The entire world has already Dugg it, and thousands have seen it on YouTube, so it might sound like I’m a little late to the party, but I just wanted to congratulate Ryan O’Donnell and gang at Area5.tv for putting together the first episode of CO-OP, from the ashes of The 1UP Show.

Admittedly, I tuned out of The 1UP Show months ago because I was growing tired of the talking heads at 1UP. But the first episode of CO-OP, undoubtedly limited (but subconsciously benefited) by budget, gave me exactly what I want out of a show about videogames – passionate and intelligent conversation. It was a welcomed change from the fluff and ego which permeated the subtext of The 1UP Show, so I hope Area5 continues paving their own road creatively going forward.

The graphics, the editing, the music and the direction, which bled from every frame in that video, elevated the episode to a professional level of quality not seen from the majority of internet video productions. But what is most commendable is that technically those guys didn’t drop a beat from The 1UP Show, even without the financial backing from a company like Ziff Davis. In other words, these guys put together this show with their own equipment, from their own homes. That statement really makes it evident the level of talent the Area5 staff has, and exemplifies just how much of a missed opportunity this was for UGO, and Ziff Davis before them.

So thanks for bouncing back in a big way, boys. Here’s to a long and successful career!