In the ever-evolving landscape of video games media, a duo of seasoned professionals is betting on a retro-style approach to stand out. Tom Orry and Alex Donaldson, armed with a combined 40 years of industry experience, are launching Respec, a website that harkens back to the classic, old-school multi-format video games websites of the early 2000s. This bold move comes at a time when the games industry and its media coverage are facing significant challenges, with a shift towards a few dominant players and the rise of video influencers.
Orry and Donaldson argue that there's a missed opportunity in the current market. They believe that many websites have been mismanaged financially, and there's a niche for a lean, passionate team dedicated to covering what they love, rather than what they feel obligated to cover. This is a refreshing take, as it challenges the notion that size and reach are the only ways to succeed in media.
Respec's core focus is on old-school text-based games coverage, a nod to the traditional print magazines and early websites that Orry and Donaldson fondly remember. They aim to create a convivial, club-like atmosphere, where the voice is distinctly local and British, a refreshing contrast to the increasingly US-dominated media space. This local flavor is a strategic move, as Orry notes that this tone has proven successful in various contexts.
The business model is a mix of advertising and reader revenue. While the site will be primarily funded by ads, it will also offer paid subscriptions via Patreon, providing exclusive content and a sense of community. Donaldson acknowledges the challenge of building a direct user subscription model, but he's confident that the site's independence and the founders' alignment with the audience's interests will be a draw.
Orry and Donaldson's experience in the industry is a significant advantage. Orry's founding of Videogamer and Donaldson's management of RPG Site have equipped them with the skills to navigate the media landscape. They understand the importance of a strong foundation and a clear vision, and they're confident that Respec can build a sustainable business around its unique voice and audience.
The key to Respec's success, according to Donaldson, lies in building respect, reputation, and trust. They aim to create a site that is less reliant on search and more focused on providing value to its readers. This includes measuring success through nebulous metrics like mood in comments and social media engagement, as well as concrete metrics like bounce rate and dwell time. The goal is to create a site that is both engaging and sustainable.
In a world where consolidation and corporate ownership are prevalent, Orry and Donaldson's vision for Respec is a breath of fresh air. They want to create something new and manageable, a brand that people feel invested in and trust. By keeping it independent, they believe they can achieve success on their own terms, and that's a compelling prospect in the games media industry.
