Games journalist and critic Alysia Judge has announced the launch of Mothership, an independent, worker-owned feminist video games website, set to debut in 2026. The publication aims to fill a gap in gaming coverage that specifically addresses gender and identity, providing a space for readers who feel underserved by mainstream outlets.
Judge, who has worked in games journalism since 2007, cites the current climate of industry layoffs, the rise of the manosphere, and the retreat from diversity initiatives as driving factors. She notes that while progress has been made—such as more diverse characters and development teams—backlash against this progress has intensified, making dedicated coverage essential.
Mothership will focus on reporting, investigations, reviews, criticism, and historical features, with an emphasis on the good and bad of modern game-making. It will rely on subscriber support rather than advertising, allowing for in-depth journalism without the pressure of high-volume content quotas. Judge envisions the site as a safe and motivating environment for reporters covering these often contentious topics.
Drawing on her experience at the Mary Sue, Kotaku, and Polygon, Judge believes there is a strong audience for such a publication. She aims to create a sustainable model that avoids the burnout and harassment she and her colleagues faced in the past. The site is expected to launch in 2026.
