For gamers around the world, IGN is a powerhouse of video game news, reviews, and culture. But what does it take to be one of its editors? In this article, we explore a typical day in the life of an IGN editor, uncovering the responsibilities, challenges, and the unbridled passion for gaming that fuels their work.
Morning Rituals: Coffee, News, and Planning
6:30 AM: Rise and Shine
The day starts early for an IGN editor. Many kick off their morning with a strong cup of coffee, accompanied by a quick scan of the day’s gaming news. Outlet aggregator sites, social media platforms, and gaming forums serve as initial resources to keep tabs on what’s trending. This is crucial since breaking news can significantly impact the day’s workload.
8:00 AM: Daily Standup Meeting
After a few hours of preparation, the editorial team convenes for a daily standup meeting. Each member shares updates on their current projects, outlines preferences for assignments, and discusses major news stories that need coverage. This collaborative atmosphere fosters idea generation and provides a clear overview of what’s on the editorial slate.
Mid-Morning: Research and Writing
9:00 AM: Research Dive
Following the meeting, the editor dives into research mode. Whether they’re writing a review for the latest AAA title or an investigative piece on industry trends, research is the backbone of their work. They scour developer interviews, older articles, and gaming forums to gather diverse perspectives and the most accurate insights.
11:00 AM: Writing and Editing
With ample notes and a clear angle, it’s time to write. Editors at IGN pride themselves on clarity, accuracy, and entertainment value. Drafting engaging reviews often involves playing through hours of gameplay, followed by analysis and critique. This immersion is essential to convey genuine insight and passion to readers.
Feedback is also key; they engage with colleagues for peer reviews. Constructive criticism helps refine articles, ensuring they meet IGN’s high standards before publication.
Lunch Break: Networking and Gaming
1:00 PM: Lunch Break
Lunch isn’t just about fueling up; it’s also a networking opportunity. Many editors use this time to meet with game developers, publicists, or fellow editors to discuss upcoming titles, industry trends, and potential collaborations. With the gaming industry being highly interconnected, these relationships often yield exciting exclusive opportunities for future coverage.
Afternoon: Multimedia and Live Events
2:00 PM: Multimedia Content Creation
After lunch, the editor shifts gears into multimedia content. IGN isn’t just about written content; video and podcasts play a vital role. Editors collaborate with video producers to create engaging content pieces, which can involve everything from gameplay impressions to roundtable discussions about gaming news. This portion of the job often attracts those with a flair for storytelling through visuals and audio.
4:00 PM: Covering Live Events
As game release dates approach or major expos like E3 roll around, editors become heavily involved in live events. This may include covering presentations, participating in live streams, or even conducting interviews with developers. Attend these events requires quick thinking, adaptability, and the talent to convey excitement and information succinctly.
Evening: Review and Feedback
6:00 PM: Final Edits and Publication
As the day winds down, the editor dedicates final hours to review tasks. Articles are polished, images and videos uploaded, and SEO optimization is applied to ensure high visibility. Engaging headlines are crafted, and articles are scheduled for publication, often timed to maximize reader engagement.
8:00 PM: Responding to the Community
Final touches may include interacting with IGN’s vibrant community. Editors monitor the comments section, engage on social media, and respond to reader queries and feedback. They understand the importance of building a relationship with their audience and embracing their opinions, providing a sense of belonging in the gaming community.
Closing Thoughts: Passion Above All
As the clock ticks past 8 PM, the editors log off, exhausted yet fulfilled. The day might have been long, but their tools—passion, creativity, and a love for gaming—keep them energized. Every article published, every video created, and every community interaction are manifestations of a deeper commitment to gaming culture.
This glimpse into a day in the life of an IGN editor reveals not just the mechanics of their job, but the heart that drives it. With an ever-evolving landscape of video games and technology, these editors stand at the forefront, bridging the gap between players and the cultures surrounding them. Through early mornings, rigorous reviews, and late-night community engagements, they exemplify dedication to an industry that never sleeps.
