Must-Haves for Your Collection: Top 3 Retro Gaming Magazines
Remember the thrill of flipping through a new issue of your favorite gaming magazine? The anticipation of upcoming releases, the detailed reviews, and those coveted cheat codes – these weren't just guides, they were portals to fantastical worlds. Today, owning these magazines in physical form adds a tangible layer of nostalgia to your retro collection. So, grab your virtual shopping cart and get ready to relive the golden age, because we're diving into the top 5 retro gaming magazines you need on your shelf!
Nintendo Power (1988-2000): The Official Guide to the Mushroom Kingdom
For Nintendo enthusiasts, Nintendo Power was the ultimate bible. Published by Nintendo itself, this magazine offered a treasure trove of official content. Each issue came packed with in-depth previews and reviews of upcoming titles. Breathtaking artwork, detailed maps, and insightful developer commentary fueled the hype for every Nintendo release. But Nintendo Power wasn't just about the latest hits. It also featured:
- Classic Strategies: Dedicated sections offered comprehensive guides for timeless titles, ensuring you finally conquered that tricky level in Super Mario World.
- Humor and Heart: Hilarious comic strips featuring iconic characters like Mario and Link added a touch of lightheartedness, while interviews with developers gave readers a glimpse behind the curtain of game creation.
- Time Capsule of Nostalgia: Owning a collection of Nintendo Power magazines is like owning a time capsule, filled with the vibrant spirit of the Nintendo era, from the dominance of the NES to the rise of the N64.
Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) (1989-2013): The Irreverent Reviewers
EGM stood out from the pack with its bold personality. This magazine offered in-depth coverage of games across all platforms, but with a healthy dose of irreverent humor. EGM wasn't afraid to call out even the biggest titles, offering honest and insightful reviews that resonated with gamers. Their iconic review system, featuring scores for graphics, sound, play mechanics, and the ever-important "Lasting Appeal," remains a nostalgic benchmark for many gamers. Beyond reviews, EGM provided:
- Engaging Previews: Multi-page spreads showcasing upcoming titles, often featuring stunning artwork and in-depth developer insights, were a true feast for the eyes.
- Interviews with Legends: EGM offered insightful interviews with industry icons, from designers like Shigeru Miyamoto to programmers like John Romero. These interviews provided a unique perspective on the creative process behind our favorite titles.
- Platform Agnostic: Owning a collection of EGM magazines is like taking a journey through the evolution of gaming across multiple platforms. From the rise of the Super Nintendo to the dominance of the PlayStation, EGM documented it all with wit and a passion for the craft.
GamePro (1989-2018): The Action-Packed Arcade Experience
This magazine carved out its niche with a focus on action-packed titles and a slightly younger audience compared to EGM. The magazine's vibrant design and emphasis on "fun" made flipping through each issue a joy. Each edition boasted a healthy mix of:
- Energetic Reviews: Reviews were presented with an enthusiastic tone, highlighting the excitement and thrills of featured projects.
- Unlocking the Secrets: Dedicated code sections filled with cheat codes and unlockables were a goldmine for fans seeking an edge in their favorite titles.
- Quirky and Fun: Beyond core content, magazine offered insightful industry news, quirky interviews with developers, and hilarious comic strips featuring original characters. These lighter elements added a unique personality to the magazine.
So, there you have it! These top 3 retro gaming magazines will add a nostalgic touch to your collection, transporting you back to a golden age of gaming. Happy hunting, and remember, these are just a starting point! With a little research, you might even unearth some hidden gems to complete your retro gaming library.