Gamescom has publicly expressed regret for the way it initially handled reports of equipment thefts at this year’s convention, admitting that its first response "did not strike the right tone" and failed to "show the people affected the empathy they deserve." In a series of posts on its official social‑media channels, the organizers acknowledged that the criticism they received was justified and pledged to take concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The statement began by noting the volume of backlash the event faced after several indie developers reported that laptops, consoles, and other valuable hardware had been stolen from their booths. "We have received a great deal of criticism for the way we communicated about the theft of hardware belonging to several indie developers," Gamescom wrote. "That criticism is justified." The organizers then elaborated on why the thefts mattered far beyond the monetary loss of a few devices.
"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." Earlier in the week, Gamescom had issued a brief notice that it was aware of stolen hardware at the show, emphasizing 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." The earlier message also referenced the event’s "general security regulations" and reminded exhibitors that "individual stand security can be booked separately, and exhibitors are advised to insure equipment against theft." In light of the backlash, Gamescom announced that it is launching a comprehensive post‑event review.
This review will include a "dedicated review of security for indie exhibitors" and a round‑table discussion with representatives of shared indie booths to "develop concrete measures together." The goal, according to the organizers, is to create a more robust protection framework that goes beyond generic guidelines and addresses the specific vulnerabilities of smaller studios that often cannot afford extensive private security. GamesIndustry.biz reached out to Gamescom for details on the number of incidents reported, the possibility of compensation for victims, and the overall effectiveness of the security plan that was in place. The publication was directed back to the public statements already released, which outlined the event’s existing policies but did not provide a precise incident count.
Several developers shared their experiences publicly. Ryan Laley, the founder of the indie studio Mimic, reported that all of his laptops were taken from his booth.
He described the loss as "a huge blow financially and mentally," noting that the stolen machines contained not only prototypes and demo builds but also source code and personal data accumulated over years of development. In response, major industry players such as CD Projekt Red and Alienware offered to send replacement equipment to Laley, a gesture for which Gamescom thanked the donors. Gamescom emphasized that external assistance does not absolve the organizers of their 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," the statement continued. "We are therefore committed to jointly reviewing and further improving security." The indie collective Iam8bit also reported that two laptops used for game demos were stolen, despite the presence of Koelnmesse security personnel on site. The collective said the loss was "hugely disappointing for us and our development teams at Nano Park Studios and Coin Crew Games, who worked tirelessly to prepare for this show." Tessera Studios, the creators of The Zibbo Show, experienced a forced‑open cabinet that resulted in the theft of two laptops and a Steam Deck.
"The devices contained not only our Gamescom demo, but also personal, company, and critical information," the studio explained, underscoring how the breach threatened both their showcase material and internal business data. In an effort to streamline reporting and aid investigations, Gamescom urged any exhibitor who suffered a theft to file a report both with the event’s organizing team and with local police authorities. They provided a dedicated email address—sales@gamescom.de—for affected parties to contact the organizers directly.
Looking forward, Gamescom has outlined several specific actions it intends to implement: 1. **Enhanced Physical Security**: Deploy additional on‑site security staff during peak exhibition hours and increase patrols around high‑traffic indie zones.
2. **Mandatory Security Briefings**: Require all exhibitors, especially indie developers, to attend a brief security orientation that covers best practices for safeguarding equipment. 3.
**Improved Booth Infrastructure**: Offer reinforced lockable cabinets and secure mounting options as part of the standard booth package, reducing reliance on exhibitors to source their own solutions. 4. **Insurance Partnerships**: Facilitate group insurance options that make it easier and more affordable for smaller studios to protect their hardware against theft or damage.
5. **Real‑Time Incident Reporting**: Implement a mobile app or hotline that allows exhibitors to quickly report suspicious activity, enabling faster response from security teams. 6.
**Post‑Event Compensation Framework**: Establish a clear policy for evaluating compensation claims, including potential reimbursements for verified losses. By expanding its security protocols and fostering closer collaboration with exhibitors, Gamescom hopes to restore confidence among the indie community and ensure that future editions of the show remain a safe and productive environment for creators of all sizes. The organization’s apology, while late, signals a willingness to listen, learn, and adapt—a necessary step for an event that serves as a critical showcase for the global gaming industry.