Gamescom is more than just the world’s largest gaming event—it’s where the global industry meets, connects, and launches.

Every year, its scale grows, setting new benchmarks for both business and fan engagement. In 2024, global publishers like Hoyoverse, Bandai Namco, and Krafton showcased their latest titles to a packed crowd of 335,000 attendees across 3 million square feet of exhibition space.

With Gamescom 2025 fast approaching, we’ve compiled key FAQs to help you plan, exhibit, and stand out.

How to exhibit at Gamescom?

The first thing you need to do is secure your booth.

Gamescom is a large-scale show with high traffic, and booth location significantly affects visibility and visitor engagement. Without a confirmed booth, it’s hard to estimate budget, design, or plan on-site operations.

Early registration is highly recommended to secure a favorable location and get better pricing.

When can I apply for Gamescom 2025?

Gamescom registration is divided into two phases. The Early Bird deadline is February 21, 2025, and the Regular deadline is July 9, 2025.

What are the benefits of early registration for Gamescom?

Early Bird registration provides two main advantages: a booth fee discount of approximately 10%, and priority in selecting booth locations.

Late registrations often get assigned leftover spots, which may not be in high-traffic areas. Returning exhibitors may receive preferred locations based on past participation.

When is Gamescom 2025 and what’s the event schedule?

Gamescom 2025 will take place in Cologne from August 20 to 24, starting with Opening Night Live (ONL) on August 19.

B2B and B2C areas operate on different schedules. Events like Gamescom City Festival will also take place across central Cologne, turning the whole city into a gaming celebration.

 

Gamescom Date	Devcom	ONL (Opening Night Live)	B2B	B2C	Event
8/18 (MON)	9:00-19:00
8/19 (TUE)		20:00-22:00
8/20 (WED)			9:00-19:00 (7:00-20:00 for exhibitors)	Media Day 9:00-19:00 (7:00-20:00 for exhibitors)
8/21 (THU)			9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors)	9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors) General adminssion from 10am	12:00- Varies by event schedule
8/22 (FRI)
8/23 (SAT)				9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors)
8/24 (SUN)
*Gamescom City Festival: 8/22(FRI)-8/24(SUN)

What is Opening Night Live (ONL)?

Opening Night Live(ONL) is the official kick-off show for Gamescom, held the evening before the main event.

Hosted by Geoff Keighley since 2019, ONL features global premieres and live game presentations from major publishers.

It is livestreamed on Twitch, YouTube, and the official Gamescom website, reaching more than 1.5 million concurrent viewers and over 540 million total views to date.

ONL is a major opportunity for global exposure, often used to tease new IPs or showcase cinematic trailers before launch.

ONL is a major opportunity for global exposure, often used to tease new IPs or showcase cinematic trailers before launch.

What about the Gamescom Awards?

Gamescom Awards are an important PR tool for many developers and publishers. Studios can submit their titles online throughout July. Nominees are announced when the event begins, and winners are revealed on the final Friday of the show.

Winning a Gamescom Award often boosts visibility, media coverage, and consumer trust prior to release.

See award categories and entry fees for Gamescom Awards

How can EIDETIC support your Gamescom 2025 success?

We have helped major Korean, American, and Chinese publishers successfully execute high-impact Gamescom campaigns.

Our services include in-house booth design, marketing, and production; support from local German staff who maintain direct contact with organizers; and multilingual operation teams experienced in engaging with international attendees.

Explore Our Gamescom Portfolio

Tokyo Game Show 2025 Exhibitor Guide – Part 2

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When you think of Japan, what images come to mind? Futuristic cities, vibrant pop culture, traditional temples, or perhaps cherry blossoms? While Japan is famous for blending tradition with cutting-edge technology, participating in an event like Tokyo Game Show (TGS) can highlight some unique challenges you might not expect.

In this post, we’ll cover practical tips and considerations that global exhibitors should know when preparing for TGS 2025.

How’s the Weather in Japan in September?

