Join us.
Update 14.4.14: We are no longer accepting pitches. Sorry!
Five out of Ten publishes the best independent games writing in the world. We offer our writers a blank canvas: we want your essays, experiences, hopes and dreams. We are written by everyone, for anyone. We’ll never be the world’s biggest magazine, but we want to be the best – and fairest.
What we’re looking for
- Unique, imaginative and inspirational games criticism and cultural writing
- Meticulously researched, thought-provoking investigative journalism
- Voices from beyond the mainstream: we have a proud history of publishing work from women and LGBTQ-specialist writers.
What we’re not looking for
- Event coverage; interviews outwith the context of a wider feature
- Anything about these games (we love them, they’ve just been sufficiently covered in previous issues): Bioshock series, Minecraft, Deus Ex series, The Elder Scrolls series, Far Cry series, Unreal, Spec Ops: The Line.
- Anything similar to previously-published essays. You can see what has been published on our catalogue page.
What you need to know
- We are accepting pieces for publication in late 2014/early 2015.
- We do not accept unsolicited submissions or republications of previously published work.
- We must receive specific pitches. Do not send generic freelance work requests.
- You must provide a portfolio of work. Your writing need not have been professionally published elsewhere.
- We reply to everyone (as long as you follow these guidelines), but it takes time. Please don’t chase us with follow-up emails.
- We’re accepting submissions until we have enough. This will probably be for around a week, but pitch early to avoid disappointment.
Other stuff
- Please read this guide, which explains how to write a great pitch.
- Watch this video for an insight into the ethos of the magazine.
- It’s OK to ask us about something if you’re not sure!
- Be bold.
Pitch submissions are now closed.
