Valnet Acquires Polygon with Plans to Expand Gaming Coverage and Team

Valnet, a media company owning over 27 brands in gaming, entertainment, sports, and travel, has acquired Polygon, a prominent gaming news site formerly under Vox Media. This acquisition reflects Valnet’s strategic interest in expanding its gaming portfolio, which already includes GameRant, TheGamer, and others.

Rony Arzoumanian, Valnet’s head of mergers and acquisitions, described Polygon as a “triple-A gaming brand” with significant potential. Valnet aims to invest in Polygon’s operations, rebuild its editorial team, and recruit top-tier writers and editors to ensure the site delivers the deepest and most comprehensive gaming coverage.

The transition has involved staff changes, with about 10 existing Polygon employees moving to Valnet and former editor-in-chief Chris Plante departing. Matt Patches, previously Polygon’s executive editor, is currently leading the site. Valnet is focused on continuity and long-term growth, planning to build Polygon for the next five to ten years.

Valnet has committed to maintaining Polygon’s archives, avoiding the loss of valuable content seen in other media acquisitions. The company also ruled out the use of AI-generated stories, emphasizing quality and authenticity in its editorial approach.

Despite some criticism and staff departures during the acquisition, Valnet remains bullish on gaming journalism and is investing to elevate Polygon’s brand and content quality. The company’s approach highlights the evolving landscape of digital media ownership and the importance of strategic investment in content and talent.