Kotaku has appointed Rebekah Valentine as a Senior Reporter as the publication broadens its scope following a change in ownership

Kotaku, a well-regarded gaming news outlet, has named Rebekah Valentine as its new Senior Reporter. This is the first major recruitment by the company since French entity Keleops Media acquired Kotaku from G/O Media in July 2025. The acquisition, according to Keleops, has resulted in substantial growth for the site. Valentine, who was previously with IGN and GamesIndustry.biz, is one of many expected additions to the team.

Mylène Poncet, Managing Director for Kotaku and Engadget, shared with GamesIndustry.biz, "We've owned Kotaku for less than a year and are truly pleased with the current situation. The brand's trajectory is promising, readership is increasing, doubling since our acquisition, and we're now poised to recruit high-caliber professionals to elevate our game."

Interim Editor-in-Chief Ethan Gach emphasized Valentine's impressive credentials in business journalism and her focus on indie gaming communities like Blue Prince and Baby Steps. He noted the excitement of Valentine's role in developing new themes. "Original reporting should be central to Kotaku, attracting readers seeking more than just aspirations," Gach remarked. "Rebekah will be pivotal in unveiling the industry's secrets for our audience."

Valentine, expressing her enthusiasm to GamesIndustry.biz, stated, "I'm eager to refine my journalistic skills alongside some of the finest. While focusing on precise news delivery, I look forward to crafting longer investigative pieces. Kotaku's reputation for allowing varied and playful writing styles offers exciting prospects, including ventures into criticism and other forms of writing."

Gach praised the opportunity to expand, crediting Keleops' understanding of Kotaku's unique value and strategic investment approach as vital. "Private equity almost ended Kotaku," he reflected. "To be thriving in 2026 seems miraculous, though it's due to a faithful, skilled, and diligent team unwavering in its commitment post-G/O Media."

He further commented on the need for responsible use of investments. "Informed and entertained readers crave original reporting and in-depth analysis, which are crucial for the gaming sector. Any failure to uncover untold stories reflects poorly on an editorial mission, regardless of other successes," he noted.

"Rebekah's addition, alongside anticipated new hires, enhances our capacity to convert industry tips into comprehensive stories amid the hectic routine of online media. Contrary to the lone reporter stereotype, journalism is a collaborative effort that significantly surpasses individual inputs," Gach concluded.