Giant Bomb Reclaims Independence: Staff Buys Back Gaming Website from Fandom
In a surprising turn of events, Giant Bomb, the beloved gaming website and podcast, has been bought back by its long-time staff members, Jeff Bakalar and Jeff Grubb, from Fandom. This announcement, made during PAX East, marks a significant victory for independent games journalism and a return to the site's roots.
Just weeks after facing uncertainty and content pauses under Fandom's ownership, Giant Bomb is now back in the hands of its creators. According to a joint statement by Bakalar and Grubb, this transition was made possible by the "speedy efforts of Fandom and our mutual agreement on what's best for fans and creators."
"Giant Bomb is now owned by the people who make Giant Bomb," the statement emphasized. "The future of Giant Bomb is now in the hands of our supporting community, who have always had our backs no matter what."
Fandom, in its own statement, framed the sale as a strategic decision: "Fandom has made the strategic decision to transition Giant Bomb back to its independent roots... We're confident Giant Bomb is in good hands and its legacy will live on with Jeff and Jeff."
Specific financial details of the deal remain undisclosed. However, the move is seen as a positive development for games journalism, especially given recent closures and consolidations of other gaming websites under larger media conglomerates. The return to independent ownership offers hope for more authentic and community-driven coverage of the gaming industry.
The site had paused content production during the negotiation period, but plans are in motion to resume "as quickly as possible." To support its independent future, Giant Bomb is introducing new subscription options. While the exact details are yet to be revealed, it's likely to include a mix of free content, subscriber-only articles, and merchandise promos. The new subscription increase from $5 to $10, as "that money now goes to us," according to Grubb.
This buyback follows a period of turmoil for Giant Bomb, including reported clashes between the staff and Fandom over content guidelines. An episode of the Giant Bombcast was even briefly removed after the hosts mocked brand guidelines imposed by Fandom, highlighting the differences in vision. Staff members, like Dan Ryckert, had also expressed concerns about the site's direction under Fandom's ownership.
What does this new chapter hold for Giant Bomb? Will independent ownership allow them to recapture the unique voice and community they were known for? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
