I love games and movies. I love them so much that I spend countless hours writing and talking about them. That love is the primary reason this site exists, but that love didn’t inspire me to build this site or start The Perfectly Sane Show. A small site named GiantBomb did, and as we learned today, a large part of that site is no longer with us. Ryan Davis, co-founder of GiantBomb and host of the Bombcast, died on July 3rd. The cause of death has not yet been reported.
Like many fans, I didn’t know Ryan personally, but listening to him week in and week out on the Bombcast, it certainly felt like I did. There was a warmth and kindness to his voice that invited his listeners into his life, even if it was just for a few hours each week. His videos offered an even bigger glimpse into his personal space, showing someone that loved what he was doing.
As a fan, I think what he did best was make us laugh. Sure, he could provide expert commentary based on his years of experience in the industry (and valuable insight it always was), but first and foremost he always was able to find the lighter side of things. His voice was something I looked forward to every week because I knew when I heard it that the crew was together. and I was in for a good time. His booming laugh was infectious. It’s something every podcast host strives for, but Ryan was an effortless master.
Games press is weaker because of his loss, but for as big a loss as Ryan is to the industry, it is inconsequential when paired up against the loss his friends and family have suffered. There are no words that can make it better, but I hope knowing how much he was appreciated and how much he will be missed at least brings them a little comfort.
Goodbye, Ryan. You won’t be forgotten.