2025 Gamescom Booth Registration & Location Tips

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How to Book a Booth at Gamescom 2025

With thousands of gamers and industry professionals gathering at Gamescom every year, proper preparation is key to running a successful booth. As the early bird deadline approaches, inquiries from game companies have surged, particularly regarding booth registration, location selection, and exhibition regulations.

In our previous guide, we covered Gamescom’s key information. Now, let’s dive into how to book a booth at Gamescom 2025 and strategic tips for securing the best location.

The Earlier, The Better:
Gamescom Booth Application

• • Early Bird Registration Deadline: February 21, 2025
• • Regular Registration Deadline: July 9, 2025

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How much does it cost to book a Gamescom booth early?

1. • Discounted Booth Fees – Gamescom early bird applicants receive an estimated 10% discount compared to regular registration.
2. • Priority in Booth Location Selection – The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a high-traffic location.

Applying late significantly reduces the chances of getting an ideal booth spot. Regular exhibitors are often assigned priority locations, while late applicants are allocated remaining spaces after the initial placements are completed.

Gamescom Booth Location Tips:
High-Traffic Areas & Visitor Flow

The Gamescom 2024 hall plan highlights the busiest visitor pathways inside the venue. Reviewing past layouts can help you choose the best booth location.

• • 2023 B2C Halls: 6, 8, 9, 10 (Event Hall: 7)
• • 2024 B2C Halls: 6, 7, 9, 10 (Event Hall: 8)
• • 2025 B2C Layout: Subject to change

Most general visitors enter through the North Entrance of Koelnmesse, and booths located along the main pathway highlighted in the floor plan naturally benefit from higher foot traffic. In particular, visitors heading toward Hall 10 tend to use the passage connecting Hall 9, making it a key area for maximizing visibility

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💡 Key Booth Location Tips

📍 North Entrance → Hall 8 (Event Area) → Main Pathway → Halls 6, 7, 9 (B2C Area) → Hall 10 (Indie Games Area)
If your booth is in Hall 10, choose a location close to the Hall 9 connection for maximum visitor flow.

2025 Gamescom Booth Cost

All booth applications must be submitted through the official Gamescom website. Since pricing varies based on booth type and size, careful planning is essential.

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Types of Booths & Pricing Factors

• • B2B-only vs. B2C+B2B participation impacts cost and eligibility.
• • Booth types such as Corner Stand or Island Stand have different pricing structures.

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Mandatory Additional Fees

In addition to the base rental fee, mandatory additional charges apply:

• • Energy Fee – €16.00 per sqm (covers electricity & facility usage)
• • AUMA Fee – €0.60 per sqm (German trade fair promotion fund)
• • Gamescom Now Package – Marketing & promotional fee (€975 for B2C booths, €330 for B2B booths)

These costs are automatically calculated when applying via the Gamescom business website. Once you enter details like your booth size, type, and registration date, the system will calculate the total cost based on various pricing factors.

See the example below for a detailed cost breakdown.

Essential Booth Application Rules

Before applying, keep in mind the following:

1. 1. B2C booth required for consumer-targeted (end-user) games.
2. 2. B2B booth size must not exceed 1.5x the B2C booth size. For example, if your B2C booth is 50 sqm, your B2B booth can be up to 75 sqm.
3. 3. Booth assignments are determined by the organizer.

Once your booth application is confirmed, it’s time to focus on design, installation approvals, and compliance. Working with an experienced agency can streamline the process and help avoid complications.

Eidetic Marketing – Your Gamescom B2B Partner

We are an experienced agency specializing in Gamescom marketing, helping game companies maximize their global reach and KPIs with strategic planning and execution.

Having worked with major gaming companies from the US, Korea, and China, EIDETIC offers unique advantages:

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Why Work with EIDETIC for Gamescom 2025?

