Walmart-backed gaming publication lays off editorial team

August 13, 2026 - 07:54

Restart, the gaming news outlet backed by Walmart, has let go of its full editorial team. Brandy Berthelson, who served as the site's editor-in-chief until last Friday, confirmed the news on social media, stating that the "entire editorial team" was laid off that day.

The move comes as a surprise to many in the gaming media space, as Restart had positioned itself as a fresh voice covering industry news, reviews, and culture. The outlet launched with significant financial support from Walmart, which raised questions about editorial independence from the start, though the site maintained it operated with full autonomy.

Berthelson did not provide further details on the reasons behind the layoffs or how many people were affected. She also did not say whether the site would continue publishing with freelance writers or if it would shut down entirely. Walmart has not issued a public statement regarding the future of the publication.

The layoffs add to a rough stretch for gaming journalism, which has seen multiple outlets downsize or close entirely over the past year. Restart's abrupt decision leaves its remaining staff without jobs and its audience without a clear sense of what comes next.