GB MAX unveiling After 29 years as a journalist covering games and tech, I’m both excited and humbled to share what’s next. At GamesBeat, we’ve always believed our first responsibility is to serve the community—by reporting what’s happening, asking the right questions, and offering clarity in a fast-moving industry. This commitment to the community is why we’ve decided to keep our core news—daily coverage, big stories, and important updates—free and open to all (with signups). It’s a promise we take seriously and one that’s not changing. But we also know many of you want more than just the headlines. You want context, access, and connections to help you make smarter decisions. That’s why we’re excited to reveal  GB MAX, a new network platform and meaningful membership designed specifically for professionals and decision-makers across gaming, tech, AI, and entertainment. For me, GB MAX represents a new way to connect with our community. Starting this week, I’ll be launching a personal newsletter called DeanBeat Backstage, where I’ll share deeper reflections and stories I’ve never had the chance to tell in a traditional news cycle. It’s something I’ve taken a lot of time and care to build, and I’m grateful to share it with you as part of this next chapter. My colleagues, Rachel Kaser and Mike Minotti, will also be launching their own newsletters—Inside the Industry and GamesBeat Briefing—bringing fresh perspectives on the industry’s biggest stories and the people behind them. This reflects our belief that the future of media is not just about content—it’s about connection, context, and community. Thank you to everyone who has supported our work and this new chapter. I'm always humbled to see the support for this new era. We’re building a powerful network for the industry and the community. After all, it’s not a community without real conversations.