Game Informer has just announced that it has been shut down by its parent company, GameStop, the video game retailer turned meme stock sensation. In their final message, Game Informer expressed gratitude to their readers for 33 incredible years, saying, “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.”

The announcement confirmed that all staff members were laid off around noon today, with some employees unaware of the news if they hadn’t checked social media. Content Director Kyle Hilliard noted they were 70% done with the next issue when the news hit. GameStop has not yet made a public statement regarding the shutdown.

Game Informer was first published in 1991 and quickly became a staple in the gaming community, known for its in-depth reviews, exclusive previews, and insightful articles. Its unique position as a GameStop publication allowed it to gain widespread circulation and influence in the gaming world. For many, including myself, Game Informer was more than just a magazine. It was a cherished part of our gaming journey. Reading Game Informer alongside playing games created some of my earliest and fondest gaming memories. Over the years, the editors felt like friends, and it was surreal to connect with some of them online as I entered the industry myself. This closure marks the end of an era, and the dedicated team at Game Informer deserved better than what they received from GameStop in recent years. The magazine will be deeply missed by many.

The writing has been on the wall for some time, as Game Informer continually cut staff, leaving a skeleton crew to produce a magazine and online content that competed with larger outlets. The gaming media landscape has become increasingly challenging, characterized by:

• Giant conglomerates like Ziff Davis/Gamurs buying up major and minor sites to dominate internet traffic.
• Sites shutting down entirely.
• A few lucky individuals moving towards paid newsletters or independent sites.
• Large mainstream outlets maintaining gaming sections.

In short, it’s a tough industry to survive in.

Game Informer stood out as a physical magazine, sold mainly through GameStop. Over recent years, GameStop has undergone several transformations, struggling to remain relevant as a physical game store in a digital age. The store now focuses more on hardware and collectibles than on games. Additionally, GameStop gained notoriety as a meme stock, experiencing wild fluctuations since 2021 as amateur investors sought to profit from it.

As we say goodbye to Game Informer, it’s important to acknowledge the shifting landscape of media and journalism. The rise of digital media and changing consumer habits have significantly impacted traditional print media. The challenges faced by Game Informer are reflective of broader industry trends where adaptability and innovation are crucial for survival.

In conclusion, while Game Informer’s closure is a significant loss, it also highlights the resilience and adaptability required in the evolving media landscape. The legacy of Game Informer and its contribution to the gaming community will not be forgotten. As we look forward, we can only hope for new ventures and opportunities for the talented individuals who made Game Informer a beloved institution.