• ✔️ In-House Expertise: Unlike ad agencies or third-party event firms, EIDETIC has dedicated teams for planning, marketing, and design, ensuring seamless communication and execution.
• ✔️ Local Team in Germany: With staff based in Cologne, we navigate complex local regulations and logistics, minimizing risk for exhibitors.
• ✔️ Multilingual Event Staff: Gamescom attracts diverse attendees, making experienced multilingual staff essential. Our team ensures smooth interactions with international gamers and industry professionals.

💡 Explore More Gamescom Work

💡 Behind-the-Scenes at Gamescom with EIDETIC!

Gamescom’s Popularity Continues to Rise

The early bird registration for Gamescom 2025, the world’s largest gaming exhibition, closed on February 21.
Gamescom continues to set new records each year, with increasing exhibitors and visitors. In 2024, a lot of game companies, including Hoyoverse, Bandai Namco, and Krafton, showcased their latest titles to European gamers. Let’s take a look at some of last year’s impressive numbers:

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3,060,000 sqft exhibition space
335,000 attendees from 120 countries
1,462 companies from 64 countries
1.5 million ONL live viewers
540 million ONL total online views

We attended Gamescom in 2023 and 2024 as part of exhibition projects, witnessing firsthand the event’s massive impact on the gaming industry. With growing anticipation for this year’s participating companies, we’ve compiled key information to help businesses prepare for Gamescom 2025.

Gamescom 2025 Schedule & Key Programs

Gamescom 2025 will take place from August 20 to 24 in Cologne, kicking off with Opening Night Live (ONL) on August 19.
Since B2B and B2C schedules differ, check the table below for details.

 

Gamescom Date	Devcom	ONL (Opening Night Live)	B2B	B2C	Event
8/18 (MON)	9:00-19:00
8/19 (TUE)		20:00-22:00
8/20 (WED)			9:00-19:00 (7:00-20:00 for exhibitors)	Media Day 9:00-19:00 (7:00-20:00 for exhibitors)
8/21 (THU)			9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors)	9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors) General adminssion from 10am	12:00- Varies by event schedule
8/22 (FRI)
8/23 (SAT)				9:00-20:00 (7:00-21:00 for exhibitors)
8/24 (SUN)
*Gamescom City Festival: 8/22(FRI)-8/24(SUN)

Beyond the exhibition halls, Gamescom is a festival featuring diverse events across the city. Since last year, the Gamescom City Festival has taken over Rudolfplatz and Hohenzollernring, with live performances, gaming showcases, and food markets adding to the excitement.

Additionally, many game developers and publishers leverage the Gamescom Awards as a major marketing tool. Game studios can submit their upcoming titles online throughout July, with nominees announced on opening day in August. The awards ceremony, typically held on the final Friday of Gamescom, is a powerful way to generate buzz before a game’s release.

Gamescom Opening Night Live (ONL)

Gamescom ONL: A Global Branding Opportunity

ONL isn’t just an opening ceremony—it’s a global marketing event live-streamed on Twitch, YouTube, and Gamescom’s official website. Major game studios use ONL to debut trailers, with developers taking the stage to share insights about their games.

In 2024, Hoyoverse showcased Zenless Zone Zero, Bandai Namco unveiled Tekken 8, and Krafton introduced Dark and Darker. The event’s massive reach makes it a prime opportunity for game marketing.

Gamescom 2025 ONL Sponsorship & Costs

Only exhibitors with a minimum booth size of 100m² can apply for ONL sponsorship. Pricing is based on video length:

While the cost is significant, the exposure is unparalleled—ONL viewership exceeds 540 million. Because ONL shapes the first impression of a game, developers should create high-impact trailers and strategically plan content if showcasing multiple IPs.

Gamescom’s Massive Exhibition Hall – Koelnmesse

Gamescom takes place at Koelnmesse, spanning 3,060,000 sqft, making it one of the largest gaming expos in the world.
For comparison, Anime Expo is held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, which is 720,000 sqft—Gamescom’s venue is more than four times larger.

Gamescom Hall Plan

• [B2B Area] → Hall 2, 3, 4
• [B2C Area] → Hall 6, 7, 9, 10
• [Merchandise Area] → Hall 5
• [Event Area] → Hall 8

📍 Note: B2C hall assignments may change based on exhibitors and booth sizes. In 2023, Halls 6, 8, 9, and 10 were used for B2C, while Hall 7 hosted events.

