Gamescom 2013 begins this week in Cologne, Germany, and though it may be across the ocean, the expo represents a critical four days for gamers. Microsoft is going to have a heavy presence at the event, and Sony has dropped hints that they will discuss when the PlayStation 4 will become available. Follow along as we bring you a preview of the four day event.
Though Gamescom runs from Aug. 21 to 25, Microsoft is actually holding a pre-event press conference the day before. Microsoft executive Phil Spencer will also deliver the opening keynote speech that signals the opening of Gamescom. Microsoft will most likely be showing off new Xbox One titles, as well as new footage from already announced titles such as Dead Rising 3 and Ryse. In addition, the company has announced that a new exclusive will be announced at the event.
Sony, however, may have stolen their rival's thunder by announcing on their website that they too will have a preshow press conference focused on the PlayStation 4, and that they will be discussing the next-gen console's release plans. This is huge news for gamers, as the PlayStation 4 has yet to get a release date, besides a promise that the console will be out in 2013. Sony will also discuss the host of first party titles they are developing for the PlayStation 4, as well as news on the PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation Vita.
Of course, Gamescom is not just about the two big next-gen consoles; other publishers will be at the event as well. Nintendo will have a strong showing at the event, previewing their new Wii U and 3DS games. Square Enix will have several Final Fantasy titles at the event, as well as other titles in their roster. However, Final Fantasy 15 and Kingdom Hearts 3 have not been confirmed for Gamescom, leaving the two biggest upcoming games from the company out of the event. Blizzard will be at the event, giving details about Diablo 3 as well as showing off another new title. The Elder Scrolls Online will be playable at Gamescom, giving MMO fans a chance to test out the game before release. Other big games that will be at the event include Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Destiny, Titanfall and The Legend of Zelda, a Link Between Worlds.
Gamescom will hold many surprises and big announcements, so look out for any and all updates from the event right here.