GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a gaming journalism stalwart for over three decades, has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article delves into the announcement, explores Game Informer's rich history, and examines the emotional responses from its former staff.
Game Informer's Final Chapter
The Closure and GameStop's Rationale
On August 2nd, Game Informer's Twitter (X) account delivered the devastating news: immediate closure of both its print and online platforms. This abrupt end to a 33-year legacy stunned fans and professionals alike. The announcement acknowledged the magazine's long journey, from the early days of pixelated graphics to today's immersive gaming experiences, expressing gratitude to its dedicated readership. While the publication ceases operations, the spirit of gaming fostered by Game Informer will endure.
The magazine's staff, including those working on the website, podcast, and online video documentaries, received the news of their immediate layoff during a Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR. Issue #367, featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard on its cover, will be the final edition. The entire website has been removed, replaced with a farewell message, effectively erasing decades of gaming history from the internet.
A Look Back at Game Informer's Legacy
Game Informer (GI), a monthly American video game magazine, provided readers with articles, news, strategy guides, and reviews of games and consoles. Its origins trace back to August 1991, as an in-house newsletter for the video game retailer FuncoLand. GameStop, which acquired FuncoLand in 2000, inherited the publication.
Game Informer Online debuted in August 1996, offering daily news and articles. Justin Leeper and Matthew Kato joined as full-time web editors in 1999, but the original GameInformer.com was shut down around January 2001 following GameStop's acquisition. Both Leeper and Kato later joined the magazine's editorial team.
GI Online was relaunched in September 2003 at the same domain, featuring a redesigned interface, a review database, regular news updates, and premium content for subscribers.
A significant website redesign, launched October 1, 2009, coincided with a redesign of the print magazine. This update introduced features like a revamped media player, user activity feeds, and user review capabilities. The popular Game Informer Show podcast also premiered at this time.
However, GameStop's struggles following the decline of physical game sales negatively impacted Game Informer. Inept management and inconsistent directives hampered the publication. Despite GameStop's financial success from its meme stock surge, job cuts continued, including recurring layoffs at Game Informer. After removing Game Informer's print editions from its rewards program, GameStop recently allowed the publication to resume direct sales to subscribers. This brief reprieve ultimately proved to be a prelude to the magazine's closure.
The Outpouring of Grief from Former Employees
The sudden closure has left former Game Informer employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media became a platform for expressing disbelief and sadness. Long-time staff members shared memories and voiced frustration over the lack of notice and the loss of their contributions to gaming journalism.
Konami's official X account expressed gratitude for Game Informer's impact on the industry. Former content director Kyle Hilliard noted the advanced progress on the next issue, highlighting the wasted effort. Liana Ruppert, a former staffer, lamented the loss of her work and expressed concern for those who dedicated more time to the publication. Andy McNamara, former editor-in-chief, who spent 29 years with the magazine, shared his heartbreak at its demise.
Bloomberg's Jason Schreier pointed out the eerie 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, providing insightful coverage and reviews, leaves a void. The sudden shutdown underscores the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital age. While the publication is gone, its legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of its readers and the countless stories it helped tell.
