The organizers behind Gamescom say that notable publishers like Nintendo and Sony sitting out a show "isn't a negative sign" but rather a reflection of how their content and release pipeline looks at that very moment. After all, attending an event doesn't make sense if you don't have much to show or share about upcoming games. "It's common for publishers to reassess their participation in events like Gamescom each year," one of the events directors, Tim Endres, tells GamesRadar+ before this year's event kicked off.
"Nintendo's and Sony's absence isn't a negative sign. Nintendo participated in the first edition of Gamescom Latam this year, showcasing its ongoing engagement with Gamescom. Also, they returned in 2023 after a four-year hiatus, and 2K, as well as EA, are coming back in 2024, too.
"So, a company not being present doesn't mean they will never join again. It might just not fit their current marketing or release plan." Touching on Gamescom Latam, the trade show has recently expanded beyond Germany into Latin America and Asia.
While the lingering effects of COVID-19 have partly caused some other events like E3 to close their doors , one of Gamescom's directors, Stefan Heikhaus, tells us that expansion makes sense regardless as it strengthens the brand by ensuring a grander reach. "We've identified Latin America and Asia as two particularly exciting regions for the gaming industry," Heikhaus says. "These markets are crucial for many of our exhibitors, and we're committe.