Central Europe

German games market grows by 22 per cent in the first half of 2021

Published

5 years ago

August 25, 2021

George Miller

Reading Time: 4 minutes

• German games market sees further increase in growth after 2020

• Half of Germans believe that the potential of games is not yet adequately exploited

• Free-to-play games enjoy high levels of acceptance among players

• Around seven million Germans watch gaming live streams, and a third of these do so at least several times a week

Last year’s strong growth of the German games market continued in the first half of 2021: in the first six months of this year, sales revenue in computer and video games and associated hardware grew by 22 per cent year-on-year to a level of 4.6 billion euros. This was announced today by game – the German Games Industry Association at the gamescom press conference. gamescom itself starts this Wednesday evening. This data is based on surveys carried out by the market research companies GfK and App Annie. The strongest drivers of growth include in-game and in-app purchases: the revenue from these services grew by 34 per cent to around 2 billion euros in the first half of the year. The high demand for games hardware such as games consoles, graphic cards, etc. generated revenue growth of 24 per cent to around 1.7 billion euros. Charges for online networks also considerably boosted revenues, rising by 18 per cent to 378 million euros in the first half of 2021.

‘The demand for games and corresponding hardware remains strong this year following the surge in 2020. In particular, the springtime shutdowns during the coronavirus pandemic saw many people in Germany reach for their smartphone, games console and PC in order to play games and have fun with other people,’ says game Managing Director Felix Falk. ‘As well as being first-rate entertainment, games also offer huge potential for dealing with the challenges of our age, such as the coronavirus pandemic, climate change or the digitalisation of our society. Unfortunately, this potential is still insufficiently exploited in Germany – a situation that more than half of Germans currently believe to be a problem. With German parliamentary elections on the horizon, this should be a clear signal to politicians to improve the framework conditions for the games industry and to further leverage the potential of games for our society and economy in future.’

Half of Germans believe that the potential of games is not yet being adequately exploited

This year’s gamescom is raising awareness of the huge potential of games under the guiding principle of ‘Games: The New Normal’. Computer and video games not only make millions of people happy every day, they have long been used in companies, schools, retirement homes and museums. Whether environmental protection, health or for using the coronavirus app: 50 per cent of Germans believe that the huge potential of games is not yet being adequately exploited in Germany. More than half of Germans agree with the statement that games can help inculcate environmentally aware behaviour by simulating the consequences of environmentally damaging actions. Almost as many people agree with the statement that gamification can motivate people to move more in their everyday lives and eat more healthily, and can contribute to a healthy lifestyle as a result. Nearly four out of ten Germans see the deployment of gamification as an opportunity to increase the acceptance and use of digital solutions such as the coronavirus app.

Free-to-play games enjoy high levels of acceptance

Never before have so many games been available to play for so little money. gamescom highlights this development with the trend ‘more games for less money’. Free-to-play games are one of the main reasons for this trend, in addition to the burgeoning array of increasingly extensive subscription services that give users access to the latest blockbuster and indie games for just a few euros per month. Because they are free of charge while incorporating optional additional purchases, free-to-play games enjoy high levels of acceptance among video game players. Around three quarters of all players in Germany have played free-to-play games without spending any money on them. Just under six out of ten players believe such games to be better than having to pay a fixed amount of money in advance. Around half of players consider in-game purchases – which enable the free-to-play games to finance themselves – to be fair because they are optional and are a means of funding the development of the games.

Live-streaming as a ‘campfire for the digital age’

This year’s ‘live-streaming’ trend at gamescom refers to a phenomenon of games culture that has experienced uncommonly high growth over recent years. Live broadcasts on platforms such as Twitch, YouTube or Facebook Gaming that actively involve the community have long been regarded as the campfire of the digital age. Over seven million people in Germany use corresponding platforms for gaming live streams, and a third of them do so at least several times a week. Additionally, many other subject areas such as cooking, talk formats or sports events – and not just gaming – are hugely popular on the platforms. The special feature of the live streams on these platforms is the direct communication between creator and community, and it is this interaction that is the entertaining factor. gamescom also utilises live-streaming to delight millions of fans around the world with shows such as gamescom: Opening Night Live or gamescom: Awesome Indies, with talk formats such as the gamescom studio and also live streams from a host of partners.

