Local pure players in Southern France aim to reinvigorate local journalism through innovative editorial strategies and participatory practices, but face economic constraints. Three players are profiled: Marsactu focuses on investigative journalism and has doubled revenue but still loses €100k annually; Carre d'info closed in 2013 after struggling to attract sufficient advertising or subscription revenue; and Ariègenews earns most revenue from municipal advertising and videos while maintaining close ties to authorities but has difficulties investing as revenue stagnates. Overall, while the players emphasize proximity and participation, their small audiences and reliance on public relations limit their economic viability.