Are you passionate about PC games and possess a critical eye for detail? Rock Paper Shotgun, a leading voice in PC gaming journalism and part of the renowned IGN Entertainment network, is seeking a talented and dedicated Reviews Editor to join our award-winning team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our reviews content, ensuring Rock Paper Shotgun remains the go-to destination for insightful and engaging PC game reviews.
Rock Paper Shotgun, a cornerstone of the Rock Paper And Shotgun approach to gaming news and reviews, is committed to providing our readers with the highest quality coverage. As Reviews Editor, you will be at the forefront of this mission, working collaboratively with staff writers, the Editorial Director, and a talented pool of freelancers to deliver exceptional reviews that inform, entertain, and resonate with our discerning audience.
About Rock Paper Shotgun and IGN Entertainment
Rock Paper Shotgun stands as a vital part of IGN Entertainment, a division of Ziff Davis, Inc., and one of the world’s largest gaming and entertainment media platforms. IGN Entertainment’s extensive network reaches over 490 million monthly users across 16 digital properties, engaging with millions of fans globally. Home to other esteemed brands like IGN, Eurogamer, and Digital Foundry, Rock Paper Shotgun benefits from a rich ecosystem while maintaining its unique and respected editorial voice. This role offers the chance to contribute to a platform with significant reach and influence within the gaming industry.
The Role: Reviews Editor – Championing Quality and Reach
As Reviews Editor, you will be instrumental in enhancing the quality, quantity, and reach of Rock Paper Shotgun’s reviews section. This is a multifaceted role that requires a blend of writing prowess, editorial judgment, strategic thinking, and organizational skills. You will not only contribute your own reviews but also guide the overall direction of our reviews coverage.
Your expertise will be crucial in selecting the most relevant games for review, defining editorial angles, and ensuring our content aligns with the distinctive rock paper and shotgun ethos. Managing freelance contributions and budgets will also fall under your purview, ensuring efficient resource allocation and a consistent flow of high-quality reviews.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with the Editor to define the reviews strategy, selecting target games and establishing editorial priorities.
- Manage the reviews production schedule, optimizing team time and ensuring timely and comprehensive reviews.
- Oversee the Guides Writer and manage the freelance budget, commissioning external writers as needed.
- Optimize reviews for search engines (SEO) to maximize visibility and readership, while maintaining clarity and user-friendliness.
- Contribute to developing SEO best practices within Rock Paper Shotgun and share expertise across the international network.
- Play and thoroughly analyze major video game releases across various genres, delivering accurate, insightful, and engaging reviews under deadline pressure.
- Edit reviews written by other staff and freelancers, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to editorial standards.
- Utilize our content management system (CMS) to prepare reviews and guide content for publication.
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Qualifications: What You’ll Bring to the Team
To excel in this role, you will be a highly skilled writer and editor with a deep passion for and understanding of PC games. You will possess a strong work ethic, excellent organizational skills, and a collaborative spirit.
Must-Have Qualifications:
- Exceptional writing style characterized by clarity, conciseness, and engaging tone, reflecting the rock paper and shotgun spirit.
- Proven ability to edit copy to the highest standards of accuracy under tight deadlines, with meticulous attention to detail.
- Extensive knowledge of video games across a broad spectrum of genres, with a focus on current high-profile releases.
- Solid practical understanding of video game design principles.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for collaborating within the Rock Paper Shotgun team and the wider IGN network.
- Strong work ethic, demonstrating determination, drive, and methodical organizational skills.
- Positive, team-oriented attitude, crucial for success in our collaborative environment.
- Genuine passion for video games and gaming culture, aligning with the core values of rock paper and shotgun.
Nice-to-Have Qualifications:
- Working knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) to enhance content visibility.
- Degree in Journalism, English, or a related media field, providing a strong foundation in communication and media principles.
- Familiarity with web publishing environments and content management systems.
- Experience in managing other staff or freelance writers, demonstrating leadership potential.
- Knowledge of the games industry and related sectors, with relevant contacts or a keen interest.
- Interest in technology, entertainment, and lifestyle sectors, broadening content perspective.
Work Environment: Join Our Team, Remotely or in London
Rock Paper Shotgun offers a flexible and supportive work environment. The standard work schedule is full-time, Monday to Friday, with no expectation for weekend or holiday work. Occasional travel to conferences or industry events may be required for content coverage, offering exciting opportunities to represent rock paper and shotgun in the wider gaming world.
The role primarily involves office and computer-based activities. For applicants based in or near London, there may be the option to work from our offices 2-3 days per week, fostering in-person collaboration. For those located elsewhere in the UK, this position is fully remote, offering flexibility and work-life balance.
Ziff Davis is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees and provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.
Ready to Shape the Future of PC Game Reviews at Rock Paper Shotgun?
If you are a passionate and experienced gaming journalist with a deep understanding of PC games and a drive to create exceptional reviews, we encourage you to apply. Join Rock Paper Shotgun and become a key contributor to one of the most respected editorial teams in the industry, shaping the rock paper and shotgun legacy for years to come.
