Game Informer's Legacy Ends After 33 Years

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

The Unexpected Closure

On August 2nd, a Twitter (X) post announced the immediate closure of both the print and online versions of Game Informer. This abrupt end to a 33-year run stunned fans and professionals alike. The statement acknowledged the magazine's long history, from its early days covering pixelated games to its recent coverage of immersive virtual worlds, expressing gratitude to its readers. However, the reality for the staff was far less sentimental. A Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR delivered the news of immediate layoffs, leaving issue #367, featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard, as the final publication. The website has been completely removed, replaced with a farewell message.

A Look Back at Game Informer's History

Game Informer, an American monthly video game magazine, debuted in August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand, later acquired by GameStop in 2000. Its online presence began in August 1996, initially shut down around January 2001, only to be revived in September 2003 with a redesigned website offering news, reviews, and subscriber-exclusive content.

A major website redesign launched in October 2009, introducing new features like a media player and user reviews, alongside the launch of the "Game Informer Show" podcast. However, GameStop's struggles in recent years, coupled with internal restructuring and layoffs, ultimately led to Game Informer's demise. Despite a brief period of selling directly to subscribers, the final decision to close the publication arrived swiftly.

Staff Reactions and Industry Mourning

The sudden closure has understandably devastated the Game Informer staff. Social media posts reveal shock, disbelief, and frustration over the lack of notice. Former employees, some with decades of service, shared memories and expressed sadness at the loss of their contributions to gaming journalism. Industry figures and former colleagues expressed their condolences and acknowledged the magazine's significant impact. The sentiment was echoed by many, including Konami, which expressed fond memories of waiting for each new issue. The irony wasn't lost on many that a ChatGPT-generated message could have easily mirrored the official farewell statement.

The closure of Game Informer signifies a significant loss for gaming journalism. Its 33-year contribution to the gaming community, providing insightful coverage and reviews, leaves a void. While the publication is gone, its legacy and the memories it created will undoubtedly endure.