Several developers and publishers have reported equipment being stolen from their booths at Gamescom 2026 in Cologne, Germany, with the incidents affecting laptops, a Steam Deck and other hardware. Gamescom organisers have acknowledged the reports and said the cases have been reported to police, with investigations underway.
Mimic developer Ryan Laley said that his team’s equipment had been stolen from its booth during the night. Laley said police reports had been filed and described the incident as a major financial and emotional blow that had cut his Gamescom visit short.
iam8bit also reported that two laptops were stolen overnight from its station in the business area of Hall 5.2, despite the presence of Koelnmesse security. The company said the laptops were being used to demonstrate Petal Runner and Escape Academy 2 to media and content creators.
The theft has also raised concerns over unfinished game builds potentially being exposed. iam8bit said the incident had disrupted its appointment schedule and could put unfinished versions of the games at risk of being leaked. The company asked anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Tesserra Studios, meanwhile, said its booth in the Indie Area had been broken into on Wednesday. The studio reported that two laptops and a Steam Deck were stolen, with the devices containing its Gamescom demo as well as personal, company and other critical information.
Gamescom Responds To Theft Reports
Gamescom has confirmed that it is aware of reports involving stolen hardware and said it takes the incidents seriously. The organisers also expressed sympathy towards affected exhibitors and confirmed that the reported cases have been communicated to both Gamescom and the police.
In a broader statement addressing the reports, Gamescom said uniformed guards provide general security throughout the venue, while exhibitors can separately book security for individual stands. Exhibitors are also advised to insure equipment against theft, with the organisers saying these provisions are included in the event’s participation terms and technical guidelines.
Gamescom said the incidents should be considered individual cases and acknowledged the particular impact on independent developers. The organisers added that security is a high priority, while noting that an event of this scale can attract individuals attempting to take advantage of the situation.
Gamescom 2026 is taking place from August 26 to 30 at Koelnmesse in Cologne. The event has a completely sold-out exhibition floor and has brought together developers, publishers, trade visitors and fans during the week-long showcase.
