In a move that’s already stirring outrage across the industry, Vox Media has sold Polygon, one of gaming’s most trusted editorial platforms, to Valnet, the Canadian media conglomerate behind Game Rant, TheGamer, and others. Known more for its aggressive monetization tactics than quality journalism, Valnet’s latest grab has many asking: is this the death of free, honest gaming coverage?
Paywalls and Forced Accounts: Valnet’s MO
Valnet’s model is simple — and alarming. Most of its gaming websites require readers to create an account just to continue reading, with some even nudging users toward paid subscriptions. For readers just looking to stay informed, the experience is frustrating and unnecessary. For journalism, it’s a red flag.
Polygon was once a place where deep dives, features, and carefully crafted content stood above the noise. With Valnet at the helm, those days may be numbered.
Mass Layoffs Raise Eyebrows
The acquisition wasn’t even finalized before the damage began. Several key staff were immediately let go, including founding editor-in-chief Chris Plante and senior reporter Nicole Carpenter. Notably, most of those laid off were members of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), and the cuts came just as Vox Media’s union contract was about to expire — a detail that hasn’t gone unnoticed.
GamingHQ’s Stand: Free News, No Strings Attached
While major outlets drift toward gated content and pay-to-read practices, GamingHQ is taking a different stance.
Here’s our promise:
- No logins.
- No subscriptions.
- No paywalls.
- Just honest, accessible news for every gamer.
We believe journalism shouldn’t come with a price tag. If others want to sell access to information, that’s their choice. But here? GamingHQ is — and always will be — free.
