Game Informer Shut Down and Wiped From the Internet After 33 Years as a Gaming Magazine

GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a gaming journalism giant with a 33-year history, has sent shockwaves through the industry. This article explores the announcement, the magazine's legacy, and the employees' reactions.

Game Informer's Final Chapter

The Closure and GameStop's Rationale

On August 2nd, a tweet from Game Informer's (now defunct) X account announced the immediate closure of both the print magazine and its online presence. This unexpected news stunned fans and industry veterans alike, bringing an abrupt end to a 33-year run chronicling gaming's evolution from pixelated beginnings to today's immersive worlds. While the announcement expressed gratitude to its readers, the suddenness of the decision left many reeling. The final issue, #367 (featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard on the cover), will be its last. The entire website has been wiped, replaced with a farewell message, effectively erasing decades of gaming history. Employees were informed of the immediate closure and subsequent layoffs in a Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR.

Game Informer's Enduring Impact

Game Informer, an American monthly publication, delivered in-depth articles, news, strategy guides, and reviews of video games and consoles. Its origins trace back to August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand, later acquired by GameStop in 2000.

The online presence, GameInformer.com, launched in August 1996, initially providing daily updates and articles. Following GameStop's acquisition, the original site was briefly closed before relaunching in 2003 with a redesigned interface and expanded features.

A significant website redesign in 2009 coincided with a print magazine revamp, introducing features like a media player and user reviews. The popular podcast, The Game Informer Show, also debuted around this time.

However, GameStop's struggles in recent years, particularly the decline of physical game sales, significantly impacted Game Informer. Despite a meme-stock surge, GameStop continued to implement job cuts across the board, including repeated layoffs at Game Informer. After removing physical copies from its rewards program, GameStop briefly allowed direct-to-consumer subscriptions before ultimately deciding to shut down the publication.

The Outpouring of Grief and Disbelief

The sudden closure has left former employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media became a platform for sharing disbelief, sorrow, and memories. Long-time staff members expressed frustration over the lack of notice and the loss of their contributions to gaming journalism. Tributes poured in from across the industry, highlighting Game Informer's significant impact.

Konami's official X account posted a heartfelt message, reflecting the shared sentiment of many. Former staff members, including Kyle Hilliard, Liana Ruppert, and Andy McNamara (former editor-in-chief with a 29-year tenure), shared their personal experiences and expressed their devastation.

The irony wasn't lost on observers like Bloomberg's Jason Schreier, who noted the similarity between the official farewell message and a ChatGPT-generated version.

Game Informer's closure marks a significant loss for gaming journalism. Its 33-year legacy, providing insightful coverage and fostering a vibrant community, leaves a considerable void. While the publication may be gone, its impact on gaming and its devoted readers will undoubtedly endure.