ACE Magazine
Advanced Computer Entertainment
ACE provided multi-format coverage with a mature editorial approach, treating games as legitimate entertainment worthy of serious criticism.
Overview
Advanced Computer Entertainment stood apart from platform-specific magazines. Covering all major systems with consistent review standards, ACE brought a mature perspective to game criticism. Its percentage scores and detailed analysis influenced how games were evaluated across the industry.
Fast facts
- Publisher: Future Publishing.
- Run: 1987–1992.
- Focus: Multi-format gaming.
- Approach: Serious criticism.
Editorial philosophy
| Principle | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Platform agnostic | Same standards across systems |
| Mature tone | Assumed intelligent readers |
| Critical analysis | Detailed assessments |
| Percentage scores | Granular ratings |
Coverage format
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Reviews | Cross-platform comparisons |
| Features | Industry analysis |
| Previews | Upcoming releases |
| Technical | Hardware coverage |
Review approach
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scores | Percentage system |
| Categories | Graphics, sound, playability |
| Comparisons | Version differences noted |
| Length | Substantial analysis |
Multi-format advantage
ACE could compare:
- Same game across platforms
- Platform-exclusive titles objectively
- Technical implementations
- Value propositions
Staff
Notable writers who brought journalistic rigour to game coverage, influencing future publications.
Design quality
Magazine presentation:
- Professional layout
- Quality screenshots
- Clean typography
- Mature aesthetic
Market position
| Audience | Appeal |
|---|---|
| Multi-system owners | Practical guidance |
| Serious gamers | Trusted analysis |
| Adults | Mature content |
| Industry | Professional coverage |
End of publication
Folded into other Future titles as market fragmented and platform-specific magazines dominated.
Influence
ACE established:
- Multi-format review standards
- Serious game journalism model
- Percentage score precision
- Comparative analysis value