# Polygon Sold to Valnet, Owner of GameRant, Resulting in Layoffs

## Polygon Sold to Valnet, Owner of GameRant, Resulting in Layoffs

Polygon, the gaming and entertainment website under Vox Media, has been acquired by Valnet, a digital media company that owns a portfolio of brands including Screen Rant, GameRant, and Android Police. The acquisition, announced earlier today, has resulted in a restructuring at Polygon, with some staff continuing under the new ownership while others have been laid off.

According to a press release from Valnet, the acquisition of Polygon aligns with their long-term growth strategy and will integrate Polygon into Valnet’s existing gaming portfolio. This portfolio includes prominent publications such as Game Rant, TheGamer, Fextralife, OpenCritic, DualShockers, and HardcoreGamer. Valnet touts their “proven operational excellence” and promises “focused investment and innovation” to elevate Polygon to new editorial heights.

Vox Media CEO Jim Bankoff stated that the sale would allow the company to focus on other growth areas within their portfolio. He also cited the “uncertain economic outlook” and changes in the gaming industry as contributing factors in the decision.

However, the acquisition has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from former Polygon staff members. Editor-in-chief Chris Plante confirmed his departure, stating, “I’m no longer with Polygon… If you’re hiring, please consider the many talented writers and editors now on the market. Every one of them deserves a spot on your staff.” Several other former Polygon staffers have taken to social media to announce their layoffs and express their disappointment.

This acquisition also raises questions about Valnet’s working environment. A recent report from *TheWrap* included a former contributor describing conditions at one of Valnet’s sites as “almost sweatshop-level,” raising concerns about the future of Polygon’s editorial integrity and the well-being of its staff under the new ownership. While Valnet promises investment and growth, the layoffs and past allegations leave the future of Polygon uncertain. The gaming community will be watching closely to see how the publication evolves under Valnet’s leadership.