An exclusive, closed-door executive forum will be held at the 'gamescom dev' conference in Cologne, Germany, to explore the changes and challenges facing the global games industry.

This 'Leadership Summit' is scheduled to take place on August 24 (local time) at the gamescom dev venue. Founders of major game companies, studio heads, C-suite executives, and key decision-makers will gather to have candid discussions and network regarding the recent wave of restructuring, AI integration, and the shifting business landscape in the industry.

The event will be hosted by Lars Janssen, CEO of DECK 13 and Chair of the board at the German Games Industry Association (game). Lars Janssen stated, "The most valuable leadership conversations rarely happen in front of hundreds of people," adding, "True dialogue begins when leaders can honestly discuss the tough decisions, uncertainty, and responsibility that come with leading studios and teams."

The keynote will be delivered by Amir Satvat, Business Development Director at Tencent Games and founder of ASGC. Under the theme 'Where Does This End?', he will address the current state of the game market and its future outlook amidst the restructuring, studio closures, and rapid industrial changes seen over the past few years.

In the following 'Fireside Chat', Luis Villegas, CTO of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), will join Lars Janssen for a discussion. Under the theme 'The Bets You Can't Take Back', he will share insights into the technical decision-making processes at PlayStation Studios, examining the long-term impact of key technological choices such as AI integration, game engine selection, and live service infrastructure.

The event will also feature panel discussions where leaders will address managing organizational change during uncertain times, recalibrating business priorities, and responding to the influence of AI. The program includes a 'Fishbowl' session for open debate and private networking opportunities.

Attendance at the gamescom dev Leadership Summit is limited to those with a special invitation or a 'gamescom dev VIP pass'. Additional speaker lineups and detailed program schedules will be released sequentially.