About the data

Please note: GfK has adjusted its definition of hardware designed for games, with the result that the market size comes out higher – also for the figures already reported last year for the first half of 2020.

The market data is based on statistics compiled by the GfK Consumer Panel and App Annie. The methods used by GfK to collect data on Germany’s video games market are unique in terms of both their quality and their global use. They include an ongoing survey of 25,000 consumers who are representative of the German population as a whole regarding their video game purchasing and usage habits, as well as a retail panel. The data collection methods provide a unique insight into the German market for computer and video games.

The survey data used is based on an online survey by YouGov Deutschland GmbH in which 2,052 persons participated between 3 and 5 August 2021. The results were weighted and are representative of the German population aged 16 and older.

game – the German Games Industry Association

We are the association of the German games industry. Our members include developers, publishers and many other games industry actors such as esports event organisers, educational establishments and service providers. As a joint organiser of gamescom, we are responsible for the world’s biggest event for computer and video games. We are an expert partner for media and for political and social institutions, and answer questions relating to market development, games culture and media literacy. Our mission is to make Germany the best games location.

Central Europe

Gaming in Germany Conference returns to Berlin November 10, 2026

Published

1 week ago

March 30, 2026

Wladimir P.

gaming-in-germany-conference-returns-to-berlin-november-10,-2026

The Gaming in Germany Conference is set to return to Berlin on November 10, 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across the country’s regulated online gambling sector. The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Ku’damm and is expected to once again attract a wide range of industry professionals.

Organised by Gaming in Europe, the annual conference has established itself as a central meeting point for operators, regulators, legal experts, and service providers involved in Germany’s evolving iGaming landscape.

Key Topics on the Agenda

The 2026 edition will focus on some of the most pressing issues facing the German market. A major highlight will be discussions around the evaluation of the GlüStV 2021 (State Gambling Treaty) and its impact on the regulated online gambling environment.

In addition, the conference will cover a broad range of topics, including:

Regulatory developments and compliance
Market growth and competitive dynamics
Player protection and responsible gambling
Marketing strategies in a regulated environment
The role of eSports within the sector

These sessions are designed to provide actionable insights while fostering dialogue between industry participants and regulatory authorities.

Confirmed Speakers

Although the event is still several months away, a strong lineup of speakers has already been confirmed. These include:

Dr. Jörg Hofmann, Senior Partner at Melchers Law
A senior representative from the GGL (German Gambling Authority)
Dr. Dirk Quermann, President of DOCV
Mathias Dahms, President of DSWV
VP Games at ZEAL Network
Prof. Dr. Christian Piska, University of Vienna
Dr. Nepomuk Nothelfer, University of Agder & Melchers Law
Josh Hodgson, COO at H2 Gambling Capital

This mix of legal, regulatory, and commercial expertise ensures a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities within Germany’s regulated market.

A Key Industry Meeting Point

Willem van Oort, founder of Gaming in Germany, highlighted the importance of the event:

“After last year’s highly successful edition, we are extremely pleased to return to Berlin in 2026. Our goal is to connect the industry with regulatory and social stakeholders. This year, we expect to gain valuable insights into the evaluation of the 2021 State Gambling Treaty and its impact on the market.”

He also emphasized that the conference remains one of the best opportunities to meet key decision-makers in Germany’s iGaming sector.

Registration and Participation

Industry professionals are encouraged to save the date and secure their place early. The event also offers opportunities for speakers and sponsors to get involved and share their expertise with a targeted audience.

With its strong agenda and high-level networking opportunities, the Gaming in Germany Conference 2026 is set to be a must-attend event for anyone active in the German regulated iGaming market.

