Koelnmesse has announced increased security for those attending this year’s Gamescom, Europe’s biggest video game convention. The increased security will mean cosplay restrictions and mandatory bag checks.

The increased security measures are due to the recent terrorist attacks in Europe. The increased security measures which were announced via press release urges visitors not to bring bags and rucksacks, along with stricter cosplay regulations.

Koelnmesse, the convention’s organiser, has stated that from 7am on the days the convention operates, there were be strict control measures, including bag checks. These control measures will be carried out at the entrances before admission to the convention. Due to the announcement of bag checks, the organisers have asked visitors, “to leave bags and rucksacks as well as item of all kinds that they don’t urgently need for their visit to Gamescom at home in order to keep the waiting times down to a minimum.”

Apart from bag checks, there will be strict costume regulations. The new regulations state that while cosplayers are still welcome at Gamescom, imitation weapons or weapon-like items are banned. As the press release simply states, “all imitation weapons or weapon-like elements on the costumes are not permitted at Gamescom 2016.” While some might not like this announcement, it does appear to be a necessary compromise, and honestly if you need an imitation weapon to help make your cosplay work you might be doing something wrong.

Now, while visitors are banned from bringing imitation weapons and weapon-like items, exhibitors who are performing walking acts and campaign are allowed imitation weapons and weapon-like items. However, while exhibitors are allowed to bring imitation weapons they must first clear it with the organisers. The press release, it states, “Imitation weapons or weapon-like items [for exhibitors] will be labelled in advance and are not allowed to leave the fairgrounds from the moment of their labelling onwards, they have to be stored at the stands of the exhibitors throughout the entire duration of the fair. The walking act is not allowed to wear the costume until it has been labelled, i.e. it has to be put on in the exhibition halls.”

While some may not like the idea of the increased security as it means long lines and possible cosplay revisions, the new security measures are necessary as it is better to be safe than sorry.

For those unaware, SG Gaming Info will be attending Gamescom 2016 as a member of the press.

Source: Gamescom