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  • Comment: A lot of content here isn't cited. Sources provided don't have a lot of significant coverage of the magazine itself. Medium is not a reliable source. Rambley (talk) 14:43, 4 June 2025 (UTC)

Video Games Magazine
File:Video game magazine cover by Richard Kriegler.png
Video games magazine cover Volume 1 issue 5
[1]
A sample issue of Video Games Magazine
CategoriesComputer and video game console magazine
FrequencyMonthly
PublisherPumpkin Press
First issueAugust 1982
Final issueMay 1984 (Volume 2, Issue 8)
CountryUnited States

Video Games is a video game magazine published by Pumpkin Press Inc. in the United States from 1982 to 1984. As one of the early American publications dedicated to the genre, it focuses on console, arcade, and later computer games, providing coverage and insights during a key time in the gaming industry. Pumpkin Press published a total of 21 issues, starting with Volume 1, Number 1 in August 1982 and concluding with Volume 2, Number 8 in May 1984.[2] First 7 issues were edited by Steve Bloom, the remaining part by Roger C. Sharpe.[3] Initially, the magazine was released bi-monthly (1 time per 2 mounths) before shifting to a monthly publication schedule in 1983. For USA the price was $2.50 per issue, and for Canada $2.75 per issue. Each edition generally includes a combination of industry news, game reviews, interviews, and special features relevant to the developing video game sector. The magazine was produced in a standard United States format, measuring approximately 8.5 by 11 inches (216 by 279 millimeters), which is similar to the A4 size (210 by 297 millimeters) commonly utilized in Europe. The total page count for each issue varied, typically ranging from 82 to 106 pages.

History

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Early Issues (1982 – Early 1983)

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The initial editions are predominantly focused on the phenomenon of arcade gaming[4] , reflecting the prevailing circumstances within the industry during that era. The content includes strategies for achieving high scores, thorough evaluations of arcade games, and analyses of landmark titles such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. Additionally, interviews with key industry figures, including Nolan Bushnell, provide crucial insights into the dynamics of the arcade gaming sector and its rapid transformation. Articles also explore the relationship between video games and various cultural dimensions, such as music, films, and comics, highlighting the medium's expanding significance within broader cultural contexts.

Mid to Late Issues (Late 1983 – 1984)

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As home gaming systems became increasingly popular, the magazine adapted its content to feature expanded coverage of consoles such as the Atari 2600 and ColecoVision.[5] This shift includes detailed game reviews and discussions of hardware specifications. Additionally, the publication began to present more in-depth articles, offering insights into game development processes and analyses of prevailing industry trends. Game reviews evolved to become more comprehensive, equipping readers with thorough assessments to assist in their purchasing decisions.

Sections

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Hyperspace

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This section is an editorial column that serves as a crucial part of the publication, providing thoughtful commentary on emerging industry trends and issues. By offering insights into the current landscape, the editor plays a key role in helping readers understand and engage with the material presented throughout the issue.

Flipside

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The section serves as a humor and satire that explores the lighter aspects of gaming culture. Employing wit and irony, it provides critical commentary for various aspects of the gaming world, inviting readers to reflect on prevalent trends.

Letters to the Editor

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Reader correspondence, providing feedback and insights from the magazine's audience.

Blips

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A collection of short news items covering developments in the gaming world, including product announcements, especially Atari, and cultural phenomena.

Coin-Op Shop

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The section is focused on arcade (coin-operated) games and innovations dedicated to them.

Computer Corner

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Dedicated to computer gaming, featuring reviews and discussions of games for systems like the VIC-20 and TI-99/4A.

Soft Spot

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Reviews and previews of home console games, offering evaluations and recommendations.

Beating the Games

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Strategy guides and tips for popular arcade and console games, helping players improve their skills.

Dr. Video

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Explores the psychological and therapeutic aspects of video gaming, discussing topics like addiction and cognitive effects.

Hard Sell

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Analyzes gaming hardware and accessories, providing consumer advice and product comparisons.

Book Beat

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Reviews literature related to video games, including strategy guides and industry analyses.

References

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  1. ^ "Video Games, MAG-VIDEOGAMES". Video Game History Foundation Library. Retrieved June 1, 2025.
  2. ^ "Video Games Magazine". Internet Archive. May 31, 2013.
  3. ^ Kleinfield, N R (October 17, 1983). "Video Games Industry Comes Down to Earth". The New York Times.
  4. ^ "Pixels and Progress: The Rise of Arcade Culture and Its Lasting Impact". Haystack. Retrieved June 1, 2025.
  5. ^ Bennett, Julian (June 30, 2021). "From Arcade to Console: The Evolution of Video Game Technology". Medium. Retrieved June 1, 2025.