ign

IGN, originally Imagine Games Network, is an American online media brand focused on video games and entertainment. It operates IGN.com, a leading site for gaming news, reviews, previews, guides, and video content, with regional editions and a presence across platforms such as social media and video channels. The network publishes articles and produces video material covering gaming, film, television, and technology.

Founded in 1996 as Imagine Games Network, it grew into a major gaming media outlet and was renamed IGN in the early 2000s. Over the years it has changed ownership several times as part of broader media consolidations, and has operated as a subsidiary within larger corporate groups.

Content and features include news on new releases and industry events, in-depth reviews using a 0–10 rating scale, feature articles, lists and guides, and original video content such as reviews, discussions, and special programming. IGN also runs community features, including comments and forums, and maintains region-specific sites that tailor content to local audiences.

Business and reach: IGN generates revenue through online advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate links, and distributes content across its website, YouTube channel, podcasts, and other media. It serves a global audience with localized content and language variants, contributing to its prominence in gaming culture and entertainment journalism.

Impact and reception: As one of the most visited gaming destinations, IGN has significantly influenced industry coverage and consumer expectations. It is widely cited in gaming discourse, though it has faced scrutiny regarding editorial practices and perceived biases, as with other large media outlets.