Future explores 'GamesMaster' TV return

GamesMaster-owner Future has confirmed that it is "exploring" options for a revival of the magazine's sister TV show, which last enjoyed success in the 1990s.

Running from 1991 to 1998 on Channel 4, GamesMaster remains one of the most successful video game formats on UK television.

As part of cross-promotion plans to boost the magazine's presence, Future is now "exploring the potential for reviving the brand on TV screens".

After Future completed its full acquisition of GamesMaster last year, the publisher has been in negotiations with production firms, broadcasters and presenters about the TV show's return.

According to MCV, one terrestrial network has already expressed an interest in running the show in an early evening slot, with a possible launch later in 2010. The new format would retain many of the challenge elements from the original GamesMaster, but also focus on new releases.

"We have ambitious plans for the future of this iconic gaming brand, kicking off with a major redesign of GamesMaster magazine in May," said GamesMaster associate publisher Emma Parkinson.

"We intend to develop GamesMaster across multiple platforms, updating the look and feel, while protecting its 19-year legacy and the immense respect it receives from gamers and the industry itself."

Simon Maxwell, group publisher of Future's console and online portfolio, added: "GamesMaster is a key gaming brand for Future and there are some fantastic opportunities to expand its reach and influence beyond the magazine.

"This year, we'll bring a comprehensively redesigned GamesMaster magazine to market, develop an online presence through our existing sites, and explore the appetite for bringing the show back to TV."

> Click here to read our retrospective of the GamesMaster TV series