# Gamescom apologises for how it initially responded to indie developer hardware thefts

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/gamescom-apologises-for-how-it-initially-responded-to-indie-developer-hardware-thefts/
- Published: 2026-09-05T17:00:26+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-06T02:04:25+00:00
- Original publisher: Eurogamer
- Original article: https://www.eurogamer.net/gamescom-apologises-indie-developer-hardware-theft-response
- Topics: Software, Technology

## Key points

- Gamescom apologises for its tone-deaf initial response to indie hardware thefts
- Multiple exhibitors, including Ryan Laley and Iam8bit, had laptops stolen
- Organisers pledge a security review and roundtable for indie exhibitors

## Summary

Gamescom has issued a fresh apology for its handling of hardware thefts affecting several indie developers at the Cologne event, admitting its initial response "did not strike the right tone" and lacked empathy for those affected. The reversal follows widespread criticism after multiple exhibitors, including indie developer Ryan Laley, Iam8bit and Tessera Studios, reported laptops and equipment stolen from their booths, with Laley saying the theft effectively ended his show early.

In a statement posted on 4th September, organisers acknowledged the losses could "ruin an entire Gamescom" and destroy months or years of work for small studios, and said they had begun speaking directly with affected exhibitors. Gamescom committed to a dedicated security review for indie exhibitors, a roundtable with shared-booth organisers, and urged anyone affected to report incidents to both the organisers and police. Companies including CD Projekt Red and Indie Game Joe have already offered support to those impacted.

## Coverage

- [Eurogamer: Gamescom apologises for how it initially responded to indie developer hardware thefts](https://www.eurogamer.net/gamescom-apologises-indie-developer-hardware-theft-response)
- [Polygon: 'We Are Sorry,' Gamescom Apologizes For Lackluster Response To Indie Booth Thefts](https://www.polygon.com/gamescom-apology-statement-hardware-indie-thefts/)

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.