📍 Tip: Koelnmesse is huge and maze-like, so save a digital map on your phone. The venue has multiple entrances (East, West, North, South)—plan your route accordingly.

How to Get the Best Booth Location at Gamescom 2025

Game companies planning to exhibit should apply during the early bird period (~Feb 21) to secure a better booth location and save on costs.

High-Traffic Booth Placement

Companies with well-placed booths gain higher visitor engagement. Last year, HYBE’s booth strategically positioned near key traffic zones saw strong foot traffic.

Booths can only be registered through Gamescom’s official website.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll cover step-by-step booth application tips and expert insights!

Eidetic Marketing – Your Gamescom B2B Partner

We are an experienced agency specializing in Gamescom marketing, helping game companies maximize their global reach and KPIs with strategic planning and execution.

Having worked with major gaming companies from the US, Korea, and China, EIDETIC offers unique advantages:

Why Work with EIDETIC for Gamescom 2025?

• ✔️ In-House Expertise: Unlike ad agencies or third-party event firms, EIDETIC has dedicated teams for planning, marketing, and design, ensuring seamless communication and execution.
• ✔️ Local Team in Germany: With staff based in Cologne, we navigate complex local regulations and logistics, minimizing risk for exhibitors.
• ✔️ Multilingual Event Staff: Gamescom attracts diverse attendees, making experienced multilingual staff essential. Our team ensures smooth interactions with international gamers and industry professionals.

💡 Behind-the-Scenes at Gamescom with EIDETIC!

With a track record of delivering exceptional results, EIDETIC ensures your vision aligns with execution for a successful Gamescom experience.

✨ Stay tuned for exclusive insights from our Gamescom 2025 projects!

Eidetic Marketing Gamescom Works

Top 5 Global Exhibitions in Germany – Second Half of 2025

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Following our previous exploration of Germany’s top exhibitions in the first half of 2025, we now turn our attention to the major events happening in the latter half of the year. Germany continues to lead the world in innovation, offering global platforms for industries ranging from gaming and home appliances to mobility, food, and healthcare. These exhibitions showcase cutting-edge advancements and foster collaboration among industry leaders, providing invaluable opportunities for participants and visitors alike. Let’s dive into the highlights of Germany’s top exhibitions for the second half of 2025.

Previous Content: Top 5 Global Exhibitions in Germany

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1. Gamescom:
The Biggest Gaming Convention in the World

• Location: Koelnmesse
• Dates: August 20–24, 2025
• Frequency: Annual
• Type: B2C
• Attendance (2024): 335,000 attendees from 120 countries

Gamescom, held annually in Cologne, is the world’s largest gaming convention. It serves as a premier destination for gaming enthusiasts, developers, and publishers to experience the latest in video games, virtual reality, and gaming technology.

A Global Platform for Gamers

Since its debut in Cologne in 2009, Gamescom has evolved into the definitive event for the gaming industry, replacing the former Games Convention in Leipzig. Organized by the association of the German games industry and Koelnmesse, the event attracts over 1,000 exhibitors and 335,000 attendees annually. Gamescom uniquely combines a business zone for industry networking with an entertainment zone where fans can playtest the latest games.

Explore our portfolio: Gamescom BMW

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2. IFA Berlin:
The Global Stage for Consumer Electronics

• Location: Messe Berlin
• Dates: September 5–9, 2025
• Frequency: Annual
• Type: B2C
• Attendance (2024): 215,000 attendees from 138 countries

IFA Berlin is the world’s leading consumer electronics exhibition, offering a glimpse into the future of smart appliances, home automation, and wearable technologies.

A Legacy of Innovation

IFA, short for Internationale Funkausstellung, originally meant “International Radio Exhibition,” reflecting its early focus on wireless communication and radio technology. Since its debut in 1924, IFA has stood at the forefront of technological evolution, serving as a platform for groundbreaking innovations.

