In the wake of significant layoffs at Polygon following its acquisition by Valnet, two former staff writers are setting the gaming world ablaze with an innovative new venture. Ryan Gilliam and Jeffrey Parkin, both seasoned guides writers, have unveiled Big Friendly Guide—a dedicated platform for gaming enthusiasts, accessible at bigfriendly.guide.

Gilliam expressed his passion for creating guides by saying, "It feels amazing to help someone enjoy something that’s dear to both of us." After parting ways with Polygon, he was determined to continue making a positive impact in the gaming community.

Parkin chimed in, highlighting the duo's skill set: "We excel at helping people master video games." Every guide they produce not only enhances the gaming experience but also tackles quests like snagging that elusive giant horse in Zelda.

What sets Big Friendly Guide apart is its commitment to accessibility—most content will be freely available, ensuring that anyone can benefit from their expertise. To further engage their audience, Gilliam and Parkin plan to launch a Patreon, giving fans the chance to support their work while gaining access to a dedicated Discord channel.

Additionally, fans can look forward to a weekly podcast, available to all, paired with a monthly exclusive for subscribers where the duo shares insights on their upcoming projects.

While the site will initially feature ads, its primary goal remains building a loyal community that trusts Gilliam and Parkin’s recommendations. The duo is eager to interact with their audience, encouraging suggestions for future guides.

Big Friendly Guide joins a lineup of recent projects from former Polygon staff, including the Post Games podcast by ex-editor-in-chief Chris Plante and the PV Guide newsletter by former curation editor Pete Volk, as indie gaming publications continue to flourish.

Gilliam and Parkin approach this new venture with humility, with Parkin stating, "We’re not aiming to build a brand for sale or chase riches. Our true desire is to keep doing what we love." Ready to embark on this new adventure, they invite gamers to join the journey!