55 Years of Gaming Passion | Tom Werneck | ToyTalk 2026 #33

In this inspiring ToyTalk interview, we sit down with Tom Werneck, a legendary figure in the games industry who has attended Spielwarenmesse for 55 consecutive years (minus two pandemic cancellations). At 86 years old, Tom Werneck shares his insights on gaming culture, intergenerational play, and how the toy and games industry has evolved into a world-class event. Tom Werneck is one of the two founders of "Game of the Year," established the Bavarian Games Archive, and founded the International Game Inventors Convention – now proudly hosted by Spielwarenmesse. His passion for games and playthings has shaped the industry for decades. ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 0:55 Founding "Game of the Year" and the Bavarian Games Archive 2:15 55 years at Spielwarenmesse and industry evolution 3:45 Intergenerational play and games as a medium for connection 5:15 Closing remarks and Spielwarenmesse's transformation 📅 About Spielwarenmesse: Spielwarenmesse is the world’s leading international toy fair in Nuremberg, Germany – the global meeting point for manufacturers, retailers, and innovators in the toy industry. 👉 Subscribe for more ToyTalk interviews with industry leaders and innovators!