How To Become a Gaming Journalist

Introduction.

The world of gaming is growing fast. With millions of players worldwide, it’s not just about fun anymore.

Gaming has become a massive industry filled with stories, reviews, and news to cover. If you love playing video games and enjoy writing, you might be wondering how to turn that passion into a job. That’s where gaming journalism comes in.

Gaming journalism isn’t just about playing the latest releases and sharing your opinion. It’s about informing, entertaining, and connecting with readers who care about the same things you do.

But how do you break into this industry? How do you go from being a gamer to becoming a trusted voice in the gaming community?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a gaming journalist—from the skills you need and where to start, to how to build your portfolio and land your first paid job.

Let’s jump right in.

What Is Gaming Journalism?

Gaming journalism involves writing about video games, the industry behind them, and the culture surrounding them. It can take different forms, such as:

Game Reviews: Evaluating a game’s graphics, gameplay, story, and overall experience.
News Reporting: Covering new game releases, industry announcements, and events like E3 or Gamescom.
Opinion Pieces: Sharing thoughts on trends, controversies, or personal experiences within gaming.
Interviews: Talking with game developers, designers, or even professional players to give readers insights.
Guides and Tutorials: Helping readers complete difficult game levels, find hidden items, or understand mechanics.

Gaming journalism isn’t just about knowing how to play. It’s about knowing how to communicate, research, and engage with readers in a meaningful way.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Gaming Journalist?

You don’t need a degree in journalism to start, but having the right skills makes a huge difference. Here’s what you should work on:

1. Writing Skills

This one is obvious, but it’s important. Good writing is clear, engaging, and easy to understand. You don’t need to be a novelist, but you should be able to write in a way that grabs attention and holds it.

How to Improve:

Practice writing regularly.
Read gaming articles from popular sites like IGN, Kotaku, and Polygon to see what works.
Ask friends or peers for feedback on your writing.

2. Research Skills

You need to be able to dig deep and find accurate information. This is especially important when reporting news or writing about complex topics like game development.

How to Improve:

Look up multiple sources for any story.
Verify facts before including them in your articles.
Stay up-to-date with industry news through reliable sources like GameSpot, The Verge, or PC Gamer.

3. Networking

The gaming industry is all about connections. Building relationships with other journalists, PR reps, and game developers can open doors.

How to Improve:

Attend gaming events, both online and in person.
Engage with other writers and industry professionals on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Discord.
Join communities for gaming journalists to exchange tips and opportunities.

4. Gaming Knowledge

You don’t need to be a pro at every game, but you should have a broad understanding of different genres, platforms, and gaming history.

How to Improve:

Play a variety of games, not just your favourites.
Learn about the history and evolution of gaming.
Stay informed about upcoming releases and trends.

How Do I Get Started as a Gaming Journalist?

Now that you know the skills you need, how do you get started? Here’s a step-by-step plan.

1. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel

One of the easiest ways to build your portfolio is by starting your blog or YouTube channel. This gives you a space to showcase your writing and opinions.

Tips:

Write game reviews, news summaries, or opinion pieces.
Focus on a niche if possible, like indie games or RPGs.
Post consistently to build a following.

2. Write for Free (At First)

It’s common to start by writing for free for smaller websites or blogs. This helps you gain experience, build your portfolio, and make connections.

Where to Look:

Join online communities like Reddit’s r/GameJournalism.
Reach out to indie gaming websites or fan blogs.
Submit guest posts to larger sites if they accept them.

3. Build a Portfolio

Your portfolio is your ticket to paid gigs. It shows potential employers or clients what you can do.

What to Include:

Your best writing samples.
A variety of articles (reviews, news, opinion pieces).
Links to any published work, even if it’s on your own blog.

4. Apply for Freelance Jobs

Once you have a few samples, you can start applying for freelance writing jobs. Many gaming websites hire freelancers to cover specific topics.

Where to Look:

Job boards like ProBlogger, Upwork, or Freelancer.
Gaming-specific sites like Hitmarker (which focuses on esports and gaming jobs).
Reach out directly to websites you’d like to write for.

5. Pitch Your Ideas

Don’t wait for job listings—pitch your own ideas to editors. A good pitch shows that you’ve thought about the audience and can offer something valuable.

How to Pitch:

Keep it short and clear.
Explain the article idea, why it’s relevant, and why you’re the right person to write it.
Follow up if you don’t hear back, but don’t spam them.

Challenges You Might Face (And How to Overcome Them)

Starting a career in gaming journalism isn’t always easy. Here are some common challenges and how to deal with them:

1. Low Pay (At First)

Entry-level writing gigs often don’t pay much. But as you gain experience, you can start charging more.

Solution: Focus on building a strong portfolio and gradually move to better-paying opportunities.

2. Tough Competition

Many people want to be gaming journalists, so the competition can be fierce.

Solution: Find a niche or unique angle that sets you apart. Specializing in a specific genre or platform can make you stand out.

3. Dealing with Criticism

Not everyone will agree with your opinions, and some readers can be harsh.

Solution: Develop a thick skin and learn from constructive feedback. Ignore trolls or unnecessary negativity.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a degree in journalism?

No, but it helps. More importantly, focus on building a portfolio and gaining experience.

Q: Can I make a full-time living as a gaming journalist?

Yes, but it may take time. Many start as freelancers before landing full-time roles.

Q: How do I find story ideas?

Stay updated on gaming news, follow social media trends, and listen to what the community is talking about.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a gaming journalist takes time, effort, and a lot of writing. But if you’re passionate about games and willing to put in the work, it’s a rewarding career that lets you share your love of gaming with the world.

What’s the first step you’re going to take toward becoming a gaming journalist?