Julian Benson Takes the Helm as Editorial Director of Rock Paper Shotgun

Noted games journalist Julian Benson has been named Editorial Director of the renowned PC gaming website Rock Paper Shotgun, a subsidiary of IGN Entertainment, the parent company of GamesIndustry.biz. With over 13 years of experience in the UK games media landscape, Benson has held prominent roles, including Editor-in-Chief of TechRadar Gaming and senior positions at GAMINGBible, PCGamesN, and Kotaku UK. Most recently, he worked as a freelance writer, editor, and game design consultant, contributing to esteemed outlets such as The Guardian, GQ, Eurogamer, and Edge. Rock Paper Shotgun, launched in 2007, was a pioneering editorial website dedicated solely to PC gaming, quickly garnering a loyal following and establishing itself as a leading voice in the PC gaming community. The site became part of IGN Entertainment in 2023. Benson expressed his enthusiasm for joining Rock Paper Shotgun, stating, 'It's the publication that has most influenced my perspective and writing on videogames, and it was one of the first places I was published. I'm honored to join its experienced team in continuing the tradition of celebrating the unique aspects of PC gaming with its readers.' Benson's appointment follows a series of changes at IGN Entertainment aimed at enhancing its editorial brands and leadership team, including the promotion of Justin Davis to VP Editorial and Commerce and the appointment of Jon Hicks as Editorial Director of GamesIndustry.biz. Benson will report to Senior Editorial Director, International, Alex Simmons, who oversees the former Gamer Network brands within the global IGNE organization. Yael Prough, President of IGN Entertainment, welcomed Benson, saying, 'I'm thrilled to appoint an editorial leader with Julian's extensive experience to lead such a key brand. Rock Paper Shotgun maintains a distinctive and powerful voice in PC gaming, cherished by readers and game developers worldwide. Our continued investment in top talent is a crucial aspect of supporting and expanding the esteemed brands within the IGN Entertainment portfolio, leveraging the industry-leading expertise and influence of the IGNE team.' Benson has commenced his role immediately.