German Game Developers Predict a More Promising 2026

A recent survey conducted by Game, the German video games trade association, reveals that nearly one-third of the country's game development companies are anticipating a more successful year in 2026 compared to 2025. The research indicates that 29% of respondents are expecting a positive trend in the industry over the next 12 months, which is significantly higher than the 17% who shared this sentiment at the beginning of 2025. Meanwhile, 41% of German game firms remain neutral about their prospects for the upcoming year, while 31% are pessimistic. In terms of their own business performance, 53% of companies are optimistic about 2026, marking a slight increase from the previous year. Additionally, 34% are neutral, and 12% expect a decline. The survey also inquired about hiring plans for 2026, with 32% of companies expressing a positive outlook, similar to the previous year but down from 41% in 2024. According to Felix Falk, the Managing Director of Game, 'confidence is returning to Germany's games industry, driven by positive signals such as the successful Gamescom 2025 and important policy initiatives like increased federal funding and tax incentives.' In 2024, the German games market experienced a 6% decline, generating €9.4 billion in revenue, with premium game sales dropping by 17%. Furthermore, the number of companies in the sector decreased by 4% in 2024, accompanied by a 2% reduction in the workforce.