Common questions about Kotaku

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When did Kotaku launch and who was the initial lead writer?

Kotaku launched in October 2004 with Matthew Gallant serving as the initial lead writer. Brian Crecente joined the project one month after the launch to rescue the failing site.

Who purchased Kotaku in 2016 and what was the resulting company name?

Univision Communications purchased Kotaku in August 2016 when it acquired Gawker Media. The site became part of the Gizmodo Media Group under the Fusion Media Group division before Great Hill Partners renamed the entity G/O Media in April 2019.

When did Kotaku UK and Kotaku Australia close and why?

Kotaku UK closed on the 9th of September 2020 and Kotaku Australia shut down in July 2024. These closures were part of cost-cutting efforts by third-party publisher Pedestrian Group.

Why was Kotaku blacklisted by Sony in 2007?

Sony temporarily blacklisted Kotaku in 2007 after the site published a story about rumored upcoming features on the PlayStation 3. The company cut off access to press materials and events in response to the report.

What happened to Kotaku in July 2025 regarding ownership?

Keleops Group completed its acquisition of Kotaku in July 2025. CEO Jean-Guillaume Kleis stated the company would keep the entire staff and had no plans to make major changes to the content.