In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming media, a new venture emerges with a bold vision: Respec, a website that aims to capture the essence of classic old-school style multi-format video games journalism. Founded by two seasoned media veterans, Tom Orry and Alex Donaldson, Respec is set to make a splash in 2026, offering a refreshing take on the gaming news scene. But what makes this venture truly intriguing is the duo's belief in the power of a lean, passionate team dedicated to the art of gaming journalism.
A Return to the Glory Days
In an era where the gaming industry is dominated by a few major players and the media landscape is increasingly controlled by a handful of behemoths, Respec stands out as a refreshing change. With a combined 40 years of experience in games media, Orry and Donaldson are no strangers to the industry. They've witnessed the rise and fall of numerous gaming publications, from the print magazines that once dominated the shelves to the online websites that now rule the digital realm. But they believe there's still a place for a classic old-school style multi-format video games website, and Respec is their answer.
"A lot of websites have been chronically mismanaged on the financial side," Orry notes. "We think this kind of website, run on a tight budget and with the support of readers, can very much still exist in the year 2026." This sentiment reflects a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the gaming media industry, where the pressure to generate revenue often overshadows the passion for the craft. Respec, they believe, can offer a solution by focusing on what they care about, rather than what they feel obliged to cover.
A Lean Team, A Clear Voice
Respec's core is old-school text-based games coverage, supported by a weekly podcast and a YouTube channel. "Text is for the work, and video will be for the playful, fun, silly hangout stuff," Orry explains. This approach is deliberate, as they aim to create a distinct voice and a convivial feel. "The best video game magazines felt like clubs and the early websites/fansites felt like clubs," Orry adds. "We will talk to and with our readers, engage with them, and provide the kind of articles they enjoy rather than what we think will gain the most traction online."
The team's passion for gaming is evident in their choice of format. "We want to make something that is totally unapologetically British, in keeping with the tradition of the magazines we loved growing up," Orry says. This local flavor, they believe, will set them apart in a media space increasingly squeezed by US ownership. "That might sound provincial, but we also know from many other examples both inside and outside games that this sort of tone travels well."
Reader Revenues and Independence
Respec will be primarily advertising-funded, with the bulk of its content being free to read. Paid subscriptions via Patreon will offer exclusive weekly podcasts and occasional features. While building a business on direct user subscriptions can be challenging, Donaldson is optimistic about the potential. "We're bullish about 2027 as a particularly strong year for the role-playing genre," he says. "Strong performance on RPG Site will unlock more investment, as will growth in Respec’s earning potential."
The site's independence is a key factor in its success. "Corporate-owned media, especially in the specialist sector in the UK, has struggled to get substantial financial support from readers," Orry notes. "Why support the corporation when that same entity is laying people off? Respec is entirely independent with the owners working on the site. Our goals are aligned, our expectations are reasonable, and we don’t need constant growth."
A New and Manageable Venture
Respec's goal is not to build to the size of the established games sites, but to create something new and manageable. "We love games media and want to give people something they can enjoy and support," Orry says. "Ultimately, the goal is to build a brand that people feel invested in and trust - and to keep it independent."
Donaldson adds, "We've experienced life inside bigger machines, and though it has its benefits, one thing my experience has gradually bequeathed me is an understanding that a small, fast moving ship can be wildly successful on its own terms - and more fun to work on to boot."
As Respec embarks on its journey, it brings a fresh perspective to the gaming media scene. With a lean team, a clear voice, and a passion for gaming, it is poised to make a significant impact. The question remains: can it succeed in a landscape dominated by behemoths? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Respec is a venture worth watching.
