Host Geoff Keighley revealed that Gamescom Opening Night Live features not only games for which publishers pay for their display. Some projects get into the broadcast for free – purely by editorial choice.
According to the organizer, the main condition is that the game must surprise in some way. This could be a new trailer, an important announcement, or another major event capable of impressing viewers. This applies to both large projects and games from small teams.
At the same time, some publishers do pay for placement. According to past years' data, a 60-second trailer at Gamescom Opening Night Live could cost around $120,000. For The Game Awards, the stakes are even higher – several minutes of presentation can cost $1 million.
Keighley noted that games released a few weeks after the show are more often perceived as regular advertising. Announcements and unexpected materials have more editorial value.
Final Fantasy VII Revelation, Gears of War: E-Day, and a new DLC for The Witcher 3 have already been announced for Opening Night Live 2026.