Gamescom has publicly acknowledged that its first response to the series of thefts reported at this year’s exhibition fell short of the appropriate tone and failed to convey the empathy that the victims deserved. In a statement posted on its social media channels, the event’s organizers admitted that the criticism they have received regarding their handling of the incident is "justified" and expressed a sincere desire to make amends. The statement begins by recognizing the profound effect that the loss of equipment can have on independent developers.
"A theft of this nature is far more than a simple material loss," the organizers wrote. "It can ruin an entire Gamescom experience for those affected and can destroy work that has taken months or even years to create – for a small studio, that work can be virtually everything.
To everyone impacted: we understand what this has cost you, and we should have said so from the very first moment." Initially, Gamescom had issued a more generic notice that it was aware of stolen hardware at the show, noting 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 communication also referenced the event’s "general security regulations" and advised exhibitors that "individual stand security can be booked separately, and exhibitors are advised to insure equipment against theft." In light of the backlash, the organizers announced 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 Gamescom, is to identify gaps in the current security framework and to implement stronger safeguards for future editions of the show. GamesIndustry.biz reached out to Gamescom for details on the number of reported incidents, possible compensation for the victims, and the overall security plan that was in place.
The publication was directed back to the statements already released by the event, which emphasized that security is a shared responsibility between the organizers and the exhibitors. Several developers have come forward to describe the personal and professional toll of the thefts. Ryan Laley, the founder of the indie studio Mimic, said that all of his laptops were taken, calling the incident "a huge blow financially and mentally." The loss not only stripped him of expensive hardware but also of the data, prototypes, and demo builds stored on those machines. In response, major industry players such as CD Projekt Red and Alienware offered to provide replacement equipment for Laley, a gesture that Gamescom thanked them for publicly.
The organizers underscored that external assistance does not absolve them of responsibility. "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," they wrote. "We are therefore committed to jointly reviewing and further improving security." Another affected party, Iam8bit, reported that two laptops used for game demonstrations were stolen despite the presence of Koelnmesse security staff.
The company expressed deep disappointment, noting that the loss impacted both the developers at Nano Park Studios and Coin Crew Games, who had invested significant time and resources into preparing their demo rigs for the show. Tessera Studios, the team behind The Zibbo Show, also suffered a breach when their exhibition cabinet was forced open, resulting in the theft of two laptops and a Steam Deck.
The studio highlighted that the stolen devices contained not only the demo build slated for Gamescom but also a wealth of personal, corporate, and sensitive information. Gamescom has urged any exhibitor who experienced a theft to file a report both with the event organizers and with local police authorities.
A dedicated contact address—sales@gamescom.de—has been provided for victims to reach out for assistance, guidance, and potential next steps. Looking ahead, Gamescom’s leadership has pledged to overhaul its security approach.
The upcoming round‑table with indie exhibitors will focus on practical solutions such as increased on‑site security personnel, mandatory insurance policies for high‑value equipment, and the introduction of tamper‑evident display cases. Additionally, the organizers are exploring the use of real‑time asset tracking technology, which could alert staff instantly when a piece of equipment is moved without authorization. The broader industry reaction has been one of both concern and solidarity. While some critics argue that the thefts reveal systemic vulnerabilities in large trade shows, many companies have stepped forward to support the affected developers, offering replacements, technical assistance, and public statements of support.
This collective response underscores the importance of community resilience in the face of unexpected setbacks. In summary, Gamescom’s apology marks a turning point in how the event will handle security moving forward.
By acknowledging the emotional and financial damage caused by the thefts, committing to a thorough review, and engaging directly with indie exhibitors to co‑create stronger safeguards, the organizers aim to restore confidence among participants and ensure that future editions of the show provide a safe, supportive environment for all creators.