Are Video Games Finally Growing Up? Exploring Chris Plante’s “Post Games” Podcast
Isn’t it strange that an industry as massive as gaming often feels targeted toward a very specific demographic? From the frenetic energy of many gaming podcasts to the content itself, the focus often seems to be on a younger audience. However, Chris Plante, former editor-in-chief of Polygon, is challenging this norm with his new podcast, “Post Games.” This podcast seeks to offer a more mature and thoughtful perspective on the world of video games, exploring complex themes and catering to an older demographic often overlooked by mainstream gaming media. This article will delve into the unique approach of “Post Games” and why it signifies a potential shift in the gaming media landscape.
Catering to the “Grown-Up Gamer”: Filling a Void in Gaming Media
Plante’s motivation behind “Post Games” stems from a perceived gap in the market. As he stated in an interview with The Verge, “Practically everything in games media targets young people.” He argues that many existing podcasts are geared towards individuals under 30 with ample time to consume lengthy content. This leaves a significant portion of the gaming population, specifically those over 35, underserved. According to the Entertainment Software Association, over half of American gamers are older than 35, demonstrating a substantial market with “very different interests and expectations.” Plante’s approach taps into this underserved market.
The NPR Model: A Slower, More Cerebral Approach to Gaming
“Post Games” distinguishes itself from typical gaming media through its deliberate pacing and focus on in-depth analysis. Plante models the podcast after the format of an NPR show, emphasizing tightly-edited segments and thoughtful conversations. This departure from the high-energy, often hyperbolic style of many gaming podcasts allows for a more nuanced exploration of complex themes. For instance, a recent episode featured an interview with Kaitlin Tremblay, a developer working on “Ambrosia Sky,” a game about death. The conversation explored how video games can be a powerful medium for understanding mortality. This introspective tone is a hallmark of “Post Games.”
Exploring Complex Themes: How Video Games Help Us Understand Death
One of the key differentiators of “Post Games” is its willingness to tackle challenging and thought-provoking topics often avoided by mainstream gaming media. As highlighted in the introduction, the episode discussing how video games can help players understand death showcases this commitment. Games like “What Remains of Edith Finch,” “Gris,” and even aspects of narrative-driven RPGs can be powerful tools for exploring grief, loss, and the human condition.
- Interactivity: The interactive nature of games allows players to actively engage with these themes in a way that passive media like film or television cannot.
- Empathy: By embodying characters facing difficult circumstances, players can develop a deeper sense of empathy and understanding.
- Safe Space for Exploration: Video games provide a safe space to explore complex emotions and ideas without real-world consequences.
These factors contribute to the unique potential of video games as a medium for exploring difficult subjects like death, a potential that “Post Games” actively investigates.
The Business of Independent Gaming Media: A Sustainable Model?
Plante’s move to create “Post Games” mirrors a broader trend of game journalists venturing into independent ventures. Sites like Aftermath, founded by former Kotaku writers, and Patrick Klepek’s Crossplay Substack, are examples of journalists seeking greater autonomy and connecting directly with their audience. This shift is driven by several factors:
- Layoffs and Restructuring: Traditional gaming publications have faced numerous layoffs and restructuring, prompting journalists to seek alternative career paths.
- Desire for Independence: Independent platforms offer greater creative freedom and control over content.
- Direct Audience Connection: Platforms like Patreon and Substack allow creators to connect directly with their audience and build a sustainable business model.
Patreon as a Funding Source: Building a Community Around “Post Games”
Plante relies on Patreon to fund “Post Games,” offering ad-free episodes, bonus segments, and exclusive video content to paying subscribers. This model fosters a direct relationship with listeners, allowing them to support the podcast and contribute to its growth. As Plante noted, reaching 1,000 paid subscribers would be enough to cover his family’s health insurance, highlighting the viability of this approach.
Advantages of Patreon Model:
- Predictable Revenue: Subscription-based models provide a more predictable revenue stream compared to advertising.
- Direct Audience Support: Demonstrates a strong connection with listeners who value the content.
- Community Building: Encourages a sense of community among subscribers through exclusive content and interactions.
The Challenge to Mainstream Media: Serving the Underserved
Plante believes that mainstream publications often overlook the needs and interests of older gamers, focusing instead on younger demographics deemed more attractive to advertisers. He argues that this reliance on scale prevents these publications from adequately serving the “humongous and growing audience” of older gamers. “Post Games” directly challenges this approach by catering to this underserved market and providing a more thoughtful and nuanced perspective on the world of video games.
The Future of “Post Games”: A 10-Year Vision
Plante’s vision for “Post Games” is simple: to continue creating high-quality content for a dedicated audience. His long-term goal is to still be producing the podcast in 10 years, suggesting a commitment to building a sustainable and lasting independent media platform. This vision speaks to the growing trend of niche, independent media outlets that cater to specific audiences and prioritize quality over scale.
Conclusion: A New Era for Gaming Media?
Chris Plante’s “Post Games” represents a potentially significant shift in the gaming media landscape. By targeting an older demographic, embracing a more thoughtful and nuanced approach, and utilizing a direct-to-audience funding model, Plante is demonstrating the viability of independent media in the gaming world. The success of “Post Games” suggests that there is a growing demand for more mature and insightful content that caters to the evolving interests of gamers. The future of gaming media may very well lie in the hands of independent creators who are willing to challenge the status quo and prioritize the needs of their audience.
What do you think? Is there a need for more mature gaming content? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Sources & Further Reading:
Original article at www.theverge.com
