“I don’t pretend to claim that every story on Unwinnable illuminates or enlightens. Perhaps none of them truly do. But that doesn’t stop us from trying. I’d rather publish stories that have the potential to be great, that only a handful of people read, than pander to people with the basest gruel, advertising dollars be damned.”
Stu Horvath, ‘On Unwinnable’
When I was developing the concept of Five out of Ten, I wanted to make something as cool as Unwinnable – a magazine with personality, but also something that provided a blank canvas for the writer. I wanted to publish amazing pieces like this, this, this, this and of course this. It’s probably not a coincidence that we’ve featured many of the same writers.
When Brendan Keogh came to visit earlier this year, we inevitably talked about games writing, and I remember him telling me how much he loved writing for Unwinnable, and would even write for it if he didn’t get paid. Then today, I read this and started writing what you’re reading now.
Outlets like Unwinnable are important. It’s a wonderful place, the kind of publication that is both inspiring and aspirational. Whenever they launched a Kickstarter for a regular magazine – maybe inspiration works both ways? – I immediately put my name down for it. I couldn’t wait to get a copy in my hands! And while the current total on the Kickstarter is impressive, it’s nowhere near enough. To tell you the truth, it breaks my heart a little.
As readers of Five out of Ten, or even a Twitter follower who accidentally followed this link, you presumably care about quality writing. Caring is important, but so is your financial support, and although we thrive on your love and support, unfortunately we can’t live off it. The only way to fight the dull, SEO-optimised, impersonal, algorithmic and often intelligence-insulting mess of writing being pumped into your Facebook feed every damn day is to take a stand. Support great writing. Support it with your wallet, and your heart.
The name of the publication may be Unwinnable, but this is a battle that is winnable, and worth fighting.
Please consider supporting our friends at Unwinnable by backing their Kickstarter campaign.
