Gamescom, the world’s largest computer games fair, just got bigger, as this year’s instalment kicked off to large crowds in Cologne on Wednesday.

There’s something for everyone, be it strategy games, shooter battles or fantasy adventures.

Following an opening show on Tuesday evening, at which 5,000 fans were shown new game trailers, the computer and video game fair opened its doors in the morning.

More than 1,500 exhibitors are presenting their offerings to the public until Sunday, including studios such as CI Games, Keen Games and Bethesda.

This year’s record number of exhibitors surpasses the 1,462 exhibitors in 2024, when 335,000 visitors streamed to the Cologne exhibition halls. A similar turnout is expected this year.

Nintendo is there too, promoting its Switch 2 console. Such handhelds – devices with small displays – are a growing trend. They allow for a good gaming experience on the go or from the comfort of your arm chair, without being hooked up to a large display.

Tuesday evening’s big-screen show featured action-packed and dark themes. The first-person shooter game “Call of Duty – Black Ops 7” sends a team of up to four players into a post-apocalyptic future, where they must overcome the psychological terror of dark forces.

In “World of Warcraft – Midnight,” the focus is on a battle between elves and brutal creatures, while “Bloodlines 2” revolves around vampires.

The horror classic “Resident Evil” returns with a remake titled “Requiem,” showcasing the fight for survival against the undead.

The games showcased are set to be released in the coming months or in 2026. The previews aim to spark fans’ interest and willingness to spend.

-dpa