Game Informer Erased: 33-Year Gaming Publication Vanishes

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

Game Informer's Legacy Ends: A 33-Year Run Concludes

GameStop's decision to shutter Game Informer, a prominent gaming magazine with a 33-year history, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. This article details the announcement, explores Game Informer's impactful journey, and examines the emotional responses from its staff.

The Unexpected Closure

On August 2nd, a Twitter (X) post announced the immediate closure of both Game Informer's print and online platforms. This abrupt ending to a 33-year legacy stunned fans and industry professionals. The announcement acknowledged the magazine's long history, spanning from the early days of video games to the current era of immersive gaming experiences. While the publication is ceasing operations, the statement assured readers that the passion for gaming fostered by Game Informer will endure.

Employees learned of the closure in a Friday meeting with GameStop's VP of HR, receiving immediate layoff notices. Issue #367, featuring a Dragon Age: The Veilguard cover story, will be the magazine's final edition. The entire website has been removed, with historical links now redirecting to a farewell message, effectively erasing decades of gaming history from the internet.

A Look Back at Game Informer's History

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

Game Informer, an American monthly video game magazine, provided 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, a video game retailer. GameStop's acquisition of FuncoLand in 2000 brought Game Informer under its umbrella.

Game Informer Online debuted in August 1996, offering daily news and articles. The website underwent several redesigns and expansions over the years, adding features like a review database, exclusive content, and a podcast, "The Game Informer Show." However, recent years saw GameStop's struggles impact the magazine, leading to job cuts and operational changes. Despite a brief period of renewed subscriber sales, the ultimate decision to close the publication has been made.

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

The Staff's Reaction

The sudden closure has left former and current employees heartbroken and shocked. Social media posts reflect disbelief and sadness at the abrupt end of their employment and the loss of Game Informer's legacy. Many shared memories and expressed frustration over the lack of advance notice.

Statements from former staff, including Andy McNamara (29 years with the publication) and Kyle Hilliard (former content director), highlight the emotional impact and the unfinished work left behind. The sentiment is echoed across social media, with many expressing their disappointment and support for the affected employees. Even the observation that the farewell message resembled one generated by ChatGPT underscores the impersonal nature of the closure.

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

The End of an Era

Game Informer's closure marks a significant loss for gaming journalism. For 33 years, it served as a cornerstone of the gaming community, providing comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis. Its sudden demise underscores the challenges facing traditional media in the digital age. While the publication may be gone, its contribution to gaming history and the memories it created will undoubtedly endure.