The extensive list of delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic goes on and on, and with every single day, a new member joins. Whether it is a video game release, a major update, or a gaming convention. The latter is probably the most affected from the social distancing measures, with all indie and major conventions either canceled, delayed, or switched to a digital iteration. Gamescom's latest announcement officially reveals the cancellation of the event, and its switch to delivering the experience digitally.
Although there is no word from individual exhibitors on how they will handle their briefings during the Gamescom digital, it is expected publishers and developers will start confirming or denying their participation soon enough. As for those who already purchased tickets to the event, refunds are in the works. However, those who had planned flight tickets, if that was even possible, and hotel bookings, you will have to address them for refunds respectively.
Official statement regarding #gamescom2020 ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/fHaN4GOULM
— gamescom (@gamescom) April 16, 2020
We always got to see multiple new announcements, gameplay premiers, and new trailers for anticipated titles towards the end of the year. "The Heart of Gaming," as Gamescom has always been known as, promises to deliver a similar experience to the physical convention as much as they can. However, there is always an essence to these conventions that might be impossible to replicate in a digital environment, with all the cosplayers and enthusiastic gamers around you in one big place. Gamescom promises to deliver more information on how to attend, the events program, and more within in the next few days.
For those curious about Geoff Keighley's Gamescom Opening Night Live that was previously announced, Keighly announced it will proceed digitally:
With the physical @gameacom event not going forward, Gamescom: Opening Night Live will now be an all digital show, streaming live on Monday, August 24. https://t.co/kL2t50VnRA
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) April 16, 2020
Read more about how the COVID-19 novel coronavirus is affecting the gaming world at our Coronavirus Gaming Convention Cancellations and Game Delays Hub.
Are there any other conventions and gaming events that we could possible see adopt the digital approach? How long do you think the current COVID-19 situation will go on for? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
