Get ready for a gaming revolution! The A.V. Club Games is stepping into a bold new era, and trust me, you won’t want to miss this. I’m Garrett, the guy behind Paste Media’s games coverage since 2011—from Paste itself to Endless Mode, and now, here at The A.V. Club. If you’ve followed my journey so far, you know what’s coming: thoughtful, culturally rich game criticism that’s as accessible as it is deep. Think of it as a bridge between the hardcore gaming intelligentsia and casual players, cutting through the jargon to deliver insights that everyone can enjoy. But here’s where it gets exciting: we’re not just stopping at video games. From board games and tabletop RPGs to pinball, sports, anime, theme parks, and immersive entertainment—we’re covering the entire spectrum of play. And yes, I’m bringing along Associate Editor Elijah Gonzalez, our anime guru, and a dream team of top-tier games writers. Whether you’re a longtime fan from Paste or Endless Mode or a newcomer, this is the part most people miss: we’re not just reporting on games; we’re exploring how they shape—and are shaped by—our culture. Controversial take alert: Are games truly as culturally significant as film or music? Let’s debate that in the comments.
The A.V. Club is no stranger to this kind of bold, insightful coverage. With a legacy of culturally astute criticism, it’s the perfect home for our expanded vision. William Hughes will continue his stellar work with the Game Theory column, and let’s not forget John Teti’s The Gamelogical Society, which left an indelible mark on gaming discourse in the early 2010s. But here’s the real question: Can we push this tradition even further? I think so. Our goal is to elevate The A.V. Club’s games section to unprecedented heights while staying true to its roots. And let’s be honest—The A.V. Club’s comment section is legendary. Where else can you find such passionate, engaged readers? It’s not just a website; it’s a community, and I can’t wait to dive into conversations with all of you.
Games aren’t just a pastime—they’re a cultural force, as influential as movies, TV, or music. Anime, too, has become a global phenomenon. And this is the part most people miss: The A.V. Club is now your go-to destination for deeper, more frequent coverage of both. Starting today, we’re not just reporting on trends; we’re exploring how these mediums reflect and redefine our world. So, whether you’re a diehard gamer, an anime aficionado, or just curious, join us on this journey. Controversial question: Are games and anime the most important art forms of the 21st century? Let’s hear your thoughts below!
