Every year in August, Cologne transforms into the Mecca of the computer and video game world for four days: Gamescom. This globally important trade fair attracts numerous visitors, including many children and young people with a passion for gaming.
Gamescom is Europe’s largest trade fair for interactive entertainment and is one of the most important in the world. Thousands of games enthusiasts from all over the world meet here. The focus is on computer and video games, their developers and the gaming community. Among other things, new games are presented on the large exhibition grounds, gameplay scenes are presented on live stages, there are lectures and shows, game corners, workshops and interviews with game developers. At some events, visitors can not only watch, but also play themselves.
gamescom 2024 will take place in Cologne from August 21 to 25, 2024.
Visiting Gamescom is a special experience for adolescents in different age groups. Everything revolves around gaming. You can discover lots of things and try out new games – if you want to queue up in the long lines.
For children up to 11 years old, there is a “Family & Friends” area where everything is tailored to the needs of the age group. This area is designed to be as stress-free as possible and offers a particularly wide range of variety and hands-on activities, such as play stations and a “Junior Club” where toddlers are guided by trained caregivers.
A key reason why young people are keen to attend Gamescom is the opportunity to see their favorite YouTubers and Let’s Players live. These stars of the scene are often on site and offer their fans exclusive meet-and-greets. There is a new feature this year: anyone wishing to visit the “Signing Area” this year must book a free time slot in advance.
Walking around Gamescom without adult supervision is the epitome of independence for many children. As a general rule, children under the age of 3 are not admitted to the fair. If your child is between 4 and 11 years old, they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. In fact, you should think carefully about whether your child can already handle the many stimuli at such an event.
Some parents with children under the age of 12 should make sure that their child is only allowed to play games that are appropriate for their age. At Gamescom, games for all ages may theoretically be presented, but in practice careful selection and attention is paid. are presented. Upon admission, each visitor will receive an age bracelet with different colors, analogous to the USK age ratings (12, 16 or 18 years), upon presentation of a photo ID. The USK checks every publicly presented game at Gamescom, so everything is clearly marked with the appropriate age limits. For games with a USK 16 or 18 rating, stand personnel must ensure that they are not actually visible or accessible to children – e.g. by providing privacy screens or separate rooms. Youth protection is a top priority here, as the Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body (USK) is the official youth protection partner of Gamescom: at the entrance and at numerous stands within the event, every visitor will receive an age band with different colors, analogous to the USK age ratings (12, 16 or 18 years), upon presentation of a photo ID. The USK has checked every game publicly presented at Gamescom and every visible trailer so that everything is clearly marked with the appropriate age rating. For games and trailers with a USK 16 or 18, stand personnel must ensure that they are not actually visible or accessible to children – e.g. by providing privacy screens or separate rooms.
If your child is over 11 years old and independent enough to discover Gamescom on their own, you should still arrange a meeting point and time in each hall where the family can meet again briefly. Gamescom is very crowded, so it’s easy to feel lost. Also make sure that your child’s smartphone has enough battery or give them a piece of paper with your name and phone number on it. This is also recommended if, after careful consideration, you decide to allow your child (aged 12 or over) to visit Gamescom with friends without adult supervision. Also, arrange a set time and place to pick up your child. Also, keep in mind that food and beverage prices at trade shows are often relatively high.
