Gamescom 2025 officially opened with its Opening Night Live(ONL) event in Cologne, delivering a mix of global premieres, gameplay reveals, and major updates from industry leaders and indie studios.
Hosted by Geoff Keighley and esports personality Sjokz, the show highlighted the diversity and momentum of the gaming industry.
(Source: Gamescom)
Major Announcements
Black Myth: Zhong Kui
Game Science expanded its Black Myth universe with a new hero—Zhong Kui, the legendary demon hunter.
While still early in development, the reveal suggested a darker, folklore-driven adventure that continues the studio's ambition to bring Chinese mythology into the global spotlight.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Treyarch's latest entry showcased intense firefights across Tokyo, Alaska, and Avalon.
With its release set for November 14, 2025, the game promises a cinematic campaign and expansive multiplayer modes across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Resident Evil: Requiem
Capcom unveiled the ninth mainline Resident Evil with a dramatic trailer highlighting both first- and third-person gameplay.
Launching February 27, 2026, this installment looks to blend survival horror roots with modern mechanics.
World of Warcraft: The Last Nightfall
Blizzard's next expansion teased a looming Voidstorm and darker themes for Azeroth.
Slated for 2026, it marks a new era for the MMO that continues to shape online worlds more than two decades after its debut.
Silent Hill f
Konami returned with a haunting vision of 1960s rural Japan.
The eerie atmosphere and unsettling visuals promise a deeply psychological horror experience when it arrives on September 25, 2025.
Gameplay & Crossovers
Monster Hunter Wilds x Final Fantasy XIV
Capcom and Square Enix revealed a crossover bringing monsters and characters into each other's worlds. The event begins in September, offering fresh hunts and challenges for both communities.
Indiana Jones and the Circle of Ancients
Indy's adventure expands with the Order of Giants DLC, arriving September 4, 2025.
Bethesda also confirmed a Switch 2 release in 2026, widening the game's reach.
Arknights: Endfield
Hypergryph showcased extended gameplay for its futuristic RPG. Planned for PS5, PC, and mobile, the title blends strategic combat with a richly imagined sci-fi setting.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
After years of anticipation, Team Cherry finally put Silksong into players' hands with a playable demo on the show floor, marking a milestone for one of indie gaming's most awaited releases.
Fortnite x Squid Game
Epic Games tapped into pop culture with a crossover inspired by Netflix's hit series.
Launching August 26, it introduces survival-style maps designed to echo the show's tense challenges.
Publisher Highlights
Activision Blizzard
From Black Ops 7 to the next World of Warcraft expansion, Activision Blizzard demonstrated the enduring pull of its flagship franchises, aiming to capture both competitive and MMO audiences.
Capcom
Capcom's showing was headlined by Resident Evil: Requiem and Monster Hunter Wilds.
Both underline the company's strategy of reinforcing legacy franchises while expanding gameplay depth.
EA Sports
EA Sports FC 26 was confirmed for a September 26, 2025 release.
Fans at Gamescom could try the new build firsthand, highlighting the publisher's emphasis on keeping its football series at the center of global esports.
Chinese Developers
Studios such as Game Science, Tencent, Hypergryph, and MiHoYo presented projects spanning RPGs and open worlds.
Their presence reinforced how Chinese game development is becoming a major global force.
Indie Highlights
ZERO PARADES
ZA/UM, known for Disco Elysium, surprised audiences with the reveal of ZERO PARADES, a new CRPG that promises deep narrative design and branching choices.
Shadow Blade Zero and Beyond
Other indies such as Shadow Blade Zero brought unique blends of wuxia and steampunk to the floor, drawing attention for their fresh aesthetics and international debuts.
Gamescom Awards 2025
This year's nominations were announced, with Resident Evil: Requiem leading with five categories.
Genshin Impact continued its streak with a third consecutive nomination for Best Ongoing Game, underscoring its staying power.
Editor's Comments
Gamescom 2025 Opening Night Live underscored the industry's strong momentum, balancing blockbuster sequels with innovative indie projects.
The presence of major crossovers and new adaptations—such as Fortnite x Squid Game and the Sekiro anime—reflects how gaming continues to expand into mainstream culture.
Meanwhile, the growing influence of Chinese studios highlights the shifting landscape of global development.
With 2026 already lined up for multiple AAA releases, the industry appears poised for one of its most ambitious years yet.
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