Game Informer, Gaming Publication Extinguished After Three Decades

GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a gaming journalism stalwart for over three decades, has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article explores the announcement, reflects on Game Informer's rich history, and examines the emotional responses from its former staff.

Game Informer's Final Chapter

The Closure and GameStop's Actions

On August 2nd, a tweet from Game Informer's X account delivered the devastating news: the magazine and its online presence were ceasing operations. This abrupt end to a 33-year legacy 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. However, the closure was immediate, with all staff laid off without prior warning. 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 covering video games, consoles, and gaming culture, debuted in August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand. Following GameStop's acquisition of FuncoLand in 2000, Game Informer continued its run.

Its online counterpart, GameInformer.com, launched in August 1996, providing daily news and articles. A redesigned website with enhanced features, including a review database and subscriber-exclusive content, launched in September 2003.

A major website redesign in October 2009 introduced new features like a media player and user reviews, coinciding with a magazine redesign and the launch of the "Game Informer Show" podcast.

In recent years, GameStop's struggles impacted Game Informer, leading to job cuts and shifting strategies. Despite a brief period of selling subscriptions directly, the ultimate decision to close the publication has been made.

Staff Reactions and Industry Mourning

The sudden closure has understandably devastated Game Informer's staff. Social media posts express shock, grief, and frustration over the lack of notice and the loss of their contributions. Former employees, some with decades of service, shared memories and voiced their concerns.

Industry figures expressed their condolences and highlighted the magazine's impact. Konami's official account on X fondly reminisced about eagerly awaiting each new issue. Former staff members like Kyle Hilliard, Liana Ruppert, and Andy McNamara shared their disappointment and heartbreak at the abrupt end of this iconic publication.

Jason Schreier of Bloomberg even pointed out the uncanny similarity between the official farewell message and one generated by ChatGPT, highlighting the impersonal nature of the closure.

Game Informer's closure signifies the end of an era in gaming journalism. Its 33-year run has left an indelible mark on the gaming community, and its sudden demise underscores the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital landscape. The legacy of Game Informer, and the countless stories it shared, will undoubtedly endure in the memories of its readers and the industry it served.