Gaming is no longer just a hobby for a few teenagers. It’s a way of life for millions of players around the world. Whether they enjoy huge VR RPG adventures or a quick game of online blackjack, these players don’t just play – they build communities, stream content, follow esports and buy merchandise.
Gaming influences their fashion, music and even language. This growing world needs a strong media to match its dynamism. That’s where gaming magazines are so useful. They offer news, reviews, interviews, releases, indie hits, retro revivals and hardware trends.
From glossy monthlies to digital-zines, gaming magazines help players stay connected. Trusted magazines offer clarity. We asked a gaming magazine expert for the best titles you can read today:
Edge (UK)
Edge is the world’s most respected gaming magazine. Launched in the UK in 1993, it covers gaming art, tech and business. It is an intelligent look at the scene. Edge focuses on in-depth features, interviews and thoughtful critique.
The clean design and minimalist style set it apart. Readers value its longform content. Print editions remain popular but digital subscriptions are rising.
Game Informer (US)
Game Informer is now one of the biggest gaming magazines in the world. Published by GameStop, it reaches millions in print and online.
Since 1991 it has become known for exclusive previews, developer interviews and honest reviews in all platforms and genres. Game Informer also dives into pop culture, tech and film. The title is available in both print and digital formats
Retro Gamer (UK)
Retro Gamer celebrates a golden age of classic consoles, arcade history and forgotten gems. It’s packed with nostalgic features, interviews with developers and collector guides.
The magazine appeals to older gamers and new fans curious about the past.
PC Gamer (UK/US)
PC Gamer launched in the UK in 1993 and soon expanded to the US. It’s now a global leader that tracks hardware, builds, indie games, AAA releases and esports. The print magazine remains strong but its website is now a global success.
PC Gamer delivers news, previews, mod guides and in-depth reviews that are respected for editorial independence. The brand also runs a popular YouTube channel.
Wireframe (UK)
Wireframe is a newer title from Raspberry Pi Press. It launched in 2018 and targets aspiring game developers and curious players with a mix of education and entertainment.
The magazine explores the “how” behind game design, with code samples, dev tutorials and studio stories. Each issue includes reviews and retro coverage.
Wireframe is available in print and as a free PDF. Its mission is to expand understanding of how games are made.
Official PlayStation Magazine (UK/US)
Now rebranded as Play Magazine in the UK, this long-running title remains a go-to source for all PlayStation fans. It offers platform exclusives, developer access and hands-on previews.
First launched in the mid-1990s, the magazine’s official links give it authority but its writing remains sharp and independen
GamesMaster (UK)
Though it ceased publication in 2018, GamesMaster is one of the most fondly remembered gaming magazines. It ran for 25 years and was known for its humour.
It tackled all major platforms and genres. Its legacy still influences magazine design and tone.
Fans track down GamesMaster archives online. Old issues remain popular among retro fans and collectors.
Nintendo Force (US)
Nintendo Force launched in 2013. Created by fans, it features colourful layouts, strong features and platform loyalty.
It covers Switch games, indie titles, retro features and fan creations. It concentrates on its print version and includes comics, puzzles and guest columns.
Readers love its nostalgia-driven style and insider feel. It’s a rare example of successful fan-led print publishing
Game™ (UK)
Not to be confused with the UK High Street game retailer, Game™ magazine was an influential title in the early 2000s.
It combined slick design with smart writing and a cross-platform approach and attracted an indie cult following. It’s now a collector’s item among gaming archivists.
Level (US)
Level is a newer, digital-only magazine focused on longform gaming journalism. Based in the US, it digs deep into culture, ethics and storytelling.
It’s subscription-based and features essay-style reflections, interviews and sharp opinion. Level appeals to adult gamers seeking substance.
It avoids hype in favour of thoughtful coverage. Its clean layout and progressive voice make it stand out.
Why Magazines Still Matter
In a world of fast feeds and streaming, gaming magazines offer focus. They mix passion with professionalism. It’s the best way to find deeper stories, developer insights and curated opinion.
From print to PDF, these magazines shape the culture as much as they reflect it. They connect players, preserve history and champion new voices. For serious fans, they offer not just news and reviews but a sense of belonging to a special personal club.
Markus lives in San Francisco, California and is the video game and audio expert on Good e-Reader! He has a huge interest in new e-readers and tablets, and gaming.