Creem Circulation Hustle
Detroit, 1969
How to Play
- You have 12 months to make as much money as possible
- Each month, you get revenue from your subscribers
- Keep your resources (morale, cred, subscribers) above zero
- Game ends if you run out of any resource or after 12 months
Resources
- Cash: Spend on interviews, campaigns, and staff. Keep above $0!
- Morale: Keep your team happy. Low morale means poor performance.
- Street Cred: Earn respect to get better interviews and articles.
- Circulation: Your goal is 100,000 subscribers!
Basic Strategy
- Start by writing articles to build your cred and circulation
- Use interviews sparingly - they're expensive but can bring big rewards
- Keep morale above 30 to maintain good performance
- Save some cash for unexpected events
- Balance risky moves with safe plays to grow steadily
Tips for Success
- Early game: Focus on building a subscriber base
- Mid game: Balance expenses with revenue growth
- Late game: Maximize profits while maintaining resources
- Always keep an eye on morale - happy staff means better results
High Scores
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About Creem
In 1969, Detroit was the epicenter of rock and roll revolution, and at its heart was Creem Magazine. Founded by Barry Kramer and Tony Reay, Creem became the voice of a generation, capturing the raw energy of rock music with an irreverent style that changed music journalism forever.
This game is inspired by the magazine's legendary early days, when a small team of passionate writers and editors - including the iconic Lester Bangs, Dave Marsh, and Jaan Uhelszki - worked tirelessly to build what would become "America's Only Rock 'n' Roll Magazine."
Creem's influence was monumental. It introduced the world to groundbreaking rock criticism, coined the term "punk rock," and helped launch the careers of countless musicians. The magazine's unique voice - equal parts insightful, irreverent, and passionate - set the standard for music journalism.
While this game is a playful simulation of growing a music magazine, we pay our deepest respects to the real Creem Magazine and its incredible legacy. The actual magazine's impact on music, culture, and journalism cannot be overstated - it was, and remains, one of the most important publications in rock history.
Special thanks to all the writers, editors, photographers, and staff who made Creem Magazine what it was. Your work continues to inspire music journalists and fans around the world.