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

After 33 years as a leading gaming magazine, Game Informer has been abruptly shut down by GameStop, leaving a significant gap in the gaming journalism landscape. This article explores the announcement, the magazine's rich history, and the emotional reactions from its former staff.

Game Informer's Unexpected Demise

The Closure and GameStop's Decision

On August 2nd, Game Informer's social media channels announced the immediate closure of both its print and online platforms. This shocking news stunned fans and industry professionals alike, bringing to an end a 33-year legacy. The announcement acknowledged the magazine's long history, from the early days of pixelated games to the current era of immersive virtual worlds, expressing gratitude to its readers. However, the abrupt nature of the closure left employees reeling. A Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR delivered the news of immediate layoffs, with severance details to follow. 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, news, reviews, and strategies, launched in August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand. GameStop's acquisition of FuncoLand in 2000 brought GI under its umbrella.

The online presence, GameInformer.com, initially launched in 1996, underwent several iterations. A significant redesign in 2003 introduced new features like a review database and subscriber-exclusive content. A further redesign in 2009 brought a revamped media player and user review capabilities, alongside the debut of the "Game Informer Show" podcast.

In recent years, GameStop's struggles impacted Game Informer, leading to job cuts and shifting priorities. Despite a brief period of renewed independence with direct subscriber sales, the ultimate decision to shut down the publication highlights the challenges facing traditional media in the digital age.

The Fallout: Employees React

The sudden closure has left employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media is filled with expressions of disbelief and sorrow from former staff, many of whom dedicated years, even decades, to the magazine. Their comments highlight the lack of notice and the loss of their contributions to gaming journalism. Tributes have poured in from across the gaming industry, highlighting Game Informer's impact.

The irony that even AI could have written a more empathetic farewell message wasn't lost on observers. The swift and unceremonious end to Game Informer marks a significant loss for gaming journalism, leaving a void that will be felt by its readers and the industry as a whole. While the magazine may be gone, its legacy of in-depth coverage and insightful reporting will undoubtedly endure.