Polygon Sold to Valnet, Majority Staff Laid Off

Polygon, a major gaming and entertainment website founded in 2012 under Vox Media, has been sold to Valnet, a media company that owns several gaming publications such as GameRant and ScreenRant. The sale has resulted in significant layoffs, with many longtime staff members, including the former editor-in-chief and senior writers, announcing their departures publicly. While some employees will remain with Polygon under its new ownership, the majority have reportedly lost their jobs, leaving many experienced journalists and editors seeking new opportunities. The layoffs have prompted an outpouring of support and calls for hiring affected staff across the gaming and media industries. Valnet stated that the acquisition aligns with its strategy to strengthen its gaming portfolio, but the transition has been marked by concerns about labor conditions and the abrupt impact on Polygon's team. Vox Media cited broader economic uncertainty and shifts in the gaming industry as reasons for the sale.