Gamescom Responds After Developers Report Stolen Equipment at Koelnmesse
The event team said all reported cases had been sent to police and noted that exhibitors can book separate security for their stands.
Gamescom has responded to reports that computers and other equipment were stolen from the Koelnmesse show floor, with solo developers among those affected. In its August 29 response, the event team said the cases were reported to Gamescom and the police, and that investigations were already underway.
The thefts became public on August 28, when solo developer Ryan Laley returned to his booth and found that the laptops he used to show his upcoming multiplayer horror game Mimic were gone. Laley said at least seven or eight laptops had been taken from the surrounding area, forcing him to cancel much of his Gamescom schedule.
iam8bit also lost two laptops from the business area. The machines were being used to demonstrate Petal Runner and Escape Academy 2, and contained unfinished builds that could have exposed development versions of both games. Tessera Studios reported a separate break-in in the Indie Area at Hall 10.2, where a forced-open cabinet left the studio without two laptops and a Steam Deck containing company and personal information.
Gamescom’s Security Rules for Exhibitors
Gamescom said uniformed guards provide general security throughout Koelnmesse. Exhibitors can book security for their individual stands separately, and the event’s participation terms and technical guidelines advise them to insure equipment against theft.
The team also said every reported case had been brought to Gamescom and the police. It expressed regret that indie developers were affected, described the incidents as individual cases, and said its security measures are designed to reduce the risk at an event of this size.
Gamescom said security is one of its highest priorities, but added that people will always try to take advantage of a large event. The explanation did not satisfy many attendees or exhibitors. The statement did not explain how multiple computers could be removed from halls that exhibitors understood to have security coverage and limited overnight access, while the focus on optional guards and insurance was criticized as shifting responsibility toward the victims.
Replies also criticized the organizer over exhibitor costs and noted that other developers had stepped in to help those affected. Indie Game Joe provided money to help replace Laley’s stolen hardware, while CD Projekt Red offered assistance. Laley declined suggestions for a crowdfunding campaign and instead asked people to wishlist and share Mimic. He planned to remain at Gamescom through the rest of the weekend despite losing his booth setup.
We are aware of stolen hardware and take these reports very seriously and understand the frustration of affected exhibitors.
Since many requests reached us, we would like to inform about general security regulations at the event:
Uniformed guards provide general security across…— gamescom (@gamescom) August 29, 2026
The security problems were not described as universal. Access checks appeared inconsistent around the venue, with people without clear identification or the proper credentials seen entering business-only areas. Guards reportedly gave different answers about who could enter, when access was allowed, and which doors they could use.
Some staff were helpful, including one officer who followed a young woman into a business area after she entered without showing her pass, then apologized when it became clear that she had one but it had not been noticed in time.
With Gamescom continuing through Sunday, August 30, what do you think of the organizers’ response to the theft reports? Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, Instagram, Steam, and Telegram.
