Gamescom organizers have apologized for their initial handling of reports that hardware was stolen from several exhibitors at this year’s gaming convention, acknowledging that their first public response failed to show appropriate empathy toward the independent developers and companies affected.
The organizers said the criticism directed at their earlier statement was justified and confirmed that security arrangements, particularly those covering indie exhibitors, will now undergo a post-event review.
Gamescom Says Initial Theft Response ‘Did Not Strike the Right Tone’
Gamescom acknowledged that its original communication about the incidents did not adequately recognize the financial and professional impact on developers who lost equipment.
“We have received a great deal of criticism for the way we communicated about the theft of hardware belonging to several indie developers,” the organizers wrote on social media. “That criticism is justified.”
The statement continued: “A theft like this is far more than a material loss. It can ruin an entire Gamescom for the people it happens to, and it can destroy work that took months or years to build – work that, for a small studio, can be almost everything. To everyone affected: we understand what this has cost you, and we should have said so from the very first moment.”
The apology followed Gamescom’s initial statement acknowledging stolen hardware at the event. At the time, organizers said that “at an event of this size, there will always be individuals attempting to take advantage of the situation. Our security measures are designed to minimise such risks as effectively as possible.”
That earlier response also pointed exhibitors toward Gamescom’s general security regulations, noting that individual stand security could be booked separately and recommending insurance against equipment theft.
Security Review Planned for Indie Exhibitors
Following the backlash, Gamescom said it is conducting a broader post-event assessment that will include a “dedicated review of security for indie exhibitors.”
Organizers also plan to hold a roundtable involving shared indie booths, with the aim of developing concrete security measures alongside exhibitors.
GamesIndustry.biz sought further information from Gamescom regarding the number of reported thefts, possible compensation for affected exhibitors and how security was implemented during the event. Organizers referred the publication back to their existing statements.
Developers Report Laptops and Gaming Hardware Stolen
Several exhibitors reported equipment thefts from Gamescom’s business and indie areas.
Ryan Laley, developer of Mimic, said all of his laptops were stolen, describing the incident as a “huge blow financially and mentally.”
CD Projekt Red, Alienware and other members of the gaming industry subsequently offered replacement equipment to Laley. Gamescom thanked the companies for stepping forward but said that outside assistance did not eliminate the organizers’ own responsibilities.
“What it does not do is relieve us, as the organisers, of our own responsibility to work together with our exhibitors and partners to create the best possible environment for everyone,” Gamescom said. “We are therefore committed to jointly reviewing and further improving security.”
Iam8bit and Tessera Studios Among Exhibitors Affected
Iam8bit also reported losing equipment during the event. The company said two laptops being used for game demonstrations were stolen “despite the presence of Koelnmesse security.”
“This is hugely disappointing for us and our development teams at Nano Park Studios and Coin Crew Games, who worked tirelessly to prepare for this show,” the company said.
Tessera Studios, the developer behind The Zibbo Show, reported that a cabinet at its booth had been forced open. Two laptops and a Steam Deck were stolen.
“The devices contained not only our Gamescom demo, but also personal, company, and critical information,” the studio said.
The incidents highlight the potentially significant consequences of hardware theft for smaller game developers. Beyond the cost of replacing laptops and handheld gaming systems, stolen devices can contain development builds, business records and other information essential to studios preparing games for public demonstrations.
For Canadian independent developers attending major international gaming events, the incidents also underscore the practical risks associated with transporting valuable development equipment and unreleased software to large trade shows.
Gamescom Commits to Improving Event Security
Gamescom has encouraged exhibitors affected by the thefts to report incidents directly to both event organizers and police. Exhibitors can also contact the Gamescom sales team regarding reported cases.
The organizers have now committed to working with developers, exhibitors and partners to review existing security procedures and determine where improvements can be made.
The apology marks a significant change in tone from Gamescom’s initial response, with organizers now acknowledging both the personal impact of the thefts and their responsibility to improve conditions. Attention will now turn to the post-event review and whether it results in stronger protections for indie developers at future Gamescom events.
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