After several years of growth and decline, Paste has reportedly shut down its dedicated video game coverage. This move follows a series of changes, including a merger with The AV Club, which absorbed its gaming segment.
Elijah Gonzalez, an associate editor at The AV Club, shared on Bluesky that he was laid off, marking the end of their gaming section. Freelance writer Diego Nicolás Argüello confirmed this closure, and former Paste games editor Garrett Martin expressed gratitude to the community of writers and readers he worked with.
In a statement to Kotaku, The AV Club explained that they had to eliminate three roles, including the staff that managed video game content. The smaller team couldn’t support a comprehensive games coverage anymore, although they plan to maintain some presence in the gaming space.
Garrett Martin, who edited Paste Games starting in 2011, helped many writers get their start. In 2025, Paste Games became a standalone site called Endless Mode. This site focused on diverse aspects of gaming, anime, and theme parks but was closed down later that year and integrated into The AV Club’s section.
This isn’t just a local issue. The media landscape, especially in gaming, is experiencing turmoil. For example, it’s been one year since Polygon was sold to Valnet, marking a notable shift in the industry. Many writers are mourning the loss of Paste Games, as it was a platform that championed emerging voices in an increasingly competitive space. A large number of writers credit Paste with kickstarting their careers, partly due to its supportive editorial culture.
Critical Distance, a site dedicated to preserving game writing, highlighted how Martin and Paste significantly shaped gaming criticism. Argüello reflected on his experience with Paste, noting how it inspired him to pursue freelance writing. His sentiment echoes widely among other writers who feel the loss of such an important platform for their craft.
The closure of Paste Games signifies a troubling trend for new journalists. Fewer opportunities mean less room for diverse voices and fresh perspectives. The hope is that, despite these challenges, new platforms will arise to fill the gap and continue supporting aspiring writers.
For more information on the current state of gaming media, visit sources like Kotaku, which offers comprehensive updates.
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