Game Informer's Legacy Ends After 33 Years

GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a prominent gaming publication, has sent shockwaves through the industry. After 33 years of covering the gaming world, the magazine and its website have been abruptly discontinued, leaving employees laid off and fans reeling.

The Unexpected Closure

On August 2nd, a brief announcement on X (formerly Twitter) signaled the end of Game Informer. The message acknowledged the magazine's long history, from its early days covering pixelated games to the current era of immersive virtual realities. While expressing gratitude to readers, the announcement offered little explanation for the sudden closure.

Employees learned of the shutdown in a Friday meeting, receiving immediate layoff notices. Issue #367, featuring Dragon Age: The Veilguard, will be the final print edition. The entire website has been taken down, replaced with a farewell message, effectively erasing decades of gaming history.

A Look Back at Game Informer's History

Launched in August 1991 as an in-house newsletter for FuncoLand, Game Informer evolved into a respected monthly magazine covering video game news, reviews, and strategy guides. Acquired by GameStop in 2000, the publication also developed a robust online presence, initially launched in 1996 and relaunched in 2003 with expanded features. A major website redesign in 2009 introduced a media player, user reviews, and the popular Game Informer Show podcast.

However, GameStop's financial struggles in recent years, coupled with internal management issues, ultimately led to the magazine's demise. Despite a brief period of renewed hope when Game Informer regained direct subscriber sales, the final decision to close came swiftly and without warning.

Outpouring of Grief and Disbelief

The sudden closure has left former employees heartbroken and angry. Social media is filled with expressions of disbelief and sadness, with many sharing memories and lamenting the lack of notice. Comments from former staff members, including Andy McNamara (29 years with the publication) and others, highlight the dedication and passion invested in Game Informer, only to see it vanish overnight. The sentiment is echoed by industry figures, with Konami expressing fond memories of the magazine. Even the eerily similar farewell message generated by ChatGPT has been noted, highlighting the impersonal nature of the decision.

The End of an Era

Game Informer's closure marks a significant loss for gaming journalism. Its 33-year run represents a substantial contribution to the gaming community, and its sudden disappearance underscores the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital landscape. While the publication is gone, its legacy and the impact it had on the gaming world will undoubtedly endure.