'We Are Sorry,' Gamescom Apologizes For Lackluster Response To Indie Booth Thefts
After a disastrous first response, Gamescom is doing some damage control and trying to make amends with the gaming community.
Gamescom has expressed regret over its initial handling of reports regarding hardware thefts at its recent event. The organizers admitted their communication did not convey the necessary empathy to those impacted. They received substantial criticism for the manner in which they communicated about the theft of hardware belonging to several indie developers.
The organizers acknowledged that such thefts extend beyond mere material loss, potentially ruining an entire Gamescom for the affected individuals and destroying years of hard work for small studios. Initially, Gamescom only noted that stolen hardware was present, highlighting that at a large event, some individuals may attempt to exploit the situation.
The organizers emphasized their general security regulations and advised individual stand security options for exhibitors. They are now conducting a thorough post-event review, focusing on the security measures for indie exhibitors and holding a roundtable to develop concrete measures together. While GamesIndustry.biz reached out to Gamescom's organizers regarding the number of reported incidents, potential compensation, and overall security implementation, they only reiterated their previous statements.
Several developers reported thefts within Gamescom's business and indie areas, with one developer, Ryan Laley, describing the incident as a "huge blow financially and mentally." Other industry giants like CD Projekt Red, Alienware, and others offered to send replacement equipment to affected developers. Despite these offers, the organizers emphasized their own responsibility to work with exhibitors and partners to create the best possible environment for all attendees.
They committed to jointly reviewing and improving security measures. Notably, Iam8bit experienced theft of two laptops used for game demos, even with Koelnmesse security present. Tessera Studios, developers of The Zibbo Show, had their cabinet forced open, leading to the theft of two laptops and a Steam Deck, containing critical personal and company information.
Gamescom urged affected exhibitors to report theft to both the organizers and the police, and to contact them at sales@gamescom.de.
Written by urgent.news from GamesIndustry's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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