diff --git a/src/g_game.c b/src/g_game.c
index d3c55e0cc..bcae69fda 100644
--- a/src/g_game.c
+++ b/src/g_game.c
@@ -3588,7 +3588,8 @@ void G_InitNew(UINT8 pultmode, const char *mapname, boolean resetplayer, boolean
 		unlocktriggers = 0;
 
 		// clear itemfinder, just in case
-		CV_StealthSetValue(&cv_itemfinder, 0);
+		if (!dedicated) // except in dedicated servers, where it is not registered and can actually I_Error debug builds
+			CV_StealthSetValue(&cv_itemfinder, 0);
 	}
 
 	// internal game map