This post has not been edited by the GamesBeat staff. Opinions by GamesBeat community writers do not necessarily reflect those of the staff.
For my pressing issue assignment, I was given the task of creating a how-to guide to getting a site covering video games up and running. While it was a bit frustrating at times, I came to the understanding that sometimes explaining the how of something can be a bit more difficult than stumbling down the path, making it up as you go. Nevertheless, I sincerely hope that this serves as a valuable asset to anyone looking to start their unique video game website and to those, I wish them the best of luck.
Starting a website, let alone one covering video games, is no easy task; if you believe that it’s nothing but free games, catered press events and easy living with a large paycheck, I ask you stop reading now. A snappy, interesting name could distinguish your site from the hundreds of others online, but without attention-grabbing content and continuously endeavoring to reach potential readers, it will be significantly harder than you might think. Thanks to the accessibility of the internet, the market of covering electronic games has become oversaturated, and major sites like Joystiq, Gamepro, Edge, EGM and Kotaku make it difficult for start-ups. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t be a part of it too. Just know, despite the simplicity that goes with registering a domain name, that creating a site is definitely not a case of, “if you build it, they will come.”
Nuts and Bolts
In choosing an interface, many swear by WordPress, however after dealing with it for years I developed a preference for Google’s Blogger, which feels easier to utilize. Ease of use definitely comes in handy when last minute editing while half-asleep. Those uncertain and wanting to sample interfaces or simply get their feet wet should set up a free blog via Blogger, WordPress or Tumblr. Then, set a work schedule to prove to yourself that this is genuinely a viable pursuit of time. If it does, then the next move is to take the plunge and purchase a domain.
You’ve decided on an interface, so you’ll need to come up with an awesome name. Got it? Good. Registering a domain seems difficult, but that couldn’t be further from the truth: registering through GoDaddy, Google or one of several providers can cost as little as five dollars a year, depending on how hard you shop. When shopping around, you’ll want to look at services provided, potential routine downtime and tech support in the event something goes wrong. Once you’ve found the provider that fits you best, it’s time to start setting up and beginning to create content.
Content
While it might seem like posting slews of press releases as daily news is all there is to it when generating a constant flow of information, unique content is far better in creating an audience. Realistically, if readers can get all the information you’ve posted somewhere else and easier, what good are you? By offering exclusive content readers haven’t seen before, you’re standing out as a place they’ll want to visit and return to because of your unique take on video games. If you’re looking to spur debate, top 10 lists, are always capable of accomplishing the task. Imaginative articles and features conveying something your audience didn’t know before is paramount to developing a following and finding your creative voice.
Most importantly – I cannot stress the following enough – cite sources using links somewhere in a post. Seemingly obvious, but your credibility depends on it. As Jim Sterling says, “The difference between journalists and bloggers is that bloggers cite their sources.” So save yourself the trouble and refuse to compromise on this, or the people you’re reaching out to will have a hard time finding you credible, making any attempt at garnering an audience all the more difficult.
Reaching Your Audience
Social networking has become increasingly integrated with news sharing into the modus operandi of gaming outlets, principally centering on Facebook and Twitter, making it easier than ever for content to flow unobstructed. Facebook is an admirable start to increasing your outreach to anyone who might have a budding awareness of video games; posting links in your profile is a fantastic way to direct people to your work and spreading word of mouth. Eventually, starting a group for your site, linked to your latest news and articles, can help to collate all of your content into one location for painless viewing. Moreover, Twitter’s brief, succinct posts are an excellent way to bring your content to the community in an instant. By seamlessly offering your content it becomes easier to bridge gaps with other writers, developers and enthusiasts who will slowly but surely begin visiting your site with regularity. However, this also encompasses your willingness to provide a steady stream of creative content, since nobody enjoys seeing an outdated website. But by properly using either of these to expand your network of contacts, you should have little difficulty developing a following online.
Obstacles aside, even if your blog grows slowly, it is forever an archive of your work and can serve as an online portfolio when applying to new writing positions. That is if you maintain a level of ethics. You have to try harder than yesterday to offer interesting content on top of the news and there is no such thing as waking up and being a success. Expecting the world to come to you on a silver platter is a sense of broken entitlement and such an expectation will only lead to disappointment. On the other hand, don’t get disheartened if it seems like your site isn’t getting the attention you feel it deserves. Nothing seems more demoralizing that coming home from a long day to discover that there are no comments on an article you put time and effort towards or worse, to discover it’s been trolled by jaded, monotonous basement-dwelling keyboard monkeys. Comments do not equate to views. Take this with a grain of salt, reaffirm that this is what you truly want to do and push on. Ultimately, if you’ve got the grit and determination to put in the long hours necessary, this is without a doubt a passion where you will garner a significant amount of satisfaction from your hard work.