Indie Developer Shares Heartfelt Update Following Laptop Theft at Gamescom

Ryan Laley, the indie developer behind October’sMimic, is making waves with his visually striking asymmetric multiplayer survival horror game. While attending Gamescom in Germany to showcase his creation, he shared on X that he and several other developers fell victim to a laptop theft from the convention’s business suite. In an emotional post, he expressed the profound impact of this loss, stating, “Gamescom is over for me.” A few hours later, Laley conveyed that despite feeling devastated, he has been overwhelmed by the support he’s received.

Gamescom stands as the largest gaming event globally, merging the industry-focused elements of the former E3 with the public engagement of PAX, attracting over 350,000 attendees each year in Cologne, Germany. The event kicks off with Opening Night Live, setting the stage for a bustling show floor. For developers, particularly indie creators, it’s a prime opportunity to showcase their games to the public, publishers, and fellow developers. Laley was among those showcasing his work in the “Business” area, which is supposed to have round-the-clock security, making it a supposedly safe space for equipment. However, on the morning of August 28, multiple developers discovered that their gear had been stolen overnight.

“All our laptops have been stolen,” Laley shared on X, struggling to hold back tears. “Not just mine, others as well.”

My#gamescomcut short. Our equipment was stolen last night from the booth.

Police reports have been filed.

At a loss for words to describe the feeling. Just defeated. Gonna do my best with what’s left of the week.

But a huge blow financially and mentallypic.twitter.com/dKpp3Of6df

— Mimic | Ryan Laley (@RyanLaley)August 28, 2026

“As an indie, solo dev,” Laley continued, “this stuff is expensive and tough to manage alone. To have this happen is beyond frustrating; it’s heartbreaking.” He added, “The whole area has been raided.”

The incident has been reported to Gamescom management and the police, though Laley is skeptical about recovering any stolen items. When questioned about security measures, he noted, “Meant to be 24-7 security and limited access at night. So no idea.”

Meant to be 24-7 security and limited access at night. So no idea. Next time will have to take security into my own hands and extra secure things up or take them back to the hotel each night (which would be a massive pain)

— Mimic | Ryan Laley (@RyanLaley)August 28, 2026

We’ve reached out to Gamescom for details on the theft, how it occurred, and whether the event has insurance to cover the losses for attendees. We’ll provide updates if we receive any information. Meanwhile, Laley has expressed gratitude for the “outpouring of love and support from everyone.”

In a follow-up conversation, Laley mentioned that at least seven or eight laptops were taken and reiterated his disbelief that such a theft could happen in a supposedly secure area. “Being in the business hall, one would expect it to be more secure, and we were told it’s 24-7 security and no equipment can be removed without authorization.”

Numerous individuals have reached out to Laley, including developers from some of his favorite games, and even a message from a well-known company’s Cyberpunk 2077 account. Reflecting on the experience, he described it as “a rollercoaster of emotions.” He shared that he felt sick that morning, spoke with his wife, shed some tears, and then rallied himself. He even posted a video on his YouTube channel, where he teaches about Unreal Engine, and soon after, support began pouring in.

We are very sorry this happened to you. We hope you know you’re not on your own with this. And while it won’t help right this second, we’ll check the Arasaka hardware archives and see if we can send a few things your way. No choom should have to start from zero. ????????

— Cyberpunk 2077 (@CyberpunkGame)August 28, 2026

Laley admitted he’s unsure how to navigate the situation but expressed immense appreciation for the support he’s received from the community, both in person and online.

When someone suggested he set up a Go Fund Me, he responded, “Thanks man, but it’s okay, just wishlist my game and share the page would be enough.”