13.May.2025
Hans Ippisch
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In memoriam: Manfred Kleimann, ASM editor-in-chief, has passed away
The German computer games industry mourns the passing of Manfred Kleimann, who died on April 13, 2024, at the age of 69. As the creative mind behind the magazine "ASM – Aktueller Software Markt", he is considered one of the pioneers of German games journalism.
Originally coming from the field of urban and landscape planning, Kleimann discovered his enthusiasm for language, media, and technology early on. In the mid-1980s, he recognized the potential of the still young medium of computer games and developed ASM, one of the first magazines aimed not only at programmers but explicitly at gamers, with its own stylistic devices, sections, and unmistakable tone.
From 1986 to 1991, he shaped the profile of the magazine published by Tronic Verlag as its editor-in-chief – and thus also the self-image of a growing gaming community. Kleimann knew how to combine technical fascination, editorial curiosity, and linguistic ease – a style that set a precedent and paved the way for later magazines such as Power Play and Amiga Joker.
He remained connected to the industry even after his time at ASM, working as a product manager at Konami, as a freelance editor, and later as a translator and proofreader.
Manfred "Manni" Kleimann was not a loud representative of the scene, but he was an influential one. His keen sense for topics, his editorial style, and his courage to think up new formats leave a lasting impression.
An online condolence book has been set up in memory of Manfred Kleimann. (nba)
[News message: 13. May. 2025, 12:01] [Comments: 0]
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