The new Indie Game Magazine is out. I just went through the process of buying a digital copy (that was easy & quick) and here’s a review about this magazine. For starters, I think they’ve done good job making this indie game magazine. The magazine is really nice (maybe the ‘indie factor’ affects me to some extent), and there were only a few little things in the layout of the book that I didn’t like (The front page font in issue #3 didn’t look as nice as for example the front page of issue #1)… and of course there could be always more content but overall I enjoyed reading it.

I think all the reviews were clear and it was nice see that they have several reviewers there (both male and female by the way). The editorial was pro-indie (well, what can you expect…?) and I think those full page ads looked actually quite professional (hint for you: it’s pretty easy to get your ad there).

It was quite thrilling to read indie game reviews from an indie-only magazine. The concept is new, and I think the magazine deserves all the support it can get (put the word out you folks with blogs).

Here’s some ideas on what I’d consider adding:

• Subscription based buying could be more visible. Now it was hidden on some page on their site. I’d put a bloody big button near the banner (but maybe it’s just me :))
• I’d consider rewording that RSS/newsletter subscription (compared to magazine subscription). Perhaps somebody confuses these two (other is free, other isn’t)
• Get affiliates (at least for digital version, and offer 50-75% cut ‘for those who join early’): just think about offering developers free advertising space or cut of the payments if they promote the magazine. (Even 100% affiliate cut could work for first bought magazine).
• Add pictures of reviewers. A tiny thing but gives more personal touch.
• I don’t know if they’ve plans for this, but I’d add a small “news” section in the magazine. Something simple where indies could send news about their games (with one paragraph text or so).

Bottom line is that if you are a developer, then promote your games (you can do that for free by giving interview/content).

And if you are reading this post, then go and support indie gaming (like I did) in form of buying an indie gaming magazine. Check out the Indie Game Magazine.

Good stuff editors, keep it coming.