Walmart-Sponsored Gaming Site Restart Lays Off Editorial Staff
Restart, a gaming media website sponsored by Walmart and launched in late 2024, has reportedly laid off its entire editorial team. The news was announced by the site's former editor-in-chief.
Restart, a gaming media website launched in late 2024 and backed by Walmart, has ceased operations for its editorial staff. Brandy Berthelson, the site's former editor-in-chief, confirmed the layoffs in a social media post on Friday.
Multiple other former employees have also indicated their departure from the company, suggesting a complete termination of the editorial department. The exact number of affected employees has not been disclosed.
The website, operated by content marketing agency Moonrock, stated on its mission page that it was "powered" by Walmart. The site's model involved providing purchase links to Walmart for games mentioned, utilizing a partner tracking code.
Restart's operational model was designed to integrate affiliate marketing by linking to Walmart for game purchases, though the site stated it would not receive a commission from these sales. The broader implications for Walmart's content marketing strategy in the gaming sector remain unclear following this development.