The leadership summit at Gamescom is set to make a comeback next month, concentrating on themes such as resilience, future-proofing, and the impact of "AI disruption"

Gamescom dev leadership summit — Image credit: gamescom

The upcoming iteration of Gamescom's executive conference will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, this February. Taking place from the 24th to the 26th, this exclusive summit is directed at C-level executives, founders, and senior decision-makers. Across three days, the event will feature six roundtable discussions on themes like enhancing studio resilience, exploring future business strategies, and addressing the disruption caused by AI.

Organizers highlight that this summit diverges from typical conferences by prioritizing confidential interaction at a high level, enabling top leaders to engage in frank discussions and work together on mutual issues. The attendees have a role in shaping the agenda.

A spokesperson from the organization stated, "During one of the most intricate transformative periods within the global gaming sector, the 2026 Gamescom dev leadership summit, supported by Xsolla, presents a unique occasion for C-suite executives to pause, assess, and define their strategic plans for the upcoming year."

The summit has become a dependable venue for strategic contemplation and open dialogue, according to Lars Janssen, the host and CEO of DECK13. He emphasized the importance of moving away from everyday tasks to critically consider the future of the industry.

Confirmed keynote speakers include Pawel Rohleder and Adam Lason of PixelAnt Games, as well as Dr. Tommy Thompson, who will address topics such as the return of creative independence and the influence of AI in the gaming industry.

Additional speakers, hosts, and panelists confirmed are:

Adam Lason, co-founder at PixelAnt Games
Allen Murray, VP of production at Studio ZAUM
Blake Rebouche, lead quest designer at Guerrilla
Bogdan Draghici, creative cinematic director at Massive Entertainment
Christion Fonnesbech, founder & head of IP at Leverage
Dimitri Barabe, production manager - studio operations at Quantic Dream
Garrett Young, COO / general manager at emptyvessel
Garry Seto, founder at Massive Damage Games / Electric Ink Games
Jeferson Valadares, president at Associação de Produtores de Videojogos Portugueses
Lisa Kretschmer, senior manager global studio strategy at IO Interactive
Lars Janssen, CEO at DECK13
Matt Firor, consultant, former studio director at ZeniMax Online Studios
Maria Cornelius, independent advisor & investor in Games & Interactive Entertainment, formerly chief product officer at Arrowhead Game Studios
Marie Mejerwall, consultant & game director
Pawel Rohleder, co-founder / studio director at PixelAnt Games
Per Strömbäck, managing director at Dataspelsbranschen - Swedish Games Industry
Stefanía Halldórsdottir, CEO at Avalanche Studios
Dr. Tommy Thompson, AI researcher and game developer at AI and Games
Tymon Smektala, Dying Light franchise director at Techland

For additional details or to make a reservation, visit the official website.