German officials formally inaugurate Gamescom 2025

Image credit: Franziska Krug/game – The German Games Industry Association via Getty Images

Gamescom was officially inaugurated on August 20, 2025, by German political figures, underscoring the event's significance and the gaming sector's impact. Key attendees included Dorothee Bär, the federal minister overseeing video games, Hendrik Wüst, North Rhine-Westphalia's minister-president, and Henriette Reker, Cologne's mayor and chair of Koelnmesse's supervisory board.

During their addresses, these leaders emphasized the strategic goal of positioning Germany as a top destination for the gaming industry. Bär remarked on the considerable cultural, economic, and technological promise the gaming industry offers, consistently showcased at Gamescom. "Enhancing our gaming location's global competitiveness is a priority so we can tap into the digital games potential," she stated. Bär noted an immediate plan to more than double funding, with future steps aiming at establishing tax incentives similar to those in other nations.

Wüst highlighted North Rhine-Westphalia's leading role, boasting excellent developer studios and hosting the premier video games event. Gamescom's long-term presence in Cologne underscores its significance to the region's economic vitality. According to Wüst, video games foster employment, stimulate creative processes, and unite people worldwide. He announced a modern funding strategy tailored for emerging projects, vital for sustaining a dynamic games ecosystem. This initiative aligns with national funding efforts, and Wüst commended the federal government for accelerating developments in the gaming sector.