Today, we bid a fond farewell to one of our brightest guides writers, Hayden Hefford, as they embark on a new chapter in their life. After joining us in the autumn of 2021, Hayden quickly established themselves as a talented and dedicated writer in the world of games journalism. While we are saddened by their departure, we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for Hayden as they pursue their studies at university.
From the moment Hayden joined our team, it was evident that they had a genuine love for games. They eagerly dove into titles like Minecraft, Back 4 Blood, and Battlefield 2042, exploring every aspect of the gaming experience. Their versatility and ability to swiftly become an expert in a wide range of games never failed to impress us. Whether it was delving into the intricacies of Call of Duty: Vanguard or immersing themselves in the fantastical worlds of Tunic and Elden Ring, Hayden’s enthusiasm shone through in their writing.
Hayden’s relentless pursuit of improvement was one of their defining qualities as a writer. It was evident in their early days when they approached Alice Bee and myself, seeking feedback on a piece they had written about Project Zomboid. Their determination to hone their craft and produce the best possible work was truly inspiring. I still vividly recall being captivated by the finished article and feeling compelled to applaud Hayden’s talent and dedication.
Hayden’s ability to combine their knowledge of game guides with their unique writing style resulted in some truly remarkable features. Their personal accounts of the heartbreaking aftermath of Elden Ring’s Mimic Tear Ash nerf and the disastrous pre-season one patch of Diablo 4 showcased their ability to delve deep into the emotional experiences of gaming. Additionally, their contributions to themed feature weeks, such as the compilation of games that make your friend the monster for Halloween and the exploration of Ikenfell for Magic Week, demonstrated their versatility and creativity as a writer.
A Diverse Portfolio
Not content with just guides and features, Hayden quickly embraced the challenge of writing game reviews. From Sniper Elite 5 to As Dusk Falls, they fearlessly tackled a wide range of titles, providing insightful and balanced assessments. Notably, their review of Lil’ Gator Game earned the prestigious Bestest Best award, a testament to Hayden’s discerning eye for quality and craftsmanship.
A Defining Moment
Among all of Hayden’s accomplishments, one piece stands out as particularly memorable. Their interview feature on the making of As Dusk Falls not only contained an unforgettable headline but also marked their first major interview and studio visit. Undertaking such an endeavor is no small feat for a writer new to the gaming industry, but Hayden rose to the occasion admirably. Their ability to engage with developers and capture the essence of the creative process was a testament to their talent and potential.
A Bright Future
Although we will miss Hayden greatly, we have no doubt that they have a promising future ahead of them. The dedication, passion, and drive they exhibited during their time with us are sure to propel them to new heights in their academic and professional pursuits. As they embark on their university adventures, we extend our heartfelt wishes for success and happiness. Please join us in bidding them farewell, saying goodbye, and sending them off with warm wishes for their studies.
A Final Note
As we conclude, it is important to note that Hayden’s departure does not warrant changes in our best Star Wars games list. Their ranking of TIE Fighter remains pure and unaffected, a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft. Farewell, Hayden, and may the Force be with you on your new journey.
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