IGN hit with layoffs, Ziff Davis shuts down 1UP, GameSpy, and UGO

Earlier this month Ziff Davis, a subsidiary of j2 Global, Inc., acquired IGN Entertainment and its properties, which included 1UP, GameSpy, and UGO. In a shocking announcement today, Ziff Davis confirmed layoffs of these recently acquired properties in an effort to "Simplify and Focus."

According to an internal memo from Ziff Davis CEO Vivek Shah (via Polygon), "Our goal is to do fewer things and to do them exceptionally well. In that vein, we want to direct all of our energy and work behind our two flagship brands: IGN and AskMen."

As a result, IGN properties 1UP.com, UGO.com, and GameSpy.com will be "winding down." Additionally, Ziff is currently looking for parties interested in acquiring IPL, IGN's eSports network. "IGN's role going forward will be to broadcast and cover a variety of eSports events," the memo explained.

On a more personal note, I'm saddened to see 1UP closing its doors. I've been a longtime reader and fan of their work; I've got the utmost respect for everyone at that website. And for everyone else affected by these layoffs, GameZone wishes you all land on your feet quickly and find new jobs in this great industry.

If I've learned one thing since I've been in the industry, it's that during times like these we need to stick together and really help each other out as a community. These sites may have technically been competitors, but the bond and compassion I've seen from the gaming industry is extremely heartwarming.

With that, I'm proud to announce that GameZone.com is actively looking for writers. If anyone is interested in writing for us, or would like to recommend one of the fine folks at 1UP, GameSpy, and UGO give me a holler on Twitter, @Matt_GZ. Or you can email me directly at mliebl@gamezone.com. GameZone has some big changes going on this year and we'd love for you to be a part of it.