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.”
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.
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
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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