Following the seemingly never-ending wave of COVID-19/coronavirus news, we now have one more to add to the pile. Gamescom 2020, which was scheduled to take place at the end of August, will no longer proceed as a physical event. In fact, it will pivot to become a full digital event.
The change of events came after the German government’s extension of a ban on large gatherings through the end of August. This meant that unless Gamescom 2020 shifted further into the year, it was impossible to carry on as planned. The likes of E3 2020 and GDC 2020 have also suffered due to the pandemic.
That said, it will definitely be much safer for everyone involved, even if fans are excited in a year where both the PS5 and Xbox Series X are set to debut for the next-generation wave of consoles.
In a statement released on Twitter, the Gamescom 2020 team shared:
It’s official: unfortunately, Gamescom will under no circumstances take place on site in Cologne this year. Just like many of you, we are disappointed because as the Gamescom team, we have been working on a wonderful Gamescom 2020 for months. Just like the many exhibitors. However, it is also quite clear to us that, in the face of the corona pandemic, we must stand united. This means that we must all be considerate of each other and reduce the risk of infection.
We are, however, already working at full speed on a digital Gamescom. It is, after all, the world’s biggest event for games, and that’s what it should be again this year. You can already look forward to how we will celebrate the best games and Gamescom together with you and millions of gamers worldwide at the end of August. Even if it will only be digital and not on location this time. Because one thing is certain: this year, too, Gamescom is and will remain “the Heart of Gaming.”
We will reveal more about this in the next few weeks. Until then, stay healthy and don’t forget to #StayHomePlayTogether!
Fans who have purchased tickets can proceed to get their full refunds from the event venue, the Koelnmesse.
This could spell disaster for the inaugural Gamescom Asia set to take place this October here in Singapore as well. With the parent event shelving their plans, it remains to be seen if the Asian counterpart follows suit as countries continue to tighten security in lieu of the pandemic.
Jake is a full-time trophy hunter and achievement gatherer on consoles, and part-time Steam Sale victim. He has a thing for Batman and awesome statues, and running out of space for both. Send help.
Natalie
