Future's "proposed closure" of PC Zone
UK's first PC games mag apparently working on final issue
Future Publishing has proposed the closure of its long-standing gaming magazine PC Zone.
A confusingly-worded posting on the official site says "PC Zone's final issue - the end is nigh. Yes, it's true," before then claiming "Following a strategic review of Future's PC games portfolio, the company is now consulting the PC Zone team about the proposed closure of the magazine, with effect from issue 225 (on-sale 2nd September)."
In a clarification to GamesIndustry.biz, publisher James Binns said: "Following a strategic review of our PC games portfolio, we’re consulting with four members of staff on PC Zone about the proposed closure of this magazine with effect from issue 225 (August).
"The team have done a great job in producing a quality magazine over the years, so it’s been a difficult decision to make this proposal. However, our strategy is to focus on the market leader and strong number two positions in the PC gaming category.
"We currently have three titles targeting the category – PC Gamer and PC Format are the most robust of the three and increased focus on those two titles will drive their impact in print and online. We’ll provide an update about any further developments as and when appropriate."
PC Zone's last editor, Steve Hogarty, recently departed the magazine to head up the UK version of Nordic site GameReactor. A replacement editor had yet to be announced.
The magazine was launched in 1993, and counts amongst its former staff media personality Charlie Brooker.