Leipzig is dead, says Gamescom organiser

Cologne-based event Gamescom will take over from Leipzig Games Convention as the key European trade and consumer event in 2009, says a statement just released by the organiser of the new BIU-backed show.

While Leipzig Games Convention was declared a huge success and attracted over 200,000 people this year, German publisher association the BIU has backed Gamescom for 2009 – and its organiser Koelnmesse has made it crystal clear that the new Cologne show will be the only event the trade is backing.

Oliver P. Kuhrt, managing director of Gamescom organiser Koelnmesse, said in the statement:

It was to be expected that the Leipzig trade fair would try to keep the topic in its 2009 programme as well by announcing its date. But they will have to do it without the industry for the most part. The lead trade fair will take place in Cologne in 2009 and beyond.”

From Leipzig we are bringing the clear message that the games industry will be exhibiting in 2009 in Cologne at gamescom. We have met with broad approval, and the industry is looking forward to gathering in Cologne. Whatever happens in Germany in 2009 outside of Cologne cannot claim to represent this sector.”

Terming the show as the ‘new European games platform for the international games community’, Koelnmesse confirmed that the event will take place from September 9th-13th 2009 with the BIU’s full backing. The trade element will take place on the opening day (September 9th).

The statement continues: The trade visitors area in Halls 4 and 5 at the Cologne exhibition centre is the new communication and trading platform for the international games industry."

"Designed as a compact unit, the area offers the participants from trade and industry, media and development optimal conditions that will allow them to enter into dialogue with one another.”