Bittersweet Announcement

In a bittersweet announcement that has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, Future Publishing has confirmed the cancellation of Play magazine, one of the last vestiges of print gaming journalism in the UK. The beloved magazine dedicated to PlayStation enthusiasts will be publishing its final issue shortly, marking the end of an era.

Emotional Farewell

In an emotional statement shared via its social media channels, Play acknowledged the significance of this moment, stating, "It is with a heavy heart that we inform our readers that the next issue will be our final edition." The publication has served a loyal readership since its inception, continuing the legacy of the UK's Official PlayStation Magazine (OPM), which was retired in May 2021 after an impressive 25-year run.

Legacy of Play Magazine

When OPM ceased its publication, it was succeeded by Play, which retained the core editorial team but dropped the official Sony branding. While this rebranding reset the magazine’s numbering, it was essentially a spiritual successor that aimed to deliver the same high-quality content. Over its four-year lifespan, Play managed to encapsulate nearly three decades of gaming legacy, combining the best of both OPM and other renowned UK publications such as PSM.

Reflections from the Editor

Editor Oscar Taylor-Kent expressed his sentiments in a heartfelt message published on Future's flagship gaming site, GamesRadar+. He reflected on the nostalgia and passion that has always driven the team, stating, "We all love to play – but the unfortunate truth is that at some point all games must come to an end." With a nod to the challenges faced by gamers—be it losing a battle, feeling frustration, or simply reaching the game’s conclusion—Taylor-Kent acknowledged that the magazine's time has come to a close.

Tribute to the Team

Adding a personal touch, he paid tribute to key team members Jessica Kinghorn, Miriam McDonald, and Milford Coppock, thanking them for making his years with OPM and Play an enjoyable experience. Their contributions have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the landscape of gaming journalism.

Changing Times in Media

As the print medium continues to decline in the face of digital consumption, the cancellation of Play magazine serves as a poignant reminder of the changing times in media and the challenges faced by print publications in maintaining relevance in a saturated digital world. Despite this, the spirit of gaming journalism lives on through online platforms, streaming services, and dedicated gaming blogs that continue to connect with millions of players globally.

Conclusion and Farewell

Fans and followers are left reflecting not just on the magazine's closure, but also on the treasured memories and experiences it provided over the years. Will this mark the end of print gaming coverage altogether? Only time will tell, but for now, the gaming community bids a fond farewell to Play magazine.