Gamescom 2022: Sony not there either – publisher cancels the fair

Sony is now also canceling Gamescom 2022 and is thus joining a long list. What that means exactly and who is still coming, you can read here.

Cologne – It could get pretty quiet at this year’s Gamescom from August 24th to 28th, because many well-known studios have already canceled their participation. The console manufacturer Sony had not yet commented on the fair in Cologne. But yesterday the group also announced its cancellation, as Gameswirtschaft announced on Twitter. So we can’t hope for announcements for the PS5 at the fair.

Gamescom 2022: Sony without news about God of War Ragnarok

No announcements by Sony. Due to Sony’s absence from Gamescom 2022, we won’t be getting any news on first-party games for the PlayStation. Fans had hoped in advance that Sony would finally announce an exact release date for God of War Ragnarök. What is certain is that the game will be released later this year. But when exactly we can plunge into the adventures with Kratos and Atreus again remains unclear.

There will also be no exclusive world premieres or gameplay updates from Sony at Gamescom: Opening Night Live, produced by Geoff Keighley. Participation in the opening show is strictly linked to presence at the trade fair.

In the past, Sony was one of the most important exhibitors at the fair. At Gamescom, the company presented, among other things, major brands such as Death Stranding, which was released for the PS4 at the time. At the fair, the company has been able to inspire thousands of fans for so many years.

Gamescom 2022 with empty halls? – Sony and other publishers refuse

These studios will also not participate. A number of major studios and publishers, such as Nintendo, have already canceled their participation in Gamescom 2022. Not appearing this year:

However, the company did not say why Sony canceled. One reason could be the rising corona numbers, but there is also speculation about the cost-benefit factor of the fair. Because for the exhibitors, the costs for rent, staff and accommodation can quickly run into the six or seven-digit range. Other marketing platforms such as TV advertising or live streams are therefore more worthwhile for some companies. But our own formats such as the “State of Play” are also becoming more and more interesting.

Sony could have used Gamescom to inspire their fans with exclusive content again, as they are very frustrated with the new PS Plus Premium subscription.

Gamescom 2022: You can look forward to these names

Don’t worry, it won’t stay empty. Of course, some exhibitors will also be present at Gamescom 2022. The currently 250 registered participants include:

Since many large companies will not be present at Gamescom 2022, there are likely to be some indie developers among the remaining exhibitors. This means that at the fair you have the chance to be presented with new and innovative game ideas and also to test them.

List of rubrics: © Koelnmesse GmbH / Sony (montage)