Gamer Network: A History of Evolution and Ownership
The landscape of gaming journalism has been significantly shaped by the growth and transitions of Gamer Network. From its humble beginnings as a niche enthusiast site to becoming a global network of editorial brands, the company's journey reflects the broader volatility and consolidation within the digital media industry.
The Foundations of Eurogamer Network
The company was established in 1999 by brothers Rupert and Nick Loman, originally operating under the name Eurogamer Network. The network's flagship website, Eurogamer, officially launched on September 4, 1999, serving as the cornerstone of their operations. The early years saw the company establish itself as a primary voice in gaming coverage, though the founding partnership shifted in 2004 when Nick Loman departed to pursue a career in medicine and competitive BBQ.
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International Expansion and Rebranding
As the company sought to grow its global footprint, it began acquiring established assets in the North American market. In February 2011, Eurogamer Network acquired the American publishing house Hammersuit, which brought the websites IndustryGamers.com and Modojo.com into the fold.
This expansion led to a strategic rebranding on March 1, 2013, when the company officially changed its name to Gamer Network. This change was mirrored across its subsidiaries; Hammersuit adopted the Gamer Network name, and Eurogamer Events was renamed Gamer Events. During this period of growth, Simon Maxwell was promoted to chief operating officer in October 2013.
The ReedPop Era
A major shift in ownership occurred on February 26, 2018, when ReedPop—the division of Reed Exhibitions responsible for pop culture conventions like PAX—acquired Gamer Network. Under this new ownership, Rupert Loman initially remained as CEO, while Simon Maxwell took on the roles of managing director and vice-president for ReedPop's UK operations.
The transition was not without turbulence. Rupert Loman left the company in February 2020, and by September 2020, ReedPop implemented several layoffs across various network sites. One of the most notable casualties was USgamer; after its staff was reduced from nine to four, the site was shuttered by the end of 2020.
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Acquisition by IGN Entertainment and Recent Challenges
In November 2023, ReedPop announced its intention to sell Gamer Network's editorial brands, though it retained its events business. In May 2024, IGN Entertainment was announced as the buyer. This acquisition immediately resulted in layoffs for editorial staff at GamesIndustry.biz and Rock Paper Shotgun.
The takeover also had a severe impact on Dicebreaker. The outlet cancelled its Tabletop Creators Summit at MCM Comic Con, and by June 2024, the staff reported they had been made redundant. Industry observers noted that the site had ceased publishing shortly after the May 21 sale.
Further restructuring continued into 2026. In February of that year, Eurogamer faced significant layoffs, including the loss of its entire video team. This followed a 2025 consolidation where the majority of VG247's staff were moved to Eurogamer, leaving VG247 with only two full-time writers.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1999 by Rupert and Nick Loman.
- Original Name: Eurogamer Network.
- Major Acquisitions: Hammersuit (2011), Gamer Network by ReedPop (2018), Gamer Network by IGN Entertainment (2024).
- Key Brands: Eurogamer, Rock Paper Shotgun, GamesIndustry.biz, VG247, and the now-defunct USgamer and Dicebreaker.
- Recent Trends: Significant staff reductions and consolidation of editorial teams between 2020 and 2026.
Company Evolution Summary
| Year | Event/Owner | Key Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Loman Brothers | Launch of Eurogamer and Eurogamer Network |
| 2013 | Internal Rebrand | Renamed to Gamer Network |
| 2018 | ReedPop | Acquisition of the network |
| 2024 | IGN Entertainment | Acquisition of editorial brands |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Gamer Network?
Gamer Network was founded in 1999 by brothers Rupert and Nick Loman, originally under the name Eurogamer Network.
When did the company change its name to Gamer Network?
The company officially rebranded from Eurogamer Network to Gamer Network on March 1, 2013, to align with its international expansion.
What happened to USgamer and Dicebreaker?
USgamer was shuttered by ReedPop at the end of 2020. Dicebreaker's staff were made redundant following the acquisition of Gamer Network by IGN Entertainment in 2024.
Who currently owns the editorial brands of Gamer Network?
As of May 2024, IGN Entertainment owns the editorial brands, although ReedPop retained the events business.
What recent changes occurred at VG247 and Eurogamer?
In Summer 2025, most VG247 staff were moved to Eurogamer. Subsequently, in February 2026, Eurogamer underwent layoffs that included its entire video team.