For the first time in the history of gamescom, a German head of state has visited the world's biggest gaming event.

Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the President of Germany, delivered a speech at the Cologne Confex on August 27 in front of figures from the gaming industry, business, education, culture, politics, academia, and media, officially kicking off gamescom congress 2026.

During the opening speech, the President emphasized the significant social role of gaming. Games can help manage daily life as a stress reliever, a bridge to overcome loneliness, and a tool for cognitive training. At the same time, the President noted that games convey historical knowledge and civic education, leading players to ponder values, rules, and fair play in mutual relationships. The President urged society to more broadly harness the positive potential of solidarity, creativity, and energy expressed through play.

After the opening speech, the President attended two panel discussions dealing with the role of games in democracy. Both sessions deeply covered concrete examples of how games can contribute to a democratic society, aligning with this year's gamescom congress theme, 'Playing Field: Democracy'. Afterwards, the President went on a gamescom tour to chat with developers and community members, directly checking the positive impact of games on society, democracy, and culture.

Felix Falk, the Managing Director of game (The German Games Industry Association), said, "The visit by the Federal President is a clear message sent by gamescom regarding the special social value that games possess. Games, the companies and creators who make them, and the gaming community are positive driving forces leading society and democracy, which is clearly proven through gamescom and the gamescom congress. We must utilize this power much more actively."

Gerald Böse, the CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH, stated, "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to the Koelnmesse exhibition grounds. The President's visit is a great honor for us and a special signal showing the social importance held by gamescom and the gamescom congress. We are proud to provide an international platform where industry, politics, academia, media, and the community all gather together to emphasize the positive power of games."