gamescom 2017: Plan Your Visit

gamescom 2017 is rapidly approaching, so it's time to wrap up your preparations! You've got to keep in mind that planning your trip, booking the hotel, and getting tickets are not the only things that need your attention. In fact, it would be wise to prepare yourself for when you finally reach the Koelnmesse’s grounds.

Remember that gamescom is one of the world's biggest gaming events, with thousands of visitors arriving every day, so it may be difficult for you to navigate the massive crowds and see everything you want to see. Therefore, we have prepared this handy, definitive guide to help you to make your visit as pleasant and efficient as humanly possible:

1. Pre-planning

Many visitors have a very limited timeframe for their visit at the Koelnmesse – usually a day or two. We advise you to set priorities for the booths and games you wish to visit, check their locations when you’re still at home, and head there immediately upon your arrival.

You can find our stage schedule for gamescom here.

2. The early bird...

Thousands of visitors come by every day at gamescom, resulting in massive queues from the very beginning. Arriving early may secure you a good starting position, so that you get to try out your favourite games before others and without having to wait for too long.

3. Photos at the booth

When taking photos with hostesses, cosplayers, booth designs, and stage activities, please keep in mind that it is much faster taking a photo with someone at the booth than getting a good spot in the queue. If your primary goal is to test the game, go for that first and take pictures once you’re done.

4. Surroundings and other visitors

As it is very easy to get disoriented and lost in the sea of people, take a map of the halls when entering, and look out for signs in the halls. Should you get lost, consult the hall numbers with your map and get yourself back on track in no time.

Also, be aware of the people around you – avoid sudden movements, or else you may bump into someone or something, and injure yourself or other people accidentally. Please be considerate, especially when under the stage, where the crowd is thickest and emotions the most heated.

5. Stay hydrated

Make sure you always carry something to drink with you. Being a part of the crowd means it will take much more time than normal not only to play your desired game, but also to move between halls, and to buy something to eat and drink. It is very important to keep yourself hydrated, especially if it’s a typically hot August day.

6. Wristbands for younger gamers

Wargaming games have a USK rating of 12 years and above, so any minor must wear the corresponding wristband in order to enjoy our vast array of games. Unfortunately, any child without the appropriate wristband will be be turned away (even if an adult takes responsibility for him/her). Don't be left disappointed!

Find more information about this on the official gamescom page.

7. Security precautions at the event

For security reasons, the event hosts advise you to leave backpacks or bags at home, unless you really need them. Before entering the venue, visitors will need to go through a security check, and bringing a backpack will delay not only you, but everyone in the queue.

Find out more information here.

If you're looking to follow all the latest goings-on via social media, don't forget to use relevant hashtags such as #WargamingGC. As usual, all of our social media platforms will be lit up throughout all five days, and you can keep up to date by checking our official Facebook page too!

Come prepared and surf the queues like a pro!