One of the most notable moments in IFA’s history came in 1930 when renowned physicist Albert Einstein took the stage as a keynote speaker. His speech explored the transformative power of electromagnetic waves and radio technology, offering a visionary perspective on how science and communication could shape the future. This milestone solidified IFA’s role not just as a trade show, but as a hub for scientific and technological progress.

Throughout the decades, IFA has continued to be a launchpad for world-changing innovations. In the 1930s, it showcased the world’s first television broadcast equipment. By the 1980s, it introduced personal computers to a global audience. From its origins in radio to its expansion into television, computing, mobile devices, and smart home technology, IFA has consistently reflected and driven the evolution of consumer electronics.

Explore our IFA portfolio: 2024 IFA Midea

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3. IAA: International Motor Show

1) IAA Mobility

• Location: Messe München
• Dates: September 9–14, 2025
• Frequency: Biennial
• Type: B2C
• Attendance (2023): 500,000 attendees from 110 countries

IAA Mobility in Munich is a pioneering exhibition redefining transportation with a focus on sustainability, smart mobility, and autonomous driving technologies.

Shaping the Future of Mobility

First held in 1897, IAA has evolved to encompass a comprehensive view of mobility solutions beyond traditional automobiles. With live demonstrations and immersive exhibits, IAA showcases innovations in electric vehicles, hydrogen technology, and urban mobility infrastructure. Attendees can witness firsthand how these advancements are transforming global transportation.

2) IAA Transportation

• Location: Hannover Messe (Messegelände, Hermes Allee, 30521 Hannover)
• Dates: September 15–20, 2026
• Frequency: Biennial
• Type: B2B
• Attendance (2024): 145,000 attendees from 116 countries

IAA Transportation is the world’s leading exhibition for commercial vehicles and logistics, showcasing innovations in trucks, buses, vans, and supply chain solutions. Originally part of IAA Mobility, it became an independent event in 1991 to address the growing needs of the transport and logistics industries. Held biennially at Hannover Messe, the exhibition brings together manufacturers, fleet operators, and industry leaders to explore advancements in sustainable mobility, automated driving, and smart logistics.

With a strong focus on electric and hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles, digital transformation, and efficiency in supply chains, IAA Transportation serves as a key platform for shaping the future of logistics and mobility. Through live demonstrations, expert discussions, and networking opportunities, the event continues to drive innovation and global collaboration in commercial transportation.

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4. Anuga: The Food Industry’s Global Hub

• Location: Köln Messe
• Dates: October 4–8, 2025
• Frequency: Biennial
• Type: B2B
• Attendance (2023): 140,000 attendees from 200 countries

Anuga is the world’s largest food and beverage exhibition, serving as a vital platform for showcasing trends in sustainable food production, plant-based innovations, and smart packaging solutions.

10 Shows Under One Roof

Anuga’s unique structure divides the exhibition into 10 specialized trade shows, ranging from frozen food to organic products. This segmentation allows exhibitors and attendees to engage deeply with specific sectors while exploring cross-industry innovations.

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5. Medica: Advancing Global Healthcare

• Location: Messe Düsseldorf
• Dates: November 17–20, 2025
• Frequency: Annual
• Type: B2B
• Attendance (2024): 80,000 attendees from 72 countries

Medica is the premier global exhibition for the medical device and healthcare industries, presenting cutting-edge advancements in diagnostics, surgical tools, and digital health solutions.

A Hub for Medical Innovation

Medica serves not only as a showcase for cutting-edge medical technology but also as a vital platform for knowledge exchange in the healthcare industry. Throughout the exhibition, various forums and conferences provide opportunities for industry leaders to discuss the latest research findings and technological advancements, shaping the future of medical innovation.

Key programs include the Medica Health IT Forum, which focuses on digital healthcare and medical data solutions, the Medica Tech Forum, which highlights new medical technologies and case studies of innovation, and the Medica Innovation Forum, which explores IoT-driven smart medical solutions and connected healthcare. These discussions foster collaboration between experts, researchers, and industry professionals, driving progress in global healthcare.

