Dennis Publishing, publishers of titles such as VIZ and The Week and owners of the Den of Geek website, has just launched Minecraft World, a non-licensed monthly print magazine based on the hugely popular cross-platform computer game.
As downthetubes readers will know, Minecraft is a simple, intuitive, and completely addictive open-world game that has sold over 55 million copies worldwide, with thousands of new players joining the ranks every day. From basic block building through to crafting items and fighting “mobs”, it’s a hugely absorbing experience that has captured the imagination of millions of children that has even seen the creation of Beano-inspired elements, and competitors such as the recently-reported Lego Worlds.
Aimed at 7-11 year olds, Minecraft World magazine is described by the publisher as an unofficial guide to the Minecraft game. Each issue is packed full of news on what’s happening within the Minecraft community, tips on achieving various goals, tutorials, puzzles, plenty of expert advice and a free covermount gift.
“Minecraft is a truly wonderful game that taps into the player’s imagination,” says said Dharmesh Mistry, Publisher, “letting them create their own experience and it has seen phenomenal success across the globe, increasingly so on mobile devices. There was a real gap in the market for a quality print magazine that could help children develop their game strategy,”
Minecraft World has been launched, from conception to newsstand, in a record five weeks, with Dennis Publishing demonstrating its trademark agility in print as well in its digital business.
“As a company, we pride ourselves on our agility and innovation and Minecraft World is the perfect example of how Dennis Publishing can react quickly to opportunities in the marketplace,” continues Mistry. “As a result, Dennis will have the first unofficial Minecraft magazine on sale in the UK.”
The 52-page children’s magazine launches with an initial launch print run of 45,000 and a 101 Minecraft Secrets Guide covermount gift. The magazine costs £3.99 and has already been snapped up by WH Smith, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and all good independent newsagents.
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The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.
He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.
Categories: Magazines