According to recent reports, 29% of German gaming companies anticipate an improvement in the year 2026

A survey by Germany's video game industry trade organization, Game, reveals that nearly one-third of German gaming companies anticipate 2026 being more fruitful for the industry compared to 2025. The study indicates that 29% foresee positive growth over the next year, a significant rise from the previous year's 17%.

Additionally, 41% of these companies remain undecided about the outlook for 2026, while 31% express concerns about the upcoming year's prospects.

Regarding their own business performance, 53% of respondents feel optimistic about their success in 2026, marking a slight increase from last year's figures. Meanwhile, 34% maintain a neutral stance, and 12% are anticipating a downturn.

On the topic of workforce expansion in 2026, 32% of firms maintain a positive view—unchanged from last year, though a noticeable drop from the 41% in 2024. A total of 53% are neutral, up by 2% from the previous year, while 15% have a negative outlook on hiring, reflecting a 2% decrease.

Felix Falk, the Managing Director of Game, commented, "Germany’s games industry is regaining confidence. After facing challenges domestically and internationally, positive developments, such as the successful Gamescom 2025, alongside vital policy measures like increased federal games funding and proposed tax incentives, are generating better prospects and increased optimism compared to last year."

In 2024, the German games sector experienced a 6% revenue drop year-over-year, amounting to €9.4 billion, with premium game sales plummeting by 17%.

Moreover, Game's research in July highlighted a 4% decline in the number of firms in this sector during 2024, coupled with a 2% reduction in the workforce.