Former VG247 Editors Launch Respec: A New Independent Voice in Games Media
The gaming industry is witnessing the birth of a new independent voice in media with the launch of Respec, a publication founded by the former editorial leadership of VG247. This move comes as a response to the shrinking landscape of independent games media and the recent wave of editorial layoffs at major publications.
Tom Orry, former editor-in-chief of VG247 and Eurogamer editorial director, and Alex Donaldson, former editor-at-large of VG247 and owner of RPG Site, are the driving forces behind this new venture. Their goal is to create a site that celebrates the best of video games while also being unafraid to deliver hard truths.
Orry, who also founded Videogamer, shares his vision for Respec: "We want Respec to be a site that stands out in an increasingly corporate-owned media landscape. We want to bring character and experience to our content, celebrating the positive aspects of video games while also being honest about the industry's challenges."
Donaldson, drawing from his experience with RPG Site, believes in the viability of independent games media. He says, "RPG Site has been running for 20 years, and it's a testament to the success of fully independent sites. We've done it, and it's shaped Respec's identity. We want to capture the fun and madness of VG247's heyday while maintaining the focus and structure that made RPG Site successful."
The gaming media landscape is undergoing significant changes. Data from Press Engine reveals a 25% decline in the global pool of game journalists over two years, with more than 1,200 journalists leaving their positions. This trend highlights the challenges faced by independent media outlets in an industry dominated by corporate ownership.
Respec's launch is a significant development in the gaming media space, offering a fresh and independent perspective. It promises to provide a unique blend of news, reviews, and features, catering to gamers who crave honest and character-driven content. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Respec aims to be a beacon for those seeking an alternative to the mainstream.
The future of Respec remains to be seen, but with Orry and Donaldson's expertise and passion, it is poised to make a significant impact on the gaming media landscape, offering a much-needed independent voice in an industry that often feels dominated by corporate interests.
