opening Night Live. The game will introduce players to FBI agent Grace Ashcroft as she faces new horrors. Rumours about Leon Kennedy’s involvement have been swirling since the first trailer, so Gamescom might finally confirm his role.
3. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of waiting, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is finally here, and Nintendo is letting players go hands-on at Gamescom. Samus returns with new psychic powers to explore the planet Viewros, continuing a saga that hasn’t had a proper entry in nearly 20 years. It’s a major moment for Nintendo fans who’ve stuck with the franchise since its bumpy reveal back in 2017.
4. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Black Ops 7 is one of the biggest games headlining Gamescom, with new story details set to drop during Opening Night Live. The game brings back David Mason from Black Ops 2, now thrown into the future with advanced tech and high-stakes combat. Fans watching online can also look forward to bonus reveals across Call of Duty’s social channels.
5. Ninja Gaiden 4
For the first time in over a decade, Ninja Gaiden is coming back. Koei Tecmo is finally pulling the curtain back on Ninja Gaiden 4, giving fans their first public demo at Gamescom before its October 21 release. With a mix of returning favourites and a brand-new protagonist, it’s the start of a fresh chapter for the legendary series.
6. The Outer Worlds 2
Obsidian’s space-faring RPG is bringing its signature humour and satire back with The Outer Worlds 2. Instead of a hands-on demo, Xbox will treat Gamescom attendees to a special theatre presentation that dives deep into the world of corporate control and propaganda. Expect to learn more about the Tomb of the Matriarch and how players will navigate this strange society ahead of its October 29 release.
7. Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Pokémon is returning to the Kalos region in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Instead of introducing a new generation, the game builds on the formula of Legends: Arceus and lets players explore Lumiose City while experimenting with new combat mechanics like directional attacks. The game drops on October 16, but Gamescom attendees will get an early taste.
8. Pragmata
After years of delays, Pragmata is finally making a proper appearance. And yes, it’s playable at Gamescom. Capcom’s sci-fi adventure follows Hugh and his android companion Diana as they navigate an abandoned lunar research station. It’s moody, mysterious, and asks deep questions about what it means to be human, with a release still slated for 2026.
9. Little Nightmares 3
The creepy, unsettling world of Little Nightmares is expanding with a third game. This time, players step into the shoes of Low and Alone, with the option to play in co-op for the first time. Gamescom might even show off this new mode, which is a big deal for longtime fans who’ve always wanted to share the fear with a friend.
10. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle: The Order of Giants DLC
Indy is back for more adventure, and this time he’s taking players to Rome. Bethesda and Lucasfilm will use Gamescom to give fans an early look at The Order of Giants, the first DLC for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, launching September 4. Attendees will get to explore the city’s streets and sewers while facing new and familiar enemies.
Conclusion
Gamescom 2025 is shaping up to be one of those events that has something for everyone, whether you’re all about the blockbuster reveals or you just want to discover the next hidden indie gem. With so many showcases, streams, and hands-on opportunities packed into a single week, it’s the kind of moment the gaming community waits all year for.
Even if you can’t be in Cologne to soak it all in, the streams make sure you don’t miss a beat. So grab your snacks, clear your schedule, and get ready because Gamescom week is about to take over.
Oluwaseun Bamisile
