Experience the Thrills of Gamescom 2025: A First-Hand Guide to Unforgettable Moments and Insights

I’m new to Gamescom, but I’ve heard so much about it. It seems to be growing every year. Even Nintendo came back this time after missing last year. If you’re considering going for the first time, here’s a peek into my experience.

Gamescom happens at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany. The name is a little funny, but it’s a great venue. The weather was warm, between 75 and 83°F, so I packed light for my two-night trip. With my trusty Gundam backpack, I brought clothes, toiletries, and tech gear.

### Getting There

My journey began with an early drive to Birmingham Airport. I took a Lufthansa flight to Munich and then a quick connector to Cologne. The train from the airport to the city center is a good option, but I opted for an Uber for convenience, especially since I was with a friend.

### Where to Stay

I booked a room at the 3-star Hotel Windsor, a bit outside the city but still only a 10-15 minute walk from the main attractions. Hotels get pricey around Gamescom, so it’s wise to book early. Staying on the left side of the Rhine is better, as most restaurants and attractions are there.

### Exploring Cologne

The major landmarks to note are Koelnmesse and the stunning Kölner Dom Cathedral across the river. The central train station is close to the Cathedral, making it convenient to travel. I initially struggled with the train system’s different conventions, but I learned that my Gamescom ticket gave free access to local trains—a nice bonus.

### Attending the Show

Entry was easy with my QR ticket. Gamescom is huge, taking over all of Koelnmesse with multiple halls showcasing major games, indie titles, and even merchandise. The booth designs were impressive, which added to the experience. I discovered shortcuts between halls to avoid crowds.

### The Crowds

On Wednesday, the show felt manageable. However, it became bustling when more attendees arrived. Last year’s Gamescom attracted 335,000 visitors, so you can imagine the size of the crowd. Popular games had long wait times, similar to theme parks.

### What’s on Offer

Gamescom is not just about video games—there’s a lot going on. From big titles to indie games, the variety was surprising. There were also esports booths, cosplay areas, and more. You could even grab food from a wide range of vendors outside.

### Food and Drink

Food options included burgers, bratwursts, and pretzels. I found the quality better than what you’d expect at similar events in the UK. Drinks mostly included familiar choices like Coke, and prices were on the high side.

### The Trip Back

The return trip was hectic. Trains serve as “virtual flight connections,” which meant a tight schedule. Delays had me running through the airport, but thankfully I made my flight just in time.

### Final Thoughts

Cologne is a lovely city, safe for late-night walks. Gamescom was unlike any other event I’ve attended—massive, busy, and loud. For those eager to play, it may be challenging given the travel expenses. But if you’re looking for a fun atmosphere with friends, it’s likely worth it.

If you’ve been to Gamescom or are thinking of going, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the experience!



Source link

Features, Events, Gamescom, Travel, Nintendo