PC Gamer Magazine

Summary

This is a magazine dedicated to those interested in PC gaming. The magazine is divided into six sections: Monitor, Previews, Features, Reviews, Extra Life, and The Hard Stuff. On the table of contents page is also a corner of Highlights with images of games and gaming equipment that is new or reviewed. There is a Send section where readers’ questions are answered by the magazine. The Monitor section summarizes and reviews games and their characters, plots, and settings. Here, games are compared with other games as well. In this issue, an article in this section described the music of games and how to insert music into the games. The Previews section describes and analyzes games that will be available soon. Magazine writers have played the games and are writing about them so readers know what to expect. Five games were reviewed. It also includes a Release Meter to alert readers months ahead of time when new games will be out. The Features section is comprised of articles about important and interesting news in the PC gaming world. The Reviews section features reviews of games, how they are played, digital images of scenes and characters, and a PC Gamer rating. It also adds a Need to Know sidebar where readers read a very short summary of it, what the game was influenced by, what systems it can be played on, other games like it, and its copy protection. Extra Life features older games that are still being played, downloads and free games from the Web, and a How to section where readers learn how to perform tasks within games. The Hard Stuff features reviews of computer hardware.

Critical Evaluation

The cover draws readers’ attention with its large, full color graphic of a frightening monster about to kill a young man who is holding a gun. The monster has two heads, no eyes, and one head is engulfed in flames. Inside, the articles are detailed analyses and evaluations of PC games. Colored photographs and images of the games with descriptive, often humorous captions are featured on each page. Many contain diagrams to show the readers how to perform a task or accomplish a goal. These photographs and images capture the rich graphics of the game, which is a selling point for every game.

Much text accompanies the photographs to explain the intricacies of playing the games. Teasers, offering a small image and a brief description of new games, are exciting to readers looking ahead three, six, and nine months from now. The feature article not only has a detailed description and analysis, but also offers a double-spread page that folds out to create a poster that a reader could remove from the magazine. Description and analysis of characters include their weapons, strategies, and example skills. This magazine’s rich text and illustrations provide its readers with current information that enhances their level of play and provides them with a tangible source of entertainment related to the culture of PC gaming.

Why did I include this magazine?

I am aware that PC and online gaming is very popular, but I did not know much about this pastime and culture. This magazine provided me with an insight into this culture. It was very interesting to me, even though I do not play. The analyses and descriptions are very detailed and give readers much information. What was most interesting, though, was the illustrations. The graphics of these games are amazing!