The Demise of Australia's Video Game Journalism: A Cautionary Tale

In 2006, a young writer's career took an unexpected turn when he was fired from his job at EB Games for a video stunt that, in hindsight, was ill-advised. Little did he know that this setback would eventually lead him to a successful career in video game journalism, working for renowned publications like Kotaku Australia, Lifehacker, and Gizmodo. However, the recent closure of these brands has left a gaping hole in the Australian media landscape, signaling a troubling trend for the future of video game journalism in the country.

Uncovering the Untold Story of Australia's Video Game Journalism Crisis

The Unexpected Dismissal and a Newfound Opportunity

In 2006, the writer's impulsive decision to film himself jumping over boxes and hip-thrusting at a stranger led to his dismissal from EB Games. This incident, though seemingly trivial at the time, would later serve as a catalyst for his journey into the world of video game journalism. Ten years after the incident, the writer landed a job at Kotaku Australia, where he found his true calling and helped shape the country's tech and gaming media landscape.

The Closure of Iconic Brands: A Devastating Blow

The recent announcement by Nine's Pedestrian Group to shutter Kotaku, Gizmodo, and Lifehacker has sent shockwaves through the Australian media industry. The closure of these three influential brands, along with the redundancies at Nine, Seven West Media, and NewsCorp, has left a significant void in the country's tech and gaming journalism scene. This event marks a tragic day for the industry, with lasting implications for the future of video game coverage in Australia.

The Paradox of Audience Demand and Lack of Support

Despite the overwhelming popularity of video games in Australia, with 81% of the population engaging in some form of gaming and a thriving industry worth .4 billion in 2023, the support for video game journalism has been severely lacking. Mainstream publications have largely neglected to employ dedicated video game journalists, leaving a void that independent websites and blogs have struggled to fill.

The Importance of Video Game Journalism in the Cultural Landscape

Video game journalism is not just about news and reviews; it encompasses a much broader spectrum of cultural, business, and societal implications. From exploring the mental and physical health aspects of gaming to delving into the challenges faced by the video game development industry, video game journalism plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of this rapidly evolving medium. The closure of Kotaku, Gizmodo, and Lifehacker represents a significant loss for the Australian public, who are now deprived of in-depth, well-researched coverage of this vital cultural phenomenon.

The Path Forward: Opportunities for Revitalization

The demise of Australia's video game journalism scene presents both challenges and opportunities. Major media outlets could seize this moment to recognize the untapped potential and invest in dedicated video game coverage, tapping into the sizable audience and the growing cultural significance of the industry. Additionally, government agencies that have supported the video game development industry could extend their efforts to nurture independent games journalism, ensuring a balanced and thriving ecosystem.The writer's personal experience of finding a second chance in the industry after his initial setback serves as a glimmer of hope. The power of the reader, through direct funding and support for journalist-owned websites, could also play a pivotal role in reviving the video game journalism landscape in Australia. With the right combination of industry recognition, government support, and reader engagement, the future of video game journalism in the country may yet be salvaged from the ashes of this tragic event.