Good Bye Computer Gaming World

It’s official; Ziff Davis publication is changing the name of Computer Gaming World to Games For Windows: The Official Magazine (throws up). In a recent interview with firingsquad.com, CGW editor in chief, Jeff Green spilled the beans on the whole deal. Here’s a bit from the interview:

Green told us that the move represents a way to bring a bigger readership to the magazine, saying “We want to break it to a mainstream audience.” At the same time, Green wants to assure long time readers of Computer Gaming World that it will still be a hardcore PC gaming magazine, saying, “You are not going to see a three page article on Minesweeper.” All of the staff at CGW will be staying on with the new Games For Windows magazine (and yes the popular Tom vs Bruce column will remain as well). Green also said that their contract with Microsoft states that Microsoft will not have any editorial influence on the new Games For Windows magazine and said that long time CGW readers should trust that will be the case, saying,“The poof is going to be in the pudding.” At the same time, the new relationship with Microsoft should allow the magazine to get more exclusive first looks at upcoming Microsoft first party games and other Microsoft PC gaming oriented products.

The final issue of CGW will be the October 2006 issue, while the first issue of Games For Windows: The Official Magazine will be available sometime during November or December 2006. Existing subscribers will be eligible for the new magazine or they could cancel their subscription and get a refund.