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Germany: A Global Exhibition Powerhouse

Germany’s global exhibitions for the second half of 2025 highlight the country’s pivotal role in driving innovation and collaboration across diverse industries. From gaming and electronics to mobility and healthcare, these events provide a window into the future, offering unmatched opportunities to network, learn, and grow.

Each of these exhibitions offers unique insights and trends shaping their respective industries. In the coming updates, we will dive deeper into individual events, exploring their history, key highlights, and what makes them essential for professionals and businesses worldwide. Stay tuned for more in-depth coverage on these influential global exhibitions in Germany.

Gamescom Tips for Exhibitors A-Z, from Parking to Store

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Essential Tips from a Gamescom Agency

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Gamescom Tip 1: Entrance for Exhibitors

If you have received your Gamescom ticket via email, it’s a good idea to save the ticket image on your phone. When entering the exhibition hall, note that the entrances for exhibitors and visitors are different. Show your mobile ticket to the staff and enter through the exhibitor line (EXH line).
The visitor entrance line can be extremely long. 👯👯👯👯👯

Once inside the venue, you’ll see a scanner for QR codes, similar to a subway turnstile. If you arrive before the official opening time, use the far-left lane designated for exhibitors. Simply tag your mobile ticket’s QR code at the scanner, and your ticket will be printed, allowing you to enter immediately.

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Gamescom Tip 2: Prepare a Name Tag Case

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Gamescom provides only a lanyard but does not include a name tag case. If you attach the paper ticket directly to the lanyard and wear it around, it can quickly become tattered and torn as you walk around the exhibition. Be prepared to bring a name tag case in advance, keeping your ticket intact!

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Gamescom Tip 3: Parking

During Gamescom, when exhibitors and visitors flock to the event, finding parking can become quite a challenge. There are several parking lots around the exhibition center, and purchasing a parking ticket in advance can save you a lot of time and hassle. Simply place the ticket on your vehicle’s dashboard, and the parking attendants will check and guide you accordingly.

• • How to Apply: Visit the Gamescom official site and navigate to the Service Shop
• • Parking Fee: If you apply in advance, the total cost for the entire Gamescom period (5 days) is 41 euros. (excl.VAT)
• • Without Advance Application: The daily rate is 20 euros (2023).
• • Construction Period: Free parking.
• • Ticket Receipt: Tickets will be sent by mail from the administrative office.

The parking permit is only valid in original form; copies or photos are not permitted.

The ticket will indicate ‘P21,’ which denotes the specific parking area. After checking the location on the map on the back of the ticket, you can only park in the designated area. The administrative office assigns locations close to the halls for convenience.

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Gamescom Tip 4: Closest Store

Last year, we were in charge of BMW’s exhibition marketing at Gamescom. On the first day of the event, we prepared some wine and snacks, understanding the local game show culture and proposing the idea to BMW. The enjoyable gathering served as the launch signal for introducing the AirConsole gaming platform featured in the new BMW i5.

If you suddenly need a wine opener🍷 or additional snacks🍪, head to Lidl, a German grocery chain located just a 5-minute walk from the exhibition center. Most items you might need but can’t find within the venue can be quickly sourced from Lidl, making it a practical stop for event organizers.

Google Maps

Gamescom Tip 5: Are You Looking for an Iced Americano?

In Europe, it can be challenging to find an iced americano unless you’re at Starbucks. Europeans typically enjoy the pure taste of coffee, so an espresso diluted with water is considered a foreign drink, and “iced” versions are even rarer.

The same holds true in Cologne, where most large restaurants only serve hot coffee. However, there is one exception! You can find iced americano from a self-service coffee machine. 😉

At the entrance between Hall 8 and Halls 6 and 7, you’ll spot a restaurant where Gamescom operates a self-service coffee machine. An iced americano is so popular that it’s often sold out before 3PM. Although it’s not the quickest machine, and there might be a wait, every minute counts. So, be sure to place your order early!

We look forward to another exciting and successful Gamescom this year!

