GameStop's abrupt closure of Game Informer, a gaming journalism mainstay for over three decades, has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article explores the announcement, the magazine's history, and the outpouring of emotion from its former staff.
Game Informer's Final Chapter
The Closure and GameStop's Decision
On August 2nd, a Twitter (X) post delivered the devastating news: Game Informer, both print and online, was ceasing operations. This unexpected announcement ended a 33-year run, leaving fans and professionals stunned. The statement acknowledged the magazine's journey from the early days of pixelated games to today's immersive experiences, thanking readers for their unwavering support. While the publication is gone, the passion for gaming it fostered will endure.
The magazine's staff, including those working on 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, will be its last. The entire website has been removed, replaced by a farewell message, effectively erasing decades of gaming history.
A Look Back at Game Informer's History
Game Informer (GI), a monthly magazine providing game reviews, news, and strategy guides, debuted in August 1991 as a FuncoLand newsletter. GameStop acquired it in 2000 after purchasing FuncoLand.
The online presence, GameInformer.com, launched in August 1996, initially featuring daily updates and articles. After GameStop's acquisition, the original site closed around January 2001. A relaunched GI Online appeared in September 2003, offering enhanced features like a review database and subscriber-exclusive content.
A major website redesign in October 2009 coincided with a magazine redesign, introducing new features like a media player and user reviews. The popular podcast, "The Game Informer Show," also premiered at this time.
In recent years, GameStop's struggles impacted Game Informer. Despite a meme-stock surge, cost-cutting measures, including layoffs at Game Informer, continued. After removing physical copies from its rewards program, GameStop recently allowed direct subscriber sales, hinting at a potential spin-off or sale—a possibility now rendered moot.
The Staff's Reaction
The sudden closure has left employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media reflects their disbelief and sadness, with former staff, some with decades of service, sharing memories and frustration over the lack of warning. Tributes poured in, highlighting the publication's impact on gaming journalism.
Konami's official account expressed gratitude, while former staff members like Kyle Hilliard (former content director) and Liana Ruppert (former staffer) voiced their disappointment and concern for colleagues. Andy McNamara, a former editor-in-chief with a 29-year tenure, shared his heartbreak at the publication's end.
Bloomberg's Jason Schreier noted the similarity between the official farewell message and one generated by ChatGPT, highlighting the impersonal nature of the closure.
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. While the publication is gone, its legacy and the countless stories it shared will remain.
