Tangent Retro Gaming Pod
E67 - The Rise and Fall of THQ: From Industry Giant to Bankruptcy
January 6th, 2026
THQ was once one of the biggest names in video games, dominating the late ’90s and 2000s with iconic franchises like WWE SmackDown!, Saints Row, Destroy All Humans!, Darksiders, and countless licensed hits. But just as fast as THQ rose to the top, it came crashing down.
In this episode, we dive deep into the incredible rise of THQ, how smart licensing deals and bold ideas turned it into a powerhouse, and what ultimately led to its shocking bankruptcy in 2012. From risky investments and overspending to the changing gaming landscape, this is the full story of how one of gaming’s most recognizable publishers lost it all.
Whether you grew up playing THQ classics or you’re curious how major gaming companies can fail, this is a fascinating look at ambition, success, and the brutal reality of the video game industry.
🎮 What was your favorite THQ game?
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