I mean, if we're talking fantasy here, I'll shoot out some ideas. Here's my pie in the sky, top 5.
1. Justin Davis - IGN
Sure, there are more flamboyant IGNers like Brian Altano (Whom I love) and Max Scoville (Whom I love on the Comedy Button but not so much in other things), but Justin always comes off as a very smart and witty guy, who knows a lot about the industry and is pretty funny, but in a way that isn't "try-hard" like some of the other guys. I think his laid back personality would mesh well with Brad, and him and Jeff could have some pretty deep retro game discussions. He's also a father and could bring a different perspective to the crew. Only worry is that he might be a little too laid back, but I think in an upbeat environment he would thrive. I think he's a pretty high-up guy over there, so it would probably take a lot to coax him away, but hey this is a fantasy draft.
2. Adam Sessler - Formerly of X-Play, Rev3Games, TheoryHead
Sure, he's still got some stuff going on, but he's not the name that he once was. A move back into the mainstream gaming industry for an established site built on persona, would surely create a lot of buzz and bring some excitement. He's a smart guy, who can be a bit cynical at times, but definitely has a goofy dan-esque side. Listen to his guest episodes on the Comedy Button if you don't believe me. I would love to see him on UPF and on the Bombcast even if his time was delegated solely to those purposes. Friend of the site, friend of the guys, so this isn't completely unrealistic either.
3. Matthew Patrick - "MatPat" from GameTheory
Here's a wildcard. Jeff has mentioned multiple times that they need someone with video experience, and is known for their personality. A popular Twitch or YouTuber could easily fill this spot. And the GameTheory channel has recently added a new guy to the cast, taking a lot of the workload off of MatPat. I was going back and forth between MatPat and Markiplier, but ultimately MatPat seems far more knowledgeable about games in general and seems much more of the type to fit in and mesh with a bunch of guys in the gaming industry. He's young, only 30, and could bring a fresh attitude that some of the other older people on this list might not. It may even create a partnership between Giant Bomb and the GameTheory channel which would just be fantastic. Plus the dude is crazy smart.
4. Morgan Webb - Formerly of X-Play
Who would see this coming? Morgan used to be one of the faces of the gaming industry and since has scarcely been seen. Jeff has been on X-play before so they already are acquainted with each other and she would bring a fresh perspective to the crew. Plus, the return of Morgan Webb would surely make some buzz around the internet and bring traffic to the site.
5. Greg Miller - KindaFunny, formerly of IGN
Ok, before you snicker, this obviously would never happen. This is just a dream pick. Aside from Jeff, Greg is likely the most well known and established gaming journalist alive at the moment, and his larger than life persona should easily fill the void left by Dan. He's a friend of the site, friend of the guys, rival of Dr. TrackSuit, and another seat for the PowerBombcast. This is a dream pairing in almost every way. So, why isn't it higher on the list? Well, I honestly think Greg might be TOO charismatic, and he could clash with Jeff at times. I'm not sure how they would mesh in the long term.
Honorable Mentions
Markiplier- YouTube Personality
I don't think he would be a full time fit at giant bomb, more of just like an "Indie Trending" section of the site where he shows off new weird indie or horror games. Plus, Giant Bomb has basically zero affection for the horror genre aside from Jason, so I'd love someone who is right in the middle of the scene. His voice is perfect for podcasting and he may overtake Brad as the sultriest voice. He seems to be a smart guy with some cool outlook at the industry. Another one that would never happen, but just a fun thought.
Kevin Perreira - G4, Attack of the Show, various shows and sites
This dude has a ton of shit going on and is always busy, but I love this idea. Jeff hosted AOTS for a week, so hey, at least a connection is there. The guy is always a fascinating watch, seems to really love games, and is no stranger to the industry.
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