I just like everyone else on GB, I am totally stunned to hear of Ryan's passing. I've taken the news with great sadness. So I just want to express my emotions.

I started listening to Ryan, Jeff, Alex, Brad, & later down the road Vinny, back in their Gamespot days. Maybe 2002 or 2003. I was an instant fan of those guys. Listened to every podcast they did or video that was put up on Gamespot. Always entertaining and funny. I had become a real hardcore gamer around that time, and their was no better show around. Fast forward to when Jeff and Ryan left Gamespot.

Enter Giant Bomb. I was so happy they were getting back together to do a new site. I've been a member since day one pretty much. I've spent hours every week on GB, listening to podcasts, watching quick looks, "Video Things", editing wikis, etc. Just loved what they did here on GB. Something different and fresh, that was built off of their personalities. Then add Brad, Alex, & Vinny and the place was starting to look like Gamespot, but only better.

I'm also 34. I live with severe anxiety disorders, depression, I have OCDs, many phobias, and the worst, agoraphobia. It's very seldom I'm able to leave home. Most would find my life pretty boring and dull. I don't go anywhere because of my condition, nor am I a very social person because of these problems. This maybe the 1st post I've ever created here on GB. All of this has happened to me in the pass 10 years or so. But no matter how depressed or feeling sorry for myself, I've had my games. They have kept me from slipping all together. Giant Bomb has been an extension of that. Something I look forward to checking out every day. A podcast to listen to each week and just forget about all the things I'm up against.

I've shed tears over the unfortunate news today. Ryan hosted at least 3 hours of my life every week, for quite a number of years now. Giant Bomb will never be the same without Ryan. You were the loveable and laughable ringleader of this crazy place. But it has been an awesome place that I've thoroughly enjoyed. I will continue to enjoy each and everyday. Glad to know Ryan was apart of my life even if he didn't. Thanks for all the quick looks. Thanks for all the podcasts. Thanks for all the info you relayed from the gaming world. Thanks for helping create the greatest gaming website. Thanks for just being you man.

My sympathy goes out to Ryan's family & friends, the GB crew, and all the fans around the world.

And last I want to say...Ryan, job well done sir!

Sincerely,

Poltergeist13

(originally posted in the forums, thought it belonged as my 1st blog entry)