We Deserve Better From the Lazy Gaming Media

Something struck a nerve with me this week—and I’m sure many of you will relate. I came across articles from major outlets like IGN, GameSpot, VG247, The Gamer, Duel Shockers, Kotaku and more that quoted industry analysts suggesting that the way to "save the games industry" is to raise prices. These analysts, who likely don’t even play video games, seem all too eager to weigh in on what’s best for an industry they only observe from the outside. Their go-to solution for everything? Make video games more expensive.

Honestly, I’m fed up with this narrative. Every time these analysts open their mouths, it’s to push for higher prices. Why is that the default argument? Why are we never hearing about lowering prices?

Here’s A Sample Argument You Won’t Hear Gaming Blogs Make (But Should)

Video games weren’t always $60 or $70. Adjusted for inflation, games in the 1990s often cost the equivalent of $100 or more today. Back then, gaming was more niche. But as prices became more accessible, the audience expanded exponentially. Lower prices brought in more players, created thriving communities, and ultimately grew the industry to the juggernaut it is today. Why aren’t there think pieces arguing that reducing prices could save the industry—or better yet, enhance it?

Raising Prices Can’t Always Be the Answer

The problem is that raising prices alienates a significant portion of the audience. Gaming is no longer a luxury for a select few; it’s a mainstream hobby enjoyed by millions. Hiking prices risks excluding those who can’t afford to keep up. Sure, there’s a market for premium-priced games, but the beauty of this industry has always been its ability to cater to everyone, from blockbuster AAA titles to indie gems. Higher prices mean fewer people get to enjoy that experience.

And let’s not forget, the gaming industry is already highly profitable. Microtransactions, season passes, deluxe editions, and DLC, these all supplement revenue streams beyond the initial purchase. Companies continue to find more ways to monetize their games well beyond the sticker price, often to the frustration of players.

Trickle-Down Economics DOES NOT Work

And let’s be honest about what’s happening with games like Grand Theft Auto. The argument for giving companies like Rockstar more money is nothing more than trickle-down economics at its worst. And we all know trickle-down economics doesn’t work. Rich companies and individuals don’t reinvest their wealth into the community—they hoard it. Giving more money to the top of the pyramid won’t result in better games, fairer practices, or a stronger industry. It just means more yachts and bigger bonuses for executives while players are left paying the bill.

So why the constant push for even higher upfront costs?

The Lazy Gaming Media is Failing Gamers

And here is why I am frustrated: we deserve better from the gaming media. These copy/paste gaming blogs are nothing but echo chambers that amplify a one-sided perspective. It’s irresponsible, unbalanced, and, frankly, lazy journalism. By giving a platform to these analysts without questioning their motives or exploring alternative views, these gaming blogs perpetuate a narrative that higher prices are inevitable and necessary. Where are the journalists challenging this idea? Where are the articles exploring how lowering prices could expand the market or foster goodwill within gaming communities? These stories aren’t being written, and that’s a disservice to the audience.

It’s also unprofessional. Good journalism should present multiple viewpoints, especially on a topic as impactful as video game pricing. Instead, we’re fed the same tired argument over and over again. This lack of balance fails to inform readers and undermines the credibility of gaming journalism as a whole. It’s as if these outlets are more interested in echoing industry talking points than in serving the players who make gaming possible.

Let’s not forget that it’s lazy, too. Rehashing statements from analysts without investigating the broader implications or historical context is the path of least resistance. But gaming deserves better. Players deserve better. If media outlets took the time to dig deeper, they might uncover stories of how lower prices could drive innovation, inspire creativity, and make gaming a more inclusive and welcoming space.

It’s frustrating to see these analysts act as though raising prices is the only solution. Where are the articles arguing that lowering prices could attract an even broader audience? Where are the studies showing how affordable gaming could lead to long-term growth? They’re not being published because these experts are too focused on short-term gains and don’t understand the intrinsic value of gaming communities and player goodwill.

We Don’t Need Price Hikes, We Just Need Better Games Journalism

Gaming isn’t just a product; it’s an experience, an art form, and a way of life for many of us. It’s time to push back against the go-to narrative that the only way to "save" the industry is to make it less accessible. Lowering prices, creating fair monetization models, and fostering inclusivity can do more for gaming than any price hike ever could.

And the Gamer Media should be the ones to make this argument. They need to wake up, stop feeding ChatGPT biased one-sided articles to hit a daily quota, and put some real effort into presenting a balanced take.

Let’s start having these conversations. Let’s demand gaming industry CEOs value players over profits AND a Gamer media call them on it when they don’t. In the end, if there isn’t some sort of change, gamers will end up paying more than just price hikes, we’ll lose our voice and that’s even more valuable.

Sound off below and let me know what you think!