Giant Bomb Goes Independent

In a bold move that has energized its long-standing fanbase, Giant Bomb—the gaming site celebrated for its personality-driven content and irreverent style—has officially become an employee-owned and independent company. The announcement was made on May 10, 2025, during a live panel at PAX East, marking a new era for the 16-year-old brand.

From Corporate Ownership to Creative Freedom

Founded in 2008 by Jeff Gerstmann and Ryan Davis, Giant Bomb built a reputation for its honest, often humorous take on gaming culture. Over the years, the site changed hands multiple times, eventually being acquired by Fandom in October 2022.

While the acquisition initially seemed like a strategic fit, internal friction soon emerged. Under Fandom’s management, Giant Bomb faced increasing editorial restrictions, brand safety pressures and changes to content output that conflicted with the site's original values. The result was a growing divide between the creators and the corporation—leading to staff exits and a temporary pause in content production.

A Team-Driven Reboot

In the wake of those tensions, a group of long-time Giant Bomb personalities—Jeff Bakalar, Jeff Grubb, Dan Ryckert, Jan Ochoa, and Mike Minotti—took matters into their own hands. Spearheading a buyout, the team successfully re-established Giant Bomb as an independent, employee-owned company.

Speaking at PAX East, Bakalar and Grubb shared their commitment to regaining editorial freedom and refocusing on the core of what made the site beloved: authentic, community-driven content.

“We wanted Giant Bomb to be in the hands of the people who live and breathe it,” said Jeff Grubb during the panel. “This is our shot to make it something the audience can trust again.”

Subscription Model for Sustainability

To support its newfound independence, Giant Bomb has introduced a new subscription system, offering fans direct ways to support the site. Subscriptions are available at:

$9.99/month, or
$99.99/year

Subscribers gain benefits such as:

Ad-free podcast feeds
Exclusive Discord community access
Early behind-the-scenes content and perks

However, in a move that reflects their commitment to openness, most of the site’s content will remain free to all users, including videos, reviews, and written features.

Returning to Its Roots

With corporate oversight gone, Giant Bomb’s renewed mission is to bring back the unique editorial voice that once set it apart. That includes long-form podcasts, creative video series, spontaneous livestreams, and coverage driven by personality, not SEO charts.

The site’s new employee-ownership model also empowers staff to make decisions collectively, reducing the risk of outside influence and prioritizing creative integrity.

Reflecting a Wider Shift in Games Media

Giant Bomb’s move comes amid a growing trend in gaming journalism: creators reclaiming control. As media consolidation and algorithm-driven content shape the industry, more teams are turning to community-backed, independent platforms.

By becoming employee-owned, Giant Bomb joins outlets like Waypoint (formerly under Vice) and MinMax in championing sustainable, audience-first models.

A Message to the Fans

In a joint message posted to GiantBomb.com, the team thanked their fans for sticking with them through the highs and lows.

“You’ve supported us through every iteration of this site. Now we’re inviting you to help shape the next one.”

They closed with an invitation for readers to join the new Giant Bomb community and help keep independent gaming journalism alive.

Final Thoughts

With renewed autonomy, a passionate core team, and a loyal audience, Giant Bomb is poised for a comeback. In an era where media voices are increasingly dictated by profit and policy, their return to independence is not just a business move—it’s a statement.

For those who’ve followed the site's journey over the years, the message is clear: Giant Bomb is back, and it’s finally their own.

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