GameSpot Replies to Gerstmann Allegations

While one might file it under “company speak”, it’s fair to give GameSpot the mike after Jeff Gerstmann neither denied nor confirmed rumors on the reasons of his being fired earlier.

Due to legal constraints and the company policy of GameSpot parent CNET Networks, details of Gerstmann’s departure cannot be disclosed publicly. However, contrary to widespread and unproven reports, his exit was not a result of pressure from an advertiser.

“Neither CNET Networks nor GameSpot has ever allowed its advertising business to affect its editorial content,” said Greg Brannan, CNET Networks Entertainment’s vice president of programming. “The accusations in the media that it has done so are unsubstantiated and untrue. Jeff’s departure stemmed from internal reasons unrelated to any buyer of advertising on GameSpot.”

“Though he will be missed by his colleagues, Jeff’s leaving does not affect GameSpot’s core mission of delivering the most timely news, video content, in-depth previews, and unbiased reviews in games journalism,” said Ryan MacDonald, executive producer of GameSpot Live. “GameSpot is an institution, and its code of ethics and duty to its users remains unchanged.”

Meanwhile, according to the unreliable alexa.com (who do often give good estimates of growth in traffic, though), GameSpot is on an upward curve since the controversy started. That’s just the way it goes.