Game Informer, the iconic video game magazine that has been an industry standard and leader in coverage since 1991, has officially closed its doors and its entire staff laid off. In a post on X on Friday, the GameStop-owned outlet posted their goodbye to the gaming industry titled “The Final Level: Farewell from Game Informer.”

The post reads as follows:

“After 33 thrilling years of bringing you the latest news, reviews, and insights from the ever-evolving world of gaming, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Game Informer.

From the early days of pixelated adventures to today’s immersive virtual realms, we’ve been honored to share this incredible journey with you, our loyal readers. While our presses may stop, the passion for gaming that we’ve cultivated together will continue to live on.

Thank you for being part of our epic quest, and may your own gaming adventures never end.”

The Final Level: Farewell from Game Informer 🕹️ pic.twitter.com/tmrEB2TE7U

— Game Informer (@gameinformer) August 2, 2024

Te outlet did not give a reason for the shutdown, though with the magazine being owned by GameStop, the reason seems to be pretty clear. In 2023, CEO Ryan Cohen said in an internal email that “every expense at the company must be scrutinized under a microscope and all waste eliminated.” Then earlier this year, Game Informer introduced a direct way to subscribe to the magazine without going through a GameStop Pro membership, seemingly a positive move at the time. In the end, it was not enough, and GameStop decided to shutter the outlet.

Many former employees are sounding off on the platform today with varying degrees of emotions.

Heartbroken and angry. Most of my adult life was spent at Game Informer. All day, I’ve been remembering amazing moments I had with the team – some of the most talented and kindhearted people I’ve ever met and was lucky enough to work with. End of an era, but GI forever!

— Andrew Reiner (@Andrew_Reiner) August 2, 2024

As someone who was there at issue one and spent most of their life fighting and scratching and clawing for GI, it breaks my heart to see it end. GI will always hold a special place in my heart. As always, the people are who matter. What an amazing journey for us all. GI4ever. https://t.co/h89FFMLRW6

— Andy McNamara (@TheRealAndyMc) August 2, 2024

I'm furious about the end of Game Informer. It was an incredible 33-year run and then GameStop pumps out this phony/empty farewell message. I'd bet money it was written by AI.

Fuck you, GameStop and a huge fuck you to Ryan Cohen. https://t.co/XeTY5HoxNV

— Ben Hanson (@yozetty) August 2, 2024

Game Informer has been closed down by GameStop and the entire, incredibly talented staff (including myself) have all been laid off. A frustrating turn of events (especially considering we were about 70% done with the next issue and it was going to have a GREAT cover).

— Kyle Hilliard (@KyleMHilliard) August 2, 2024

I lost my job at Game Informer today.

I’m heartbroken – it was my dream job – but my bills don’t care.

Effective immediately, I’m available for filming/video editing/documentary/hosting work. My passport and cameras are ready to go.

Hire me: https://t.co/PiDiICtp0D https://t.co/sOr8pefL51

— Alex Van Aken (@itsVanAken) August 2, 2024

Today’s my second time being laid off from Game Informer. Last time, I was still able to look forward to new issues at least.

I am devastated, for myself, for all of the amazing people that worked here, for all the writers who wanted to write for GI.

GI forever💔 https://t.co/IH6xdSbsPr

— Wesley LeBlanc (@LeBlancWes) August 2, 2024

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Game Informer Magazine was founded in 1991 and quickly became a leading publication in the gaming industry. Over the years, it provided in-depth reviews, industry news, and coverage of big events like E3 and CES. Acquired by GameStop in 2000, it expanded its reach and influence within the games industry with its features, interviews, videos, and iconic magazine covers.

Game Informer Magazine was a staple in most of our lives for a long time. I still have my very first issue from June 1998 with Banjo-Kazooie on the cover. Our hearts go out to those affected and we hope you find work very soon.

What are your thoughts on Game Informer closing down? Let us know in the comments or in our Discord.

Source: X.com via GameInformer

Source: The Verge

Featured Image Source: Game Informer

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Corey Dirrig is the Founder and President of Boss Rush Media. He is the host of The Boss Rush Podcast, Nintendo Pow Block, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and cohosts a variety of other podcasts and content. You can follow Corey on Bluesky, on X/Twitter, and on Instagram or connect with him on LinkedIn for Business Inquiries.

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