Defenceman Davie Phillips underlined that Great Britain were “not just here to make up the numbers” as they played their first game in the top flight of the World Championship since 1994.
GB were beaten 3-1 but held the world’s eighth seeds at 1-1 in the third period, before two quick goals ensured Germany’s victory.
Phillips said: “I thought we gave it a great go tonight but came up a little short.
“We matched the eighth best team in the world for much of the game, but just let them get away at the end.
“We actually all feel disappointed which shows how far we have come in recent years.
“If a few chances had gone our way – and we had some great chances today – who knows what might have happened.”
GB return to action on Sunday when they face Canada at 8:15pm (7:15pm UK).
“It’s going to be a big challenge that’s for sure,” added Phillips.
“Of course, it’s one of the more high-profile games of the tournament for us, but we have such a great spirit so we will give it our best shot.”