The Best Video Game Magazines Ever, Ranked

As a lifelong gamer, I’ve had the pleasure of diving into the rich tapestry of video gaming magazines, and let me tell you, these three titans have left indelible marks on my gaming journey.

For passionate video gamers, magazines dedicated to games served as a hub for staying updated on the newest developments, including creators of their beloved titles, whispers of recent rumors, accessible cheat codes, and countless other tidbits. In earlier days, these game-focused periodicals were widely available, much like the gaming websites we have today.

Due to the internet’s presence, followers can now quickly access all the news they desire. Regrettably, this led to a decline in readership for one of the most prominent gaming magazines, Game Informer, causing its closure after 33 years. Although fans are saddened by its demise, here are some popular video game magazines that have been rated based on their popularity. These might bring back fond memories.

10 Tips & Tricks

Known For: Cheat Codes, Strategy Guides, And Reviews

The Best Video Game Magazines Ever, Ranked

Launched: 1995
Defunct: 2007
Country: United States
Publisher: Larry Flynt Publications

Each issue of this valuable gaming periodical included a treasure trove of suggestions, such as codes for numerous games. These codes weren’t merely useful for uncovering hidden items, but also for conquering difficult stages that players might have struggled with.

In this publication, all the shortcuts provided were beneficial and handy for gamers who opted out of extensive content. Additionally, it frequently included strategy manuals. Nevertheless, it lacked a specific section for video game reviews, making it not a primary source of gaming news in the community.

9 110% Gaming

Known For: Engaging Content, Tips, And Creative Features

The Best Video Game Magazines Ever, Ranked

Launched: 2014
Country: United Kingdom
Publisher: DC Thomson

This gaming publication offers a wealth of material suitable for both dedicated young gamers and those still new to the world of gaming, making it one of the top video game magazines for kids. With its appeal stretching across children aged 7-12, the magazine primarily caters to an audience of young readers eager to learn about games.

With a subscription, you’ll gain comprehensive understanding of trending video games, helping you elevate your gameplay to professional levels. Each issue brings expert advice, tactics, and captivating narratives from real gamers, plus entertaining posters and puzzles designed for children. Best of all, 110% Gaming is accessible in both print and digital formats, ensuring convenience for everyone.

8 Game Players

Known For: Exclusive Game Reviews And Insider Tips

Launched: 1989
Defunct: 1998
Country: United States
Publishers: GP Publications, Imagine Publishing

Game Players was a gaming magazine famed for its innovative approach to video game journalism. It showcased avant-garde designs, often using computer-generated images on their covers. The magazine’s one-of-a-kind collection of game reviews set it apart, ensuring readers were always well-informed and current.

The magazine also included comedic commentary, another feature that set it apart from the other options available on the market. Readers will laugh out loud while reading the pieces of content, all while also getting in-depth information on reviews and previews of the latest games.

7 Old School Gamer

Known For: Focus On Retro Gaming And Nostalgia

Launched: 2017
Country: United States
Publisher: BC Productions Inc.

For enthusiasts yearning to revisit the nostalgia of old-school gaming, this specialized magazine is sure to evoke fond memories! It delves into retro gaming and its associated culture, as well as contemporary games that embody a retro spirit. Thus, it bridges the gap between the past and present realms of gaming.

This Magazines for Classic Gamers offers updates on current gaming news and evaluations, making it an excellent resource for dedicated players. Moreover, enthusiasts can learn about traditional video games and consoles, making it perfect for avid gamers who appreciate the historical background and progression of the gaming world.

6 Game Developer

Known For: In-Depth Industry Insights And Trends

Launched: 1994
Defunct: 2013
Country: United States
Publisher: UBM Tech

Ideal for seasoned video game experts, this monthly publication keeps them informed about the newest innovations and technological strides in game creation. It encompasses a wide range of topics including coding, design, manufacturing, sound effects, artwork, and testing.

Every month, I’ll dive into the world of the newest gaming gear and cutting-edge tech solutions, straight from the minds of gaming masters and trailblazers in the field. Occasionally, you’ll find articles brimming with creative strategies and useful tips for designing captivating video games.

5 Retro Gamer

Known For: Nostalgic Coverage Of Classic Games And Consoles

Launched: 2004
Country: United States
Publishers: Live Publishing, Imagine Publishing, Future Publishing

For enthusiasts of retro gaming, Retro Gamer stands as a renowned global platform. Packed with frequent and detailed articles on vintage games, it offers a chance to delve into the intricacies and astonishing trivia surrounding timeless classics.

Monthly, top-tier gaming specialists invest their valuable time and energy in crafting insightful articles about games, aimed at educating both newcomers and veterans about the historical background of various games. Additionally, these articles feature advice from renowned gamers as well as game creators.

4 Nintendo Power

Known For: Tips, Reviews, And Exclusive Nintendo Content

Launched: 1988
Defunct: 2012
Country: United States
Publishers: Nintendo of America, Future U.S. Publishing

Initially called Nintendo Fun Club News, this publication gained widespread recognition upon its rebranding to Nintendo Power in 1988. Packed with captivating content focused on gaming on Nintendo systems, it boasted appealing posters, strategy guides, maps, and a wealth of tips, tricks, and other goodies. It even showcased screenshots of tutorials to help conquer NES challenges, offering more in-depth instruction than most textual guides could provide.

The magazine upgraded gamers’ ability and inspired the magazine to use the tagline “Get the power! NINTENDO POWER!”. It is one of the most significant video game magazines ever developed and has been appreciated by gamers globally.

3 Edge

Known For: Cutting-Edge Graphics, Innovative Reviews, And Industry Insights

Launched: 1993
Country: United Kingdom
Publisher: Future Publishing

Featuring distinctive visual design and an exceptional narrative approach, Edge is reminiscent of a premium photography journal. However, it caters specifically to the gaming community, providing them with up-to-date industry news, in-depth game reviews, and expert recommendations all under one roof.

This magazine features specialized segments focusing on the technical side of gaming, as well as highlighting popular games. To truly appreciate the caliber of this gaming magazine, enthusiasts are encouraged to delve into its vast collection, particularly the initial issues which significantly contributed to its influence within the gaming industry.

2 Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM)

Known For: Exclusive News And In-Depth Reviews

Launched: 1989
Defunct: 2009
Country: United States
Publishers: Sendai Publishing, Ziff Davis

Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) was a comprehensive magazine that catered to all types of gamers, featuring a no-nonsense layout and a user-friendly review system. Each issue was packed with top-notch content, such as reviews, previews, and in-depth articles, which significantly contributed to the magazine’s high quality. These elements were crucial in maintaining EGM’s reputation for excellence.

Gamers had an opportunity to explore game content tailored for their specific consoles, as well as uncover intriguing tidbits about games they might not be able to play. This top-tier cross-platform magazine boasted an impressive layout and design, and its engaging writing style captivated the interest of gaming enthusiasts.

1 PC Gamer

Known For: PC Gaming Reviews, In-Depth Features, And News

Launched: 1993
Countries: United Kingdom, United States
Publisher: Future Publishing

Every PC gamer will most probably be aware of this premier video gaming magazine, no matter where they are in the world. The magazine primarily features reviews and previews related to PC gaming but may also occasionally talk about games on other platforms such as Android, iOS, or console games.

All community updates and global news centered around PC gaming are part of its dedicated section. Every publication contains informative write-ups with high-quality pictures on a huge variety of topics that keep gamers engaged – this includes features on gaming culture and hardware as well. The best part is that it’s quite reasonably priced, with subscriptions available at different price points, and it also has a digital version.

2024-08-29 22:54