PSP Fanboy now recruiting

Want to be part of the biggest Fanboy coalition in the Joystiq network? Good, because we're looking for some fresh faces. PS Fanboy is finally recruiting, and we'd like to see you join us. We're looking for PlayStation enthusiasts -- those that actually play games on the PSP (they really exist, trust us). We're looking for people with Blu-ray libraries, an appreciation of all things PixelJunk, and/or a pair of Metal Gear underpants. Most importantly, we're looking for capable writers that are interested in getting paid to write about games.

Please read all instructions before submitting your application. Incomplete applications will only be read after the release of Final Fantasy XIV -- because if you can't follow instructions now, there's nothing to make us think you'll be able to follow instructions if we contract you to write for us.

First off, what we're looking for:

• Bloggers willing to commit to writing at least 50 posts a month. (Not sure how much work 50 posts a month is? Take a look at an average-length post on this site. Now multiply that by 50.)
• Columnists willing to write weekly columns between 500 and 1000 words.

Anyone who's interested must have:

• A strong knowledge of the PlayStation brand, from the PS1 era onward. Also, you really need to own both a PS3 and PSP.
  
• A strong knowledge, and appreciation, of gaming in general. We may only write about PlayStation games, but we want to play with you on Xbox Live, and share Friend Codes with you. Just because we're called a "Fanboy" site doesn't mean we want to hire typical internet fanboys.
• Solid writing ability. Basic spelling and grammar are required -- and the ability to form words without any numbers in them a major plus. Insider tip: we're going to assume that the writing in your application is an example of the best writing you're capable of. Once we see a spelling mistake, grammatical error, or typo, we usually stop reading.
  
• Prolificacy! We want people who can commit to writing on a regular basis.

But there are a few technical requirements as well. Before you apply, be sure you:

• Possess a computer and a reliable Internet connection. If you're reading this, that's an important first step!
  
• Have the software and knowledge to create and manipulate photos and screenshots. (You'll need to be able to resize images, but you're welcome to do fancier stuff if you feel like it.)
  
• Know basic HTML. (Our CMS is all WYSIWYG, but sometimes a bit of additional knowledge helps.)
  
• Are eligible to work wherever you're writing from. We can, and often do, contract bloggers from outside the US. The only caveat is that people outside of the US must have a bank account and be able to accept payments by wire transfer.
  
• Are reachable outside of your game world -- via e-mail, IM, Skype, phone, etc.
  

Still think you're right for the job? Then send us an application to apply.psfanboy@gmail.com before the end of the day Friday (11:59 PM EST) including the following:

• Absolutely no attachments -- please include everything in the body of your message.
• Your full name and whether you're applying as a blogger or a columnist in the subject line. I.e. "John Doe -- blogger" or "John Doe -- columnist."
  
• Your city and state. (If outside of the US, include country as well.)
  
• Your contact information, including email address and any instant messenger addresses.
• Availability information -- when and how often you think you'll be able to post.
• An explanation of why you think you'd make a good Joystiq network writer.
  
• Some information about your gaming background, including games you've played in the past and games you're currently playing (on any platform). Please highlight previous journalism experience, if any.
• Do you have video editing skills? Do you love podcasting? Are you an artist? Please note any additional skills that may be helpful for the site.

For bloggers, also include:

• Three sample posts (at least one post must be dedicated to the PSP) in the style of a typical Joystiq/PS Fanboy post.

For columnists, also include:

• A proposed theme for your column.
  
• Ten sample topics you might explore. (if you can't think of ten sample topics, you might want to re-consider your theme.)
• We will contact you for a sample if selected.
  

Due to the number of applications we usually receive, we're afraid we cannot individually reply to each one. However, we hope to make a final decision before the end of the month.