10 Misconceptions You Have About Being A Games Journalist
5. You Don't Need A Degree
Writing is often thought of as a skill known instinctively or not at all. That's not to say good writing and form can't be taught, but rather to suggest that most writers choose the trade due to innate talent and interest. This is especially true for games journalism, where the majority of contributors and even editors lack a relevant degree but still flock to the practice. Many games sites, especially the thousands of smaller guys, are passion projects to their very bones. Most operate on a volunteer basis, surviving on a stream of freelancers looking to cut their teeth. Maybe they strive to become the next big publication, maybe they just want to do games coverage their way and have some fun writing every few nights. Whatever the case, plenty of peoplewriters, video editors, web designers, and plenty moreget involved in gaming journalism without ever tossing a cap onto their university gymnasium or field.
A freelance games writer, you say? Typically battling his current RPG addiction and ceaseless perfectionism? A fan of horror but too big a sissy to play for more than a couple of hours? Spends far too much time on JRPGs and gets way too angry with card games?
Well that doesn't sound anything like me.