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Game Journalist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mxdwn

Games Writer Intern (Unpaid)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

If you're looking to jumpstart a career in game journalism, mxdwn Games is a great place to begin. If interested, email your resume and a writing sample as well as a short introduction to yourself to ...

mxdwn

Games Writer Intern (Unpaid)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

If you're looking to jumpstart a career in game journalism, mxdwn Games is a great place to begin. If interested, email your resume and a writing sample as well as a short introduction to yourself to ...

mxdwn Entertainment

Game News Writer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Have a passion for journalism, writing, and video games. * Have a competent understanding of the English language including: grammar, flow, structure, and spelling. * Have adequate time to properly ...

Asuep

Fall intern, NEWSWELL Times of San Diego

San Diego, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

... journalists can focus on local news, and newsrooms can best serve their communities. NEWSWELL partners with Arizona State University, the nation's most innovative 11 years in a row, to offer game ...

Newswell

Fall intern, NEWSWELL Stockton

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20/hr

... journalists can focus on local news, and newsrooms can best serve their communities. NEWSWELL partners with Arizona State University, the nation's most innovative 11 years in a row, to offer game ...

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All JobsGame Journalist JobsGame Journalist Jobs in California

Game Journalist information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$56.7K

$63.7K

How much do game journalist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for game journalist in California is $56,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $60,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a game journalist?

Game journalists are professionals who research, write, and report on video games and the gaming industry. They review new game releases, interview developers, cover gaming events, and write opinion pieces to inform and entertain readers. Game journalists often work for magazines, websites, or as freelancers, and they play a key role in shaping public opinion about games and industry trends. Their work requires strong writing skills, a passion for gaming, and an understanding of the broader entertainment landscape.

What does a game journalist do?

A game journalist writes content about video games and the video game industry. In this career, you may work for gaming blogs, websites, or magazines, or you may freelance for companies across different mediums. Your duties can include creating different types of articles. You may review new video games, write articles that discuss industry news and trends, or interview game designers, players, and other industry figures. Game journalists can also write about esports and competitive gaming. Your responsibilities can focus on covering the industry as a whole or a specific genre, subject, or type of game.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game journalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Journalist, you need strong writing, research, and analytical skills, often supported by a background in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), SEO tools, and multimedia editing software is typically expected. Creativity, adaptability, and the ability to engage with diverse audiences are standout soft skills in this position. These skills ensure the production of insightful, timely, and compelling content that resonates with readers and builds credibility in the gaming industry.

What are common challenges faced by game journalists when covering new video game releases?

Game journalists often face tight deadlines and embargoes when reviewing new releases, which can limit the amount of time available to thoroughly play and analyze a game. Additionally, there is pressure to provide unbiased and insightful coverage amidst marketing hype and community expectations. Navigating early-access builds, incomplete features, and the need for fact-checking also add complexity. Collaboration with editors, PR contacts, and other writers is essential to ensure accurate, timely, and engaging content.

What is the difference between Game Journalist vs Game Reviewer?

AspectGame JournalistGame Reviewer
CredentialsWriting skills, industry knowledgeIn-depth game analysis, personal opinion
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, online platformsBlogs, YouTube channels, magazines
Industry UsageReporting, interviewing, news coverageEvaluating, rating, recommending games
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career pathsFinding game opinions, reviews

While both roles involve writing about video games, a Game Journalist covers industry news, interviews, and reports, whereas a Game Reviewer focuses on evaluating and rating individual games. The journalist provides broader industry insights, while reviewers offer personal opinions to guide consumers.

Do you need a degree to be a game journalist?

A degree is not strictly required to become a game journalist, but many employers prefer candidates with a background in journalism, communications, or related fields. Strong writing skills, a passion for gaming, and a portfolio of work are often more important than formal education in this role.
More about Game Journalist jobs

What are popular job titles related to Game Journalist jobs in California?

For Game Journalist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Game Journalist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Game Journalist jobs in California are:

Game Journalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Journalist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,747 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Games Writer Intern (Unpaid)

Mxdwn

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Company Description

MXDWN, all that matters in music.

Job Description

Games Writer Intern at mxdwn Games (Unpaid)

It's an exciting time to be involved in the world of videogames, which is exploding and poised to take its seat as the most powerful form of entertainment media. To that end, mxdwn Games, a sister site of music website mxdwn, is looking for young and eager writers to cover the goings-on in the realm of videogames. Writers will write and post daily articles on topics related to the most important happenings in gaming, from triple A developers like Activision and Electronic Arts to the Kickstarter-fueled Indie scene. If you're looking to jumpstart a career in game journalism, mxdwn Games is a great place to begin.

If interested, email your resume and a writing sample as well as a short introduction to yourself to [email protected]

Qualifications

Solid command of English and writing ability

Enthusiasm for videogaming

Ability to contribute one story per day

Additional Information
mxdwn logo

About mxdwn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

mxdwn.com is an established online entertainment magazine that focuses on news, original reviews, features, photography and interviews. We are a leader and innovator in providing dynamic entertainment content. Over the past 12 years, mxdwn has established itself as one of the most credible, reliable and forward-thinking entertainment publications in North America. What began as a music magazine founded by Editor in Chief Raymond Flotat has evolved into a valued resource not only for music but also for movies, video games, television and pop culture. Our readers rely on us to provide timely and relevant entertainment news, thoughtful reviews, up-to-the-minute event coverage, and to accurately report on all that matters in entertainment.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Social media

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