The post Gaming in Germany Conference returns to Berlin November 10, 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Central Europe

Gaming Laboratories International Named Best Testing Laboratory in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026

Published

1 week ago

March 30, 2026

Wladimir P.

gaming-laboratories-international-named-best-testing-laboratory-in-the-gamingtech-cee-awards-2026

Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) has been named “Best Testing Laboratory in CEE” in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026. The awards were presented during the Hipther Prague Gaming & TECH Summit. GLI has won this award multiple times in a row.

“We are thrilled to be honored by the industry in this way. At GLI, we have been fully committed to the gaming industry across Central and Eastern Europe for decades, working with suppliers, regulators, and operators to provide the insights and technical expertise that help the industry move forward safely and securely. Being recognized for our efforts is humbling and gratifying,” said GLI Managing Director EMEIA James Boje.

According to organisers, the GamingTECH Awards celebrate the standout companies, teams and individuals shaping the future of gaming, compliance, payments and innovation across Central & Eastern Europe.

The post Gaming Laboratories International Named Best Testing Laboratory in the GamingTECH CEE Awards 2026 appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

Austria

Wazdan strengthens European foothold with Austrian market entry via win2day

Published

1 week ago

March 27, 2026

Wladimir P.

wazdan-strengthens-european-foothold-with-austrian-market-entry-via-win2day

Wazdan has continued its European growth strategy by entering the Austrian iGaming market through a new partnership with win2day, the country’s only licensed online casino operator. The move represents a significant milestone for the developer as it strengthens its footprint in regulated markets across the region.

The agreement will see a selection of Wazdan’s most recognisable titles made available to Austrian players, including 9 Coins, Hot Slot: 777 Cash Out, and Mighty Wild: Panther. These initial releases mark the beginning of a broader rollout strategy aimed at steadily expanding the studio’s presence on the platform.

Gradual Rollout Strategy

Following the initial launch, Wazdan plans to introduce one new title each month to the win2day portfolio. This phased approach allows the operator to continuously refresh its offering while ensuring each addition aligns with player preferences and market demand.

By focusing on quality over volume, the partnership is designed to enhance player engagement through carefully selected content that combines strong visual appeal with innovative gameplay mechanics.

Bringing Signature Features to Austria

In addition to its established titles, Wazdan will introduce Austrian players to its suite of proprietary features that have become central to its brand identity. These include Hold the Jackpot, Cash Infinity, Collect to Infinity, Sticky to Infinity, and Cash Out.

These mechanics are designed to increase player interaction and extend gameplay sessions by adding dynamic elements and customizable experiences. As operators increasingly seek differentiated content, such features play a key role in enhancing retention and overall player satisfaction.

Partnering with a Trusted Operator

win2day is operated by Austrian Lotteries, a long-established organization with more than four decades of experience in the market. As the sole licensed online casino operator in Austria, win2day holds a unique position, combining strict regulatory compliance with a strong reputation for responsible gaming.

The collaboration brings together Wazdan’s expertise in game development with win2day’s established market presence, creating a partnership focused on delivering high-quality and secure entertainment to players.

Andrzej Hyla, Chief Commercial Officer at Wazdan, said:

“Entering the Austrian market with win2day is a significant milestone for Wazdan and a rewarding step in our continued European expansion. Partnering with a trusted, long-established operator allows us to deliver the quality user experience we are known for to a new audience.”

Georg Wawer, Managing Director of win2day, added:

“As Austria’s only licensed online gaming operator, we are committed to offering a carefully curated portfolio of high-quality games. Partnering with Wazdan allows us to combine engaging gameplay with the highest levels of safety and responsibility.”

Strengthening Regulated Market Presence

As the European iGaming landscape continues to evolve, expansion into regulated jurisdictions remains a key priority for leading developers. Wazdan’s entry into Austria highlights its commitment to sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and compliance-driven market entry.

By aligning with a trusted operator and delivering proven content alongside innovative features, Wazdan is well-positioned to establish a strong presence in the Austrian market.

The post Wazdan strengthens European foothold with Austrian market entry via win2day appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.