GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a gaming journalism giant with a 33-year history, has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article explores the announcement, Game Informer's legacy, and the emotional responses from its staff.
Game Informer's Final Chapter
The Closure and GameStop's Actions
On August 2nd, Game Informer's Twitter (X) account delivered the unexpected news: the magazine and its online presence were ceasing operations. This abrupt end to a 33-year run stunned fans and professionals alike. The announcement acknowledged the magazine's journey, from the early days of pixelated games to today's immersive experiences, expressing gratitude to its loyal readership. While the publication is gone, the spirit of gaming fostered by Game Informer endures.
The magazine's staff, including those contributing to the website, podcast, and video documentaries, received the news of immediate closure and layoffs during a Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR. Issue #367, featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard, becomes the final edition. The website's complete removal from the internet, redirecting all links to a farewell message, represents the erasure of decades of gaming history.
A Look Back at Game Informer's History
Game Informer (GI), an American monthly video game magazine, provided articles, news, strategy guides, and reviews. Its origins trace back to August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand, later acquired by GameStop in 2000.
Game Informer Online launched in August 1996, initially offering daily news and articles. Following GameStop's acquisition, the original site was closed around January 2001. A relaunched GI Online in September 2003 featured a redesigned site with expanded content, including a review database and subscriber-exclusive features.
A major website redesign in October 2009, coinciding with a magazine redesign, introduced new features like a media player and user reviews. The popular podcast, "The Game Informer Show," also debuted at this time.
In recent years, GameStop's struggles impacted Game Informer, creating challenges with management and shifting priorities. Despite a meme stock surge, job cuts continued, impacting Game Informer's staff. After removing physical copies from its rewards program, GameStop recently allowed Game Informer to sell directly to subscribers, hinting at potential independence or a sale – a possibility that ultimately didn't materialize.
Staff Reactions and Industry Mourning
The sudden closure has left former employees devastated and shocked. Social media posts express disbelief and sadness over the lost work and legacy. Long-time staff shared memories and frustration over the lack of notice. Industry figures and former employees voiced their support and shared their grief over the loss. The Konami account on X offered thanks for Game Informer's contributions, while former staff members like Kyle Hilliard, Liana Ruppert, and Andy McNamara shared their personal feelings about the closure.
Journalist Jason Schreier noted the similarity between the official farewell message and one generated by ChatGPT, highlighting the impersonal nature of the decision.
Game Informer's closure marks a significant loss for gaming journalism. Its 33-year contribution to the gaming community leaves a void, underscoring the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital age. The legacy of Game Informer will be remembered by its readers and the countless stories it shared.
