Say It Ain’t So
I didn’t want to finish this book, but it’s the last chapter. Not because it wasn’t enjoyable, but rather because of its exceptional quality. Always looking forward to the next GameInformer with the same excitement I have for the next game season or update. You felt happy to be a member of the gaming community because of the consistent quality, amazing artwork, and strong feeling of community.
Unfortunately, GameStop, the parent company of Game Informer, has abruptly shut down the once-loved gaming magazine and website. Many people were surprised by this revelation, including myself as a current magazine subscriber. (who just renewed there 2-yr sub) It ends 33 years of incredible gaming news, reviews, and insights that have served as a mainstay for gamers all across the world.
A Shallow End
The finale farewell from GameInformer felt empty and unlike what we know from the team. “Game Informer” sent out the following ruthless letter to its readers:
Most endings are never pretty, but this feels worse then the final season of Game of Thrones. Corporate greed will always be the bane of true creative potential.
An added disappointment comes with the fact that the GameInformer website is now inaccessible! The website allowed you access to digital copies of each magazine back to the mid 200s issues. (Unfortunately not further) It’s a true shame that gaming history is being deleted before our very eyes.
As evidence of this, (and showing my age lol) the 2007 issue of GameInformer’s initial magazine that showcased Borderlands had entirely different visuals. After the issue, the graphics were altered to a comic book style, which proved to be an effective and visible modification.
(And I played the S#%T out of the 1st Borderlands)
Its made more disheartening with the fact it came to a surprise to most GameInformer employees. The article at SmashJT.com does a great job covering the many disappointing reactions to the news. One in particular that resonates with me is by Ben Henson and follows:
(I bet it was written by AI)
Wicked’s Take
Ever since my mother used to take me to Gamestop when I was little and gave me a subscription, I have personally been a member of GameInformer. I recall when it was called “EB Games” before it had a name change. And maybe I’m biased because I worked at Gamestop for a few years later in life. (And right) It’s quite unfortunate to see a business that truly demonstrated love for their work shut down. Particularly now that transparency seems uncommon and a lot of major gaming publications appear to have hidden agendas. (Perhaps due to their ownership by the massively influential, formerly reliable gaming publication… cough) The staff at GameInformer are excellent, and they are in my own opinion, among the few people I would ever “consult” with about my game. (If I were making one)
But what the heck do I know, I’m just a freaking clown!!
Stay Wicked
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