The German games industry is showing signs of cautious optimism for the coming year, according to a survey of 202 companies, including developers, publishers, and other sector participants. The survey suggests that sentiment across the industry is improving after a period of uncertainty.
About 29% of respondents now expect positive changes for the German games industry overall in 2026, up from 17% in last year’s survey. Meanwhile, 31% anticipate a negative outlook, a decline from 45% previously. The remainder of respondents view the industry’s prospects as neutral, reflecting a more balanced and measured perspective.
Business Confidence Remains Strong
Industry confidence is particularly notable at the company level. More than half of the companies surveyed, 53%, expect their own operations to perform better in 2026. Only 12% anticipate a decline in business, compared with 15% last year. This indicates that many companies see room for growth despite broader industry challenges.
Employment Trends Show Potential Growth
Employment expectations for 2026 also reflect a cautiously positive trend. Approximately 32% of companies plan to hire new staff in the coming year, signaling potential expansion and investment in talent. At the same time, 15% of respondents anticipate layoffs, suggesting that companies are still carefully managing workforce changes amid ongoing market fluctuations.
Emerging Focus on Web3 and Innovation
Some analysts suggest that improving sentiment in the German games industry may be linked to increased experimentation with new technologies, including web3 applications in gaming. Companies are exploring new business models, digital assets, and interactive experiences, which could offer alternative revenue streams and attract new audiences.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Overall, the survey indicates a cautiously optimistic outlook for Germany’s games industry in 2026. While challenges remain, particularly in a competitive global market, companies appear more confident in their ability to grow, hire talent, and explore innovative technologies.
Source: Game
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many companies were surveyed for the 2026 outlook?
The survey included 202 companies, covering developers, publishers, and other participants in the German games industry.
What percentage of companies expect growth in 2026?
Around 29% of companies anticipate positive changes for the German games industry overall, while 53% expect their own business to perform better.
Are companies planning to hire in 2026?
Yes, approximately 32% of surveyed companies plan to hire new employees in 2026.
Is there a risk of layoffs in the German games industry?
About 15% of respondents expect layoffs in 2026, indicating that some companies are still cautious about workforce expansion.
How is web3 influencing the German games industry?
Companies are exploring web3 technologies as part of innovative business models, which may include digital assets and interactive gaming experiences.
How does the 2026 outlook compare to last year?
Sentiment has improved, with fewer companies expecting a negative outlook and more companies expressing confidence in business growth compared to 2025.
