adminThe Gamescom theft apology follows reports that hardware belonging to several independent developers was stolen during this year’s event. Organisers acknowledged that their first response did not convey enough understanding of the impact on the affected exhibitors, and said they are reviewing security arrangements for indie participants.
Gamescom theft apology acknowledges impact on developers
In a statement shared on social media, Gamescom organisers said the criticism of their initial communication was justified. They recognised that theft can mean more than replacing equipment: it can disrupt an event for developers and put months or years of work at risk, particularly for small studios.
The organisers said they should have recognised those consequences from the beginning. For exhibitors dealing with a theft, reporting the incident promptly to both event organisers and the police can help ensure that it is formally recorded. Gamescom asked affected exhibitors to contact its team at sales@gamescom.de.
Initial response drew criticism
Gamescom’s first statement noted that large events can attract people seeking to exploit the situation and said its security measures were intended to reduce risks. It also referred exhibitors to general security rules, said additional stand security could be booked separately, and advised insuring equipment against theft.
That response focused on security arrangements and exhibitor precautions without directly addressing the loss experienced by developers. The organisers later accepted that the wording had not shown those affected the empathy they deserved.
Reported thefts affected several exhibitors
Developers reported incidents in the event’s business and indie areas. Mimic developer Ryan Laley said all of his laptops had been stolen, describing the loss as a significant financial and personal setback. CD Projekt Red, Alienware and other industry companies offered to provide replacement equipment. Gamescom thanked them, while noting that outside assistance did not remove the organisers’ responsibility to work with exhibitors and partners on security.
Iam8bit also reported that two laptops used for game demonstrations were taken, despite security staff from Koelnmesse being present. The company said the incident was disappointing for its team and the developers at Nano Park Studios and Coin Crew Games, who had prepared for the show.
Tessera Studios, the developer of The Zibbo Show, reported that someone forced open its cabinet and took two laptops and a Steam Deck. The devices held the Gamescom demo as well as personal, company and other critical information. Exhibitors can reduce disruption by keeping backups of demo builds and limiting sensitive information stored on equipment taken to public events; these precautions do not replace effective venue security.
Gamescom plans a security review
The organisers said a post-event review will include a dedicated assessment of security for indie exhibitors. They also plan to hold a roundtable with participants in shared indie booths to develop practical measures together. The review is intended to support further improvements in coordination between the event, exhibitors and partners.
Gamescom has not provided further details in the statements described, including the number of reported incidents or whether compensation will be offered. The Gamescom theft apology addresses the shortcomings in its initial response, while the planned review will determine what additional security steps may follow.
