Paris Games Week 2026 begins

Paris Games Week 2026 opens this Thursday, marking the fifteenth edition of the event. Despite its long history, the French video game industry is currently facing significant challenges, with closures, layoffs, and declining sales reported in the sector.

Industry struggles after a major success

One year after the global success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the French video game industry is experiencing a downturn. Major studios such as Ubisoft, Don't Nod, Nacon, and Quantic Dream have had to lay off employees due to lower-than-expected sales and difficulty in securing funding.

Financial strain on studios

According to the annual barometer published by the Syndicat national du jeu vidéo (SNJV) in partnership with the CNC, nearly one studio out of two (48%) declared itself in deficit in 2025. This rate has increased sharply over the past year, highlighting the growing financial strain on the sector.

Paris Games Week highlights gaming again

This edition of Paris Games Week will feature more than 150 playable titles, with over thirty games presented starting Thursday and continuing until Sunday at the Pavillon France. The event will refocus on video games, offering more gaming stations to visitors, after an edition in 2025 that favored concerts and pop culture.

Major manufacturers showcase their games

Major manufacturers will be present in different forms. Nintendo will have a large stand featuring its current flagship titles and some third-party games. Sony will partner with Fnac-Darty and center its stand around Marvel’s Wolverine. Microsoft will highlight its collaboration with IKEA around the Xbox universe.

Anticipated games and notable absences

Among the most anticipated playable titles are the new installment of the military saga Call of Duty, Modern Warfare 4, the third and final part of the remake of Final Fantasy VII, and Rayman Legends Retold. However, Grand Theft Auto VI, expected on November 19, will not be present for the second consecutive year.

Event format and attendance goals

The fair, supported by new partners including the Fimalac Entertainment group and GL events, will be shortened by a day. Organizers hope to attract at least as many visitors as last year, which recorded 161,000 entries over four days.

Industry outlook and future hopes

Nicolas Vignolles warns of a cultural battle against social networks and streaming platforms, noting a decline in the number of gamers in France for the first time in ten years. However, an economist in the sector suggests the worst may be over for larger companies, with video games remaining the leading cultural industry in France.

Event details and ticket information

Paris Games Week runs from October 22 to 25, 2026, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Ticket prices range from 20 euros for reduced tickets to 80 euros for a family ticket. Free entry is available for those under 8 years and PMR/PSH accompaniers.