đź’” IGN buys Gamer Network, causing layoffs. What does this mean for Dicebreaker, Eurogamer and gaming media?
Lately, we can’t stop talking to you about game publishers being bought out (and you may be a little… fed up. Don’t worry, so are we!). But today, bam. This is a buyout again. But this time in a fun medium. Not from a game publisher. It changes.
IGN Entertainment’s recent acquisition of the Gamer Network is shaking up the media industry, triggering waves of layoffs and sparking understandable, deep concerns in the community. Let’s take a look at this transaction that could redefine the gaming media landscape and what it means for us, avid gamers.
An expected sale, but unexpected layoffs
For months, rumors had been circulating about a possible sale of the Gamer Network sites after ReedPop (owner of Gamer Network for six years) considered selling it. However, an internal source attempted to allay concerns, saying that “the situation was not as bad as we thought” and that some sites like Eurogamer and Rock Paper Shotgun were doing “very well”.
Despite these assurances, the acquisition by IGN was accompanied by a wave of layoffs that hit well-known names such as Brendan Sinclair and Jeffrey Rousseau of GamesIndustry.biz, Alice Bell of Rock Paper Shotgun and Stephany Nunneley-Jackson of VG247.
Guess who has two thumbs and is being made redundant following my company getting new owners
— Alice Bell (@ABeeWords) May 21, 2024
Hello folks, I’ve unfortunately been laid off from @GIBiz I’m fine really.
I’m open to new work opportunities. If you require the skills of an award-winning reporter/journalist with a focus on marginalized voices and B2B writing, please consider me.
I’d appreciate it
— Jeffrey Rousseau (@JRpotential) May 21, 2024
If you are just hearing about (or have heard about) the Gamer Network acquisition, I’m part of the cut group. So, on that note… if anyone is in need of a spunky (but very nice, I promise) News Editor with over 20 years experience, 15 at VG247, I’m your gal.
— Stephany Nunneley-Jackson (@StephNunneley) May 21, 2024
Massive layoffs: A blow to the industry
The departures of these veteran journalists sent a shock through the industry. Whether at GamesIndustry.biz, Rock Paper Shotgun or VG247, each site loses talent who helped build their identity and reputation.
Alice Bell, for example, was a pillar of Rock Paper Shotgun, bringing a critical mind and a unique approach that appealed to readers. His fear? This acquisition standardizes content and gives priority to articles optimized for SEO, to the detriment of in-depth analyses.
Dicebreaker: A glimmer of hope in the turmoil
In this ocean of uncertainty, Dicebreaker remains a beacon. Launched in 2019, this site specializing in board game journalism has quickly risen to the rank of an essential reference. Are you looking for in-depth reviews, investigations into the major players in the industry, or simply exciting reports? Dicebreaker is the answer.
The team of Matt Jarvis, Alex Meehan, Chase Carter, Michael Whelan, Olivia Kennedy and Maddie Cullen have so far stayed clear of redundancies. But for how long ? Carter and Kennedy have previously expressed their concerns on Twitter, highlighting the challenges of this time of uncertainty.
Media consolidation is a growing phenomenon in the games industry, whether for developers or websites. The integration of Gamer Network sites into the IGN empire raises crucial questions.
What will happen to their unique voices? Will niche or controversial articles still find their place? Alice Bell dreads it, and so do we. Gamer Network sites stood out for their “quirkiness” and critical thinking. Will IGN be able to preserve these characteristics?
The impact on board games
For board game fans, this acquisition could have major consequences. Dicebreaker, with its innovative approach and in-depth investigations, has set the bar high. Investigations into the alleged toxic culture at Pandasaurus Games, analyzes of the consequences of the decline of Twitter on board game creators… This kind of journalism is rare, and precious. We know what we’re talking about! But if commercial pressure pushes for standardization, this critical reporting could disappear.
The consequences for employees (and us!)
Mass layoffs not only affect those directly affected, but also those left behind. With fewer staff, the additional workload could impact the quality and diversity of content produced. For readers, this means a potentially less varied and less critical offering. SEO-optimized articles could replace in-depth analysis and exclusive reporting.
However, all is not bleak. The acquisition by IGN could also bring benefits. Better financial stability and increased resources could allow sites to grow and innovate. But this will require striking a delicate balance between commercial imperatives and editorial integrity. IGN must understand the importance of diversity of voices and support the journalists who make these platforms rich.
So, what does the future hold for Dicebreaker, Eurogamer, Rock Paper Shotgun, GamesIndustry.biz and VG247 under the IGN umbrella? Loyal readers and employees hope that these platforms can maintain their identity and editorial independence. But let’s be realistic, integrating into a large media group like IGN will inevitably bring changes.
With the integration of these sites into a larger whole, the temptation to standardize content is strong. After all, we’re not going to hide it, articles optimized for SEO and general public topics are financially more… profitable. But abandoning in-depth analyzes and unique perspectives would be a big mistake. Readers don’t just want generic articles; they want personality, tailor-made content.
The value of independent journalism (like… us?)
IGN’s acquisition of Gamer Network raises broader questions about the value of independent journalism in games. We need critical, independent voices to challenge the industry and offer fresh perspectives.
Sites like Eurogamer and Rock Paper Shotgun have often been the whistleblowers on topics that other media preferred to avoid. Losing this independence would be a great, great loss!
Support journalists
Independent journalists, like those who worked at Gamer Network, are the guardians of our shared passion. They deserve our support, especially in these uncertain times. Whether you are a loyal reader or an occasional player, subscribe to their newsletters, share their articles, and make your voice heard on social networks. This is how we can help protect these platforms and preserve the diversity of content (what do you mean I’m preaching for our parish???).
Now, balancing business imperatives and editorial integrity will be the major challenge for IGN. The pressure to generate revenue should not overshadow the importance of diversity of voices and perspectives. IGN must invest in these sites to help them grow while respecting their editorial autonomy.
An uncertain future, but full of hope. The future of Dicebreaker and other Gamer Network sites remains uncertain. But there are reasons to hope. IGN has the financial resources to support these sites and help them thrive. However, this will only be possible if IGN recognizes the value of their independence and unique identity. Fingers crossed, and toes crossed.
Conclusion: Protecting our passion
IGN’s acquisition of Gamer Network marks a significant turning point for gaming and board media. The layoffs that followed are a stark reminder of the challenges journalists face in this ever-changing industry.
IGN now owns a powerful network of platforms, each with a distinct community and style. The challenge is high: finding a fair balance between the economic imperatives of a large company and preserving the critical and independent spirit that is the strength of these sites. As for us, as a community, we must stand united, defend the voices that inspire us and never stop valuing quality journalism.
Together, we can protect our passion and ensure these platforms continue to thrive, even in an ever-changing media landscape.
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