Game Informer Closes After Three Decades Online

After 33 years as a leading voice in gaming journalism, Game Informer, a publication owned by GameStop, has unexpectedly ceased operations. This article explores the announcement, Game Informer's history, and the impact on its staff.

Game Informer's Final Chapter

The Sudden Closure and GameStop's Decision

On August 2nd, Game Informer's Twitter (X) account delivered the shocking news: immediate closure of both its print magazine and online presence. This abrupt end to a 33-year legacy stunned fans and industry professionals alike. The announcement acknowledged the magazine's long journey, from the early days of pixelated games to today's advanced virtual worlds, expressing gratitude to its loyal readership. While the publication is gone, the passion for gaming it fostered will endure.

Employees learned of the closure in a Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR, receiving immediate layoff notices. Issue #367, featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard, will be the final issue. The entire website has been taken offline, replaced by a farewell message, effectively erasing 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. Launched in August 1991 as an in-house newsletter by FuncoLand (later acquired by GameStop in 2000), it quickly became a staple in the gaming world.

Game Informer Online debuted in August 1996, offering daily news and articles. After a brief closure around 2001 following GameStop's acquisition, it relaunched in 2003 with a redesigned website, enhanced features, and subscriber-exclusive content.

A major website redesign in 2009 introduced new features, including a media player, user activity feed, and user reviews. The popular podcast, "The Game Informer Show," also premiered that year.

However, GameStop's struggles in recent years, amidst the decline of physical game sales, significantly impacted Game Informer. Despite a surge in GameStop's stock price, the company implemented several rounds of layoffs at Game Informer, hindering its operations. After removing Game Informer from its rewards program, GameStop briefly allowed the publication to sell directly to subscribers before its ultimate closure.

Employee Reactions and Industry Response

The sudden closure has left employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media posts reflect disbelief and sadness over the abrupt ending and the loss of their contributions to gaming journalism. Former staff members, some with decades of service, shared memories and expressed frustration at the lack of advance notice.

The official Konami account on X expressed gratitude for Game Informer's contributions to the industry. Former staff members shared their disappointment, highlighting the unfinished work and the sudden loss of a significant part of their professional lives. The sentiment was echoed across the gaming community, with many expressing their sorrow and reminiscing about the magazine's impact.

The irony wasn't lost on some; Bloomberg's Jason Schreier noted that the farewell message posted by GameStop could have been written by AI.

Game Informer's closure marks a significant loss for gaming journalism. For 33 years, it served as a cornerstone of the gaming community, providing insightful coverage and reviews. Its abrupt shutdown highlights the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital age, leaving a void that will be felt for years to come. The legacy of Game Informer, however, will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the gaming community.