Computer and Video Games

I've been reading Computer and Video Game magazine since about 1987 and back then, when they covered ALL formats including the Amstrad CPC, Spectrum, Commodore 64, Master System and NES, it was the only quality multi-format gaming publication around. But what of the recent changes? The new style, the website? I decided to check it ou myself and bought this month's issue (November 2001, which comes with a free calendar that displays a history of C&VG Magazine). Well, on the plus side, the magazine still covers as many formats as possible, has information on hundereds of games each month and the cover stories are usually well written. ...

...but only if you take into consideration what it really is. It's for kids, and it's abundantly clear throughout. Most people over 14 will probably find it condescending and mundane, or even puerile, but who cares, kids love that kind of thing. The reviews are easy to understand, clearly presented and illustrated nicely. I’m sure most of the articles would be enjoyable to the target audience, and usually there are 1 or 2 that I can appreciate. Loads of jokes, fairly up to date reviews, and not too drawn in by hype. The free gifts are fairly frequent, and brilliantly tacky, and it's got a good price (although it does seem to rise fairly often...). ...

I first subscribed to this magazine a year ago. It was great, the reviews were about right and it was there to cover all the current platforms out there. However, all was lost when they decided to raise the prices. Month by month, the prices increased from the ridiculously low price of £1.50 to a high £2.50. I wasn't willing to pay this price anymore so I decided to quit the subscription. The free stuff you occasionally get with the magazine isn't exactly brilliant - window stickers, cheap calenders, inflatable pac-men.. and such like. Aside from all the negative points, CVG does have its positive side. The reviews are all interesting to read ...