As every August, Europe becomes the epicentre of gaming news and major announcements. Cologne will once again host Gamescom in 2025, and it's already confirmed that even more companies and titles will attend than last year.
From major publishers to the smallest indie teams, everyone has a place at Gamescom. This year is even more exciting, as many releases announced or yet to be revealed for the second half of 2025 and early 2026 will be showcased here.
As always, Gamereactor will send a team to the German show to bring you first-hand coverage: all the news, Opening Night Live announcements, hands-on impressions, and interviews with the people who make the games we love.
- You might be interested: Featured: Gamescom 2025 Coverage.
Of course, besides reporting on video games, we also cover world news. And while this massive gaming event takes place, a protest camp (now facing a ban) has been called in front of Cologne's iconic Cathedral to denounce Germany's growing militarization.
Organisers are positioning this demonstration as a counterpoint to the city's industrial and military presence, highlighting how the surge in defence spending and arms production contrasts sharply with the spirit of peace that many associate with this historic landmark.
The choice of Cologne Cathedral as a protest site is no coincidence. This Gothic monument, which miraculously survived the bombings of World War II, is a symbol of resistance but also a cultural and tourist landmark that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Despite the ban, the organizers have made it clear that they will not give up. In a statement, they have reaffirmed their intention to begin the campout on August 21, defying the ban and calling for mass participation by individuals and groups who share their anti-militarist vision.
The protest comes at a time when Germany is planning one of the most ambitious military expansions in recent history, acquiring new armoured vehicles and fighter jets, and dramatically increasing its defence budget. What do you think about this military build-up?
