Imagine Publishing has announced that its two Xbox 360 magazine brands – X360 and 360 Magazine – will be merging with immediate effect.

Retaining the X360 brand, the new publication will benefit from the experience, dedication, and loyal readerships from both magazines, says Imagine. The new-look team will be led by editor Dan Howdle.

“Having been involved with both magazines throughout the last five years, it would be fair to say that X360 and 360 Magazine have always occupied their own individual niche; there have always been elements each has realised with greater effectiveness than the other,” commented editor Dan Howdle. “The new X360 combines the power of these unique strengths into one highly desirable whole. I could not be more thrilled at being a part of the team that’s going to make X360’s future a reality.”

Issue 87 of X360, the first merged issue, will be available from 11th July 2012 and features in-depth features on every major title from E3, exclusive interviews and access for a number of secret games and an enhanced DVD.