Walmart-backed gaming site Restart cuts all editorial staff
Restart, the gaming website launched in late 2024 and sponsored by Walmart, has dismissed its entire editorial team, according to former editor Brandy Berthelson.
Restart, a gaming news platform that debuted in late 2024 with Walmart’s sponsorship, announced the termination of its entire editorial staff. The announcement came from Brandy Berthelson, the site’s former editor-in-chief, who posted the information on Friday and said she could not discuss the specifics. Restart is managed by the content-marketing firm Moonrock, while its public statements claim editorial independence and note that Walmart receives no commission from product links.
A laid-off employee disclosed that a severance agreement was signed with Moonrock. Although the website is still accessible, it is unclear whether Walmart and Moonrock will continue to operate it, and both entities have not replied to requests for comment.
Why it matters
The layoffs highlight challenges of sponsored media ventures and raise questions about the sustainability of Walmart’s entry into gaming journalism.
In this story