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Previous: 2024 Gamescom Exhibitors Guide (Booking, Schedule, Service)
Next: Where is the best meeting place in the hall and all around?!

2024 Gamescom Exhibitors Guide (booking, schedule, service)

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Welcome to the comprehensive guide for exhibitors at Gamescom 2024. This guide will provide essential information to ensure a successful and smooth experience at one of the world’s largest gaming conventions.

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Increasing Exhibitors

As of February 29, 2024, early bird registration for Gamescom 2024 has closed. This year, Gamescom has seen a 21% increase in the number of exhibitors compared to its record-breaking year in 2019. This represents a 28% increase over 2023, with a 66% rise in booked exhibition space. A total of 42 countries have registered early, with many participating through national pavilions. Confirmed participants include South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Belgium, France, Greece, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and Turkey.

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Gamescom Exhibitors Guide #1
Schedule

The official schedule for 2024 Gamescom is from Wednesday, August 21 to Sunday, August 25.

The event will have separate schedules for the B2B (Business Area) and B2C (Entertainment Area) sectors. Please refer to the following table for details:

• • B2B (Business Area): Open for business meetings and networking.
• • B2C (Entertainment Area): Open for general public entertainment and consumer engagement.

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Gamescom Exhibitors Guide #2
Exhibition Hall

Gamescom is held at the massive Koelnmesse exhibition center, covering an area of 700,000 square meters, making it the largest gaming show globally. The exhibition is divided into B2C, B2B, merch store, and event areas.

• • B2B Halls: Halls 2-4
• • B2C Halls: Halls 6-10
• • Merchandise Hall: Hall 5
• • Gamescom ONL¹ Event: Hall 7

You’d better download the following Gamescom hall plan images on your phone in advance!

Navigating the vast Koelnmesse center can be challenging, so it is advisable to save the map on your phone. Entry points are located at the east, west, south, and north gates.

Other useful links and downloads

Make sure to determine which entrance is closest to your destination hall. Maps are also available at hall entrances, where “Level 1” and “Level 2” indicate the floors.

Since the B2B area spans multiple floors, plan your movements with ample time, especially if you have scheduled meetings. For shortcuts, refer to the additional post linked in the guide.

Gamescom Exhibitors Guide #3
Booking a Booth

With the early bird period concluded, booth applications now follow regular pricing. Booth costs at Gamescom include rental fees, energy costs, deposits (facility usage fees), and mandatory contributions to the German Trade Fair Industry Fund.

Gamescom Booth prices vary based on type (e.g., corner stand, island stand), so calculate costs on the Gamescom business site before applying.

Booth applications are only accepted online. Note that costs differ if you only rent a B2B booth, so verify prices on the site in advance. Key regulations for booth rental include:

1. B2B rental cannot exceed 1.5 times the B2C rental area.
2. Consumer-related (end-user) game companies must apply for a B2C booth to rent a B2B booth.
3. Booth allocation is at the discretion of the organizer.
4. Deposits (facility usage fees) are settled after the exhibition concludes.

Once your booth rental is confirmed, it’s just the beginning. Ensure you understand booth installation regulations, design restrictions, and undergo the design approval process.
Working with an agency can help navigate these requirements efficiently.

Order services

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Gamescom Agency: Eidetic Marketing

Eidetic Marketing, the agency behind successful campaigns for HYBE IM and BMW at Gamescom 2023, combines global talent and local trends to help game companies achieve their KPIs. Our strategic planning aligns with on-ground execution, delivering seamless and effective results.

Given the diverse international audience at Gamescom, multilingual staff are crucial. Our global team speaks English, German, Japanese, Chinese, and French, ensuring smooth communication and engagement with visitors. Our positive energy and cohesive teamwork resonate well with attendees.

As a dedicated Gamescom agency, our strengths lie in trend-aligned exhibition planning and robust execution. From operational know-how to dining recommendations, our extensive local knowledge adds significant value.

We look forward to another exciting and successful Gamescom this year!

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Next: Gamescom Real Tips for Exhibitors From Parking to Store

1. Opening Night Live ↩︎