Gamescom has issued a public apology after criticism over how it initially responded to reports that several indie exhibitors had equipment stolen from their booths. In a statement posted on X, the event organizers said they accept the criticism and recognize the seriousness of the developers’ losses.
“Over the past few days, we have received a great deal of criticism for the way we communicated about the theft of hardware belonging to several indie developers. That criticism is justified. Our first response did not strike the right tone, and it did not show the people affected the empathy they deserved. We are sorry,” the organizers wrote.
The statement acknowledged that a theft of this kind extends beyond a material loss. Organizers noted that it can ruin an entire event for those affected and can destroy work built over months or years, which for a small studio can represent nearly everything they have.
What Was Stolen at the Event
So far, three exhibitors have reported thefts. Mimic developer Ryan Laley lost a brand-new Alienware gaming laptop. The studio iam8bit reported two missing laptops, and Tessera Studios lost two laptops along with a Steam Deck.
iam8bit and Laley were located close together in Hall 4.1, near the west entrance gate, which made them easy targets. Tessera Studios, however, was positioned in Hall 10.2 on the second floor, at a considerable distance from the other two affected exhibitors.
The financial cost is significant, as these are likely high-end gaming laptops that carry prices well above entry-level models. Beyond the hardware value, the greater concern for the developers is the loss of intellectual property. Even if projects were backed up on external SSDs, the exposure of unfinished work remains a serious blow for any studio.
Security Overhaul and Developer Roundtable
Alongside the apology, the organizers detailed the steps they are taking. They said they have already contacted the affected parties to understand the consequences of the incident. The company is also carrying out its standard post-event review and exhibitor feedback evaluation, plus an additional security review focused on indie exhibitors.
As part of that review, organizers are inviting shared indie booth operators to a roundtable to develop concrete measures together. They also acknowledged the wider gaming community’s response, noting that people offered help within hours, unconditionally and without being asked.
Organizers said the community support does not relieve them of their responsibility to work with exhibitors and partners to create the best possible environment for everyone. To date, three exhibitors have publicly reported stolen laptops, consoles, and a Steam Deck.
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Image: tomshardware.com