September in Japan is still summer, characterized by high temperatures and intense humidity. Last year alone, about 9,100 people in Japan were hospitalized due to heatstroke. Therefore, heatstroke prevention should be a top priority for exhibitors.

Heatstroke Prevention Checklist for TGS Exhibitors:

• • Salty snacks (salt candies, electrolyte sports drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade) for replenishing salts lost through sweating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• • Hydrating beverages like bottled water and unsweetened tea ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• • Cooling towels and cooling sheets to quickly lower body temperature and alleviate symptoms like headaches or dizziness ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• • Scheduled regular rest breaks for booth staff to recover and maintain good health ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

These items are readily available in convenience stores near the venue. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.

What Are Companion Models at TGS?

Promotional models, known as companions(コンパニオン) in Japan, play an essential role at local events. Unlike in other countries, where promotional staff mostly provide information at a reception desk, companions in Japan usually stand visibly in front of booths to actively attract visitors.

Their responsibilities include promoting your booth, distributing flyers, and handing out promotional items.

Most companions are managed by specialized talent agencies in Japan, making it difficult to hire them without local connections. They also expect professional-level treatment and careful management.

EIDETIC has extensive experience managing companions at Japanese events, ensuring smooth communication and operations tailored to your company’s needs.

What Are the Most Popular Giveaways at Tokyo Game Show?

Visitors to TGS typically receive numerous promotional hand fans(うちわ). These fans are extremely popular due to Japan’s hot climate. Well-designed giveaways at Tokyo Game Show become long-term brand reminders in visitors’ hands.

Printed flyers are also common promotional tools, reflecting Japan’s preference for tangible, physical materials. If you feel traditional flyers might not appeal to your audience, consider alternatives such as mini photo books or compact magazines.

💡Want help preparing the perfect giveaways at Tokyo Game Show? Contact our team for local insights and end-to-end support.

How Do I Contact the TGS Organization Team?

Unlike many international trade shows, which usually have a centralized management structure, TGS involves multiple departments and partner organizations, each responsible for different aspects of the event.

In addition, each booth often has its own assigned management personnel, increasing communication complexity compared to other international events. At previous TGS events managed by EIDETIC, we encountered issues such as banners produced outside of Japan lacking local fireproof certification—an issue not initially stated clearly in guidelines. Fortunately, effective communication with on-site staff resolved this issue without the need to remove banners.

Navigating these complexities can be challenging. EIDETIC’s established relationships and experienced local teams enable quick, accurate communication and minimize potential risks during the event.

What Are the Key Booth Regulations at Tokyo Game Show?

In our next and final chapter, we’ll dive deeper into detailed TGS booth regulations. Tokyo Game Show is known for its specific and rigorous requirements, which can feel overwhelming, especially for international exhibitors.

While the official regulations for TGS 2025 will be released in July, here are some of the key updates announced so far for this year:

• • Standardized Booth Size: Booth lengths at TGS are standardized to maximize space. Booth lengths are typically limited to 21 meters (approximately 7 booths). Only exhibitors applying for 42 booths or more can secure island booths. If you aim for an independent booth, be sure to note this.
• • Booth Operating Hours: Booth operating hours will be slightly adjusted. For instance, the first day of public exhibition (B2C) will begin 30 minutes earlier compared to previous years. Adjust your team’s schedule accordingly.
• • Stage Setback Rules: To ensure smooth visitor flow, stage placement guidelines have been updated:
  • -Stages under 1m tall require at least a 4m setback from aisles.
  • -Stages 1m and taller require at least a 6m setback from aisles.
• • Accessibility for All: A new “Accessibility Zone” has been introduced at TGS, highlighting software and services accessible to people regardless of age or disability. Exhibitors offering adaptive technology, eye-tracking devices, and inclusive gaming solutions are encouraged to participate.

For more detailed regulations from TGS 2025, please refer to our previous TGS 2025 Regulations Guide. Stay tuned for a comprehensive breakdown of the official TGS 2025 regulations as soon as they are released!