How to Survive Gamescom

We’ve got some tried-and-true tips to help you prepare for Gamescom and get the most out of your experience.

Gamescom is the ultimate event for gaming fans and developers from around the world to celebrate the latest trends and innovations. As an exhibitor at this huge event, you’re part of the excitement. However, exhibiting can be challenging: crowds, hectic schedules, and the task of presenting your product in the best possible light – all of these need to be managed. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with tips to not only survive Gamescom but to rock it!

Gamescom 2024, Copyright by Maria Mannek

Equipment, Booth & Marketing

When it comes to setup and branding, there are a few important things to keep in mind, including security aspects as well as the representation of your indie studio.

  • Anything unsecured can be stolen or go missing. Avoid using gaming equipment like wireless controllers, Bluetooth mice, and Steam Decks.
  • Don’t leave smartphones and tablets unattended. Keep your valuables close to you or store them in a locker.
  • Add the name of your game or your website URL to your stickers and pins to provide essential information right away.
  • Use QR codes for social media and Steam wishlist links to make it even easier for visitors to find your game.

Presenting Your Game

Small details can make a big difference when it comes to showcase your game effectively:

  • Add a call to action like “Play now!” or “Press any key to play!” on your trailer or gameplay video to attract people to your station.
  • Add a timer to start a trailer or gameplay video in the main menu. Moving images attract eyes.
  • Limit playtime to 15-20 minutes at most. You don’t want people at your booth playing for half an hour.
  • After that, display a “Thanks for playing! Wishlist on Steam!/Sign up for our newsletter!” screen and reset.
  • Add a timer to trigger that reset after a certain period of inactivity (at least 30 seconds, probably 1 minute so people can talk while playing without losing progress).
  • Add a way to disable the time limit and reset in case you want to show your game to the press or a publisher.
  • If you have awesome game moments later in the demo, have cheats to get there immediately to show the press or publishers.

Gamescom 2024, Copyright by Maria Mannek

Hacks for Your Build

Indie games aren’t perfect – and no one expects them to be. The important thing is to be well-prepared in case of a crash and to react quickly. Here’s how:

  • Deactivate all ways to exit the game (you can even block Alt+F4), but…
  • …give yourself an easy way to exit the app in case it crashes.
  • Create a shortcut to the game on the desktop in case of a crash.
  • Add a super-fast reset to your build.

Making It Through

Exhibiting at Gamescom can be like running a marathon. To get through it, here are some behavioral rules to follow:

  • Always carry a water bottle and some snacks like bananas, granola bars, or protein bars for quick energy. Foods rich in magnesium help prevent leg cramps.
  • Eat healthy and stay hydrated.
  • Get your food and drinks beforehand at the hotel, a bakery, or a supermarket. Food and drinks at Gamescom are expensive and the lines are incredibly long.
  • Take breaks. Ideally, you’re there as a team and can take turns in shifts.
  • Be bold and open to making new contacts. Gamescom is perfect for networking and finding new partners and collaborations. On that note: Remember to check the indie business lounge, which is right beside the escalators!

Gamescom 2024, Copyright by Maria Mannek

Survival Must-Haves: Your Ultimate Checklist

You don’t realize what you should have brought until you actually need it. To make sure you don’t forget anything essential, here’s a handy checklist of must-haves:

  • Powerbank and charging stuff to keep your devices running
  • Blister plasters, because you’ll be walking a lot.
  • Chewing gum or mints for a pleasant breath.
  • Disposable washcloths and deodorant to stay fresh. 
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizer: The convention can be hot and stuffy, so hygiene is crucial.
  • Spare T-shirts and shoes, as your clothes will get sweaty faster than you think.
  • Headache pills, in case noise and overwhelming impressions give you a headache.
  • Throat lozenges, if you get hoarse from all the talking.
  • Water spray for face and body is perfect for a quick cool down.
  • Sunscreen is essential if you’ll be outdoors and visit the festival.
  • Spare hair ties and clips for long-haired people.
  • Electrolyte powder for the morning after…
  • Favorite stuffed animal, just in case there’s no one around from Home of Indies to give you a hug (which is highly unlikely!)

With these essentials, careful planning, and a good dose of perseverance, you’ll be set to make your Gamescom experience a huge success – and a lot of fun!

Let's connect !

Christiane Gehrke

Senior Event Communication & Sales Manager

FACTORY · C

Agentur für Messen & Kommunikation GmbH

+49 170 953 22 97

c.gehrke@factory-c.com

Contact booth constructor

EXEV GmbH Exhibition and Events
D-50859 Koeln

Tel. +49 2234 43 52 82 5
info@exev.tv
https://exev.tv/messebau/#gamescom

Contact press agency

keySquare Network UG & Co.KG
D-10439 Berlin

Tel. +49 30 43 73 44 88
info@keysquare.de
https://keysquare.de