PC Gamer UK: A Legacy of PC Gaming Journalism
Since its inception in December 1993, PC Gamer UK has served as a cornerstone of gaming media in the United Kingdom. Published by Future plc and based in Bath, Somerset, the magazine has spent over three decades providing deep-dive analysis and comprehensive coverage of the PC gaming landscape. Written in British English, it is renowned for its commitment to in-depth reviews and its ability to evolve alongside the rapidly changing technology of the industry.
For subscribers, the publication offers a unique aesthetic experience; special editions are produced without headlines on the front cover, featuring only the masthead and the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) rating.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- First Issue: December 1993.
- Publisher: Future plc.
- Frequency: 13 issues per year (every four weeks).
- Focus: Almost exclusively devoted to PC games and hardware.
- Current Editor: Phil Savage.
The Evolution of Physical Media
In its early years, PC Gamer UK was more than just a printed magazine; it was a primary source for game demos. The publication originally shipped with a 3.5-inch (89 mm) floppy disc. As storage needs grew, the magazine introduced CD Gamer starting with issue 11, which initially bundled all content from the previous ten floppy discs. This eventually expanded into a two-CD format.
As technology progressed to higher capacities, the magazine launched DVD Gamer, featuring a 9 GB DVD. This ran alongside the CD edition for several years until issue 162, after which the magazine transitioned to a single double-sided DVD. By August 2011, coinciding with issue 232, the physical discs were discontinued entirely, replaced by additional printed content and exclusive free gifts.
Editorial Structure and Regular Features
The magazine is structured around several recurring sections that cater to different aspects of the gaming hobby. From hardware recommendations to community interaction, the layout ensures a comprehensive experience for the reader.
Content Sections
- Eyewitness and Previews: Early looks at upcoming titles.
- Send: A two-page spread dedicated to reader letters.
- Special Features: Long-form reports on industry issues, such as the environmental impact of PC gaming.
- Review Section: In-depth critiques of new releases and re-evaluations of budget titles.
- Extra Life: A section focused on gaming culture, modding (modifying game files to change gameplay), and revisiting classic titles.
- Systems: Expert reviews and recommendations for hardware, including monitors and video cards.
- It's All Over: The back page, often featuring gaming-themed artwork, such as Portal-inspired versions of Dalí's The Persistence of Memory.
The magazine also experimented with community-driven art. The original "Gamer Snap" feature, which showcased reader photos, was eventually replaced by a "Guess the Game" segment where readers submitted scenes drawn in Microsoft Paint.
Digital Expansion: Blogs, Forums, and Podcasts
To complement the print edition, PC Gamer UK expanded into the digital realm. The official blog was launched as part of a transition into the Computer and Video Games network. While the move initially caused controversy among forum members due to layout and performance issues, the blog became a highly valued resource for staff contributions on topics ranging from game violence to the PC vs. Console debate.
In 2010, the digital presence was further streamlined by merging the US and UK online communities into a single global website and forum.
Audio content also played a major role in the brand's reach. The PC Gamer UK podcast debuted on 4 May 2007, running for 93 episodes until July 2013. Featuring a rotating cast of staff—including Chris Thursten, Tom Senior, Graham Smith, Tom Francis, and Marsh Davies—the podcast evolved from a monthly to a fortnightly schedule, discussing industry news and Twitter-submitted questions. After a hiatus, the podcast returned in March 2016 with a weekly release schedule.
Publication Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | Future plc |
| Base of Operations | Bath, Somerset, UK |
| Language | British English |
| Circulation (2013) | 22,054 Total (19,125 Print / 2,929 Digital) |
| Circulation (2012) | 24,513 Total (21,272 Print / 3,241 Digital) |
| Circulation (2011) | 24,031 Total (23,652 Print / 379 Digital) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was PC Gamer UK first published?
The first issue of PC Gamer UK was released in December 1993.
What happened to the demo discs included with the magazine?
The magazine transitioned from 3.5-inch floppy discs to CD Gamer, then to DVD Gamer. Physical discs were officially discontinued as of issue 232 in August 2011, replaced by more pages and free gifts.
What is the "Extra Life" section about?
Extra Life is a regular feature that reports on gaming culture, the modding community, and revisits older games.
How has the PC Gamer UK website evolved?
Originally a standalone site, it became part of the Computer and Video Games network and eventually merged its online communities and blogs with the US edition in 2010 to create a unified global website.
Is there still a PC Gamer UK podcast?
Yes. After an initial run from 2007 to 2013, the podcast was relaunched in March 2016 with weekly episodes.