Abzac

‘Abzats’ was a print newspaper for ZX Spectrum enthusiasts, published in Vologda from October 2000 to October 2009. Over the course of nine years, 32 issues were published. The idea for his own newspaper came to Alexander Shushkov (axor) in the late 1990s, following the closure of ‘ZX-Revue’, when ZX Spectrum enthusiasts lost their usual print platform for communication. However, it was not possible to bring this plan to fruition straight away: he lacked experience in journalism, layout skills and the necessary technical resources. Alexander was only able to return to this project after completing his military service, when a friend who worked as a layout artist at a local newspaper offered his support. Initially, the content was prepared on an actual ZX Spectrum, brought over on floppy discs to his friend, and laid out straight away on an IBM PC. Many elements of the future publication were conceived right in the course of the work — for instance, the ‘Abzats’ logo was created whilst the debut issue was being prepared. Over time, Alexander learnt to do the layout himself. Later, he began collaborating with a local commercial publication, which allowed him to gain the necessary experience and, in time, take full responsibility for the entire production process of *Abzats*. Most issues were printed on a domestic laser printer in runs of 50–100 copies. Where necessary, the newspaper was reprinted in small batches as orders came in. Only the very last issue, the 32nd, was printed at a mini-printing house. The most serious problem throughout the years remained a lack of material. Despite readers’ interest and a steady subscription base, only a handful of people sent in articles. Consequently, a significant proportion of the newspaper had to be filled with reprints from online publications. The story’s conclusion was entirely predictable. Family commitments demanded more and more of his time, the few remaining contributors gradually disappeared, and interest in the ZX Spectrum began to wane noticeably. It became increasingly difficult to keep the publication going on his own, and in October 2009, the story of ‘Abzats’ came to an end.