Back in January, just a week into the new year, Electronic Gaming Monthly was purchased by media giant Hearst, promptly closed, and purged of all its employees. That was a particularly black day as I considered EGM the bible of videogame journalism, even when the content lost some of its luster in the Ziff Davis era. In its 20-year existence, it was the face of the industry, and set the standard of excellence for print game coverage.
The raw, indie spirit of the early years still held a special place in my heart: it was the first gaming mag I ever purchased, and the place where I learned of one of my favorite consoles, the PC Engine. But like Jesus, Horus, and oh so many zombies, EGM is back from the dead. For reals. And it’s not even April 1st.
Steve Harris, one of the founders of Electronic Gaming Monthly, sent out a press release stating that he had acquired EGM‘s trademarks and publishing rights from Ziff Davis Media. Yes!
“The re-launch of Electronic Gaming Monthly represents a welcome opportunity to continue delivering quality content to gaming enthusiasts,” said Harris. “I feel honored to once again be associated with this respected magazine. The talented writers and designers who built upon EGM’s original vision have left behind a publication that is uniquely positioned to be successful.”
EGM is set to be relaunched in the second half of 2009, but the release didn’t specify if there will be a print magazine (EGMNOW.com, however, currently has a placeholder). It doesn’t matter really; simply having EGM back is any capacity has me all a-tingle, and I’m looking forward to see what Harris and company does with its direction.
Welcome back, boys.
Pingback: Look and Drool: Japanese R-Type Model | 2D-X, Where old school gaming is new school.