Gaming Magazines (and are they still a thing?)

I grew up reading gaming magazines like random game guides (for example, The Ultimate Guide to Minecraft) and Official PlayStation Magazine. They were a big part of my childhood. Today, gaming magazines still exist, though many have shifted to digital. EDGE, PC Gamer, Game Informer, and Famitsu (Japan) are still publishing.

Minecraft Official Magazine

Official PlayStation Magazine

EDGE

PC Gamer

Game Informer

Famitsu

I analysed a few recent issues online to see how they’ve changed. The covers are often dominated by key art from a major upcoming game. The typography is bold and graphic, using fonts that match the game’s branding. Inside, there are reviews, previews, interviews with developers, and features about game culture.

What’s interesting is that gaming magazines have a very visual audience. Readers want to see screenshots, concept art, and character designs. I could easily create a gaming‑focused magazine using screenshots I capture myself from games I play, and writing my own reviews.

I also love character design. The art of creating original characters. Many gaming magazines include concept art sections. I could draw my own character designs and present them as a feature. That would combine my interest in art with gaming culture.

Another angle is indie games. The indie scene is huge, and many indie games have strong visual styles and dedicated fan communities. I could interview indie developers online (via email) and include their art in my magazine.

So a gaming magazine is definitely a possibility, especially if I focus on the artistic side of games.