Gary Penn

Gary Penn is a British video game journalist, television presenter, and consultant best known for his work on the groundbreaking UK television show GamesMaster during the 1990s.

Penn's career began in the early days of video game journalism. He was a founding editor and prominent writer for Zzap!64, a popular magazine dedicated to the Commodore 64 computer. His writing style was known for its humor, wit, and in-depth analysis, which helped establish a new standard for video game journalism. He was also involved in the creation of Crash, a magazine focused on the ZX Spectrum.

Following his success in print journalism, Penn transitioned to television with GamesMaster. As one of the show's resident "Games Gurus," he offered advice, opinions, and reviews of the latest video games. His irreverent personality and critical perspective contributed significantly to the show's cult following and lasting impact on British gaming culture. He was known for his distinctive look, often featuring sunglasses, and his sometimes controversial opinions.

After GamesMaster, Penn continued to work in the video game industry, including roles as a consultant and developer. He has remained a visible figure in the UK gaming scene, participating in documentaries, podcasts, and other media related to the history of video games. His contributions to both print and television have made him a significant figure in the evolution of video game culture in the United Kingdom.