In the ever-evolving landscape of video games media, a duo of seasoned professionals is betting on a retro-style, multi-format website to thrive in 2026. Tom Orry and Alex Donaldson, with their combined 40 years of industry experience, are launching Respec, a lean and passionate venture that promises to punch above its weight. This article delves into their vision, the challenges they face, and the unique approach they're taking to navigate the current media climate.
A Nostalgic Return to the Golden Age of Games Media
The video games industry and its media coverage have undergone significant changes over the past two decades. The once-thriving print magazines and numerous websites have seen a steep decline, with the pandemic offering a temporary respite that quickly faded. Today, a few dominant players dominate the market, while video influencers reign supreme in terms of influence and marketing. Amidst this shift, Respec emerges as a nostalgic venture, aiming to capture the essence of the early 2000s with its classic old-school style and a lean team.
Orry and Donaldson's journey in games media is impressive. Orry, a former founder of Videogamer, brings a wealth of experience, while Donaldson, the founder of RPG Site, shares a platform and staff with Respec. Their collective expertise and understanding of the industry's challenges are evident in their belief that many websites have been mismanaged financially, creating an opportunity for a fresh approach.
A Lean Team, A Clear Voice, and A Passionate Mission
Respec's core focus is on old-school text-based games coverage, complemented by a weekly podcast and a YouTube channel featuring eclectic Let's Plays. Orry emphasizes the importance of a distinct voice and a convivial atmosphere, drawing inspiration from the clubs and fansites of the past. He envisions a site that engages with its readers, providing articles that resonate with their interests rather than solely chasing online traction.
The British identity of Respec is another crucial aspect. In a media space dominated by US ownership, Orry aims to create something unapologetically British, paying homage to the magazines they adored in their youth. He believes that this local flavor can travel well, resonating with a global audience.
Navigating the Financial Landscape
Respec's financial model is a blend of advertising and reader support. While the majority of content will be free, paid subscriptions via Patreon will offer exclusive content, including weekly podcasts and special features. Donaldson acknowledges the challenges of building a business solely on direct user subscriptions but remains optimistic about the potential for growth. He highlights the independence of Respec, which may attract readers who value alignment between the site's goals and the owners' expectations.
The site's initial funding comes from the profits of RPG Site owner Double Black, providing a financial cushion until Respec becomes profitable. Donaldson's experience in extracting maximum advertising revenue from RPG Site will be instrumental in Respec's financial strategy. He is bullish about the role-playing genre's prospects in 2027, anticipating strong performance on RPG Site and potential growth in Respec's earning potential.
Building Credibility and a Sustainable Business
Donaldson emphasizes the importance of building respect, reputation, and trust within the audience. He views this as a long-term investment, focusing on 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 establish Respec as a sustainable business, gradually reducing its reliance on its sibling site, RPG Site.
Orry and Donaldson's vision is to create a manageable, independent brand that people feel invested in and trust. They aim to avoid the pitfalls of large, corporate-owned media, where constant growth and search engine optimization can sometimes overshadow the quality of content. Instead, they strive for a small, agile operation that is successful on its own terms.
In conclusion, Respec represents a nostalgic return to the golden age of games media, with a lean team, a clear voice, and a passionate mission. By navigating the financial landscape with a blend of advertising and reader support, and by building credibility and a sustainable business, Orry and Donaldson are betting on a retro-style website to thrive in 2026. Their journey is a testament to the power of passion, independence, and a unique voice in the ever-changing world of games media.
