Gamescom: Gamescom, GDC Europe Break Attendance Records

Gamescom 2013 was the biggest show yet, with 340,000 attendees. 29,600 of those who attended were trade visitors, including more than 6,000 journalists from 61 countries. Attendees from 88 countries were present, and attendance overall was up 23% compared to last year’s show.

“This was games entertainment and business in a new dimension,” said Gerald Bose, President and CEO of the Koelnmesse GmbH, where the show took place. “The Gamescom 2013 in Cologne has clearly underlined its position as the largest games trade fair. As organisers of the fair, we are delighted about this success and would like to thank the affiliated sponsor of the Gamescom, the Federal Association of Interactive Entertainment Software (BIU) as well as the national and international exhibitors and partners.”

Activision’s Destiny took the “Best of Gamescom” award at the show, also winning Best PlayStation Game, Best Action Game and Best Online Multiplayer Game. Titanfall was awarded Best Next-Gen Console Game and Best Xbox Game, while Mario Kart 8 took the prize for Best Nintendo Game.

GDC Europe, which took place concurrently with Gamescom, also saw its biggest year ever, with nearly 2,250 attendees from 56 countries.

"We were thrilled to see the bustling exhibit floor and receive such positive feedback about the valuable talks and networking opportunities at GDC Europe this year,” said GDC general manager Meggan Scavio. “We deeply appreciate the support of our exceptional roster of international speakers and the guidance of our celebrated advisory board members. And we’re already excited about next year!”

Next year’s Gamescom will take place between August 14-17, 2014. For a comparison of Gamescom attendance compared to last year, be sure to see our Gamescom wiki.

You can find all of our Gamescom coverage on our Gamescom hub, or check out select highlights below:

• Titanfall Hands-On Impressions
• Exploring the Darkness of Diablo III: Reaper of Souls
• The Fun of Running for Your Life in Dying Light
• The Remarkable World of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
• Battlefield 4's Graphics Lacking on PS4
• Prepare to Lose Your Life to PS4’s Resogun

Andrew Goldfarb is IGN’s news editor. Keep up with pictures of the latest food he’s been eating by following @garfep on Twitter or garfep on IGN.

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