So you’re wondering how we approach our reviews and the reasoning behind how they are structured? Well you came to the right place. Let’s talk about Scores, what they mean, how to compare them and what helps a game receive a higher score.
Full review info after the jump
Scores
The much talked about but massively respected by readers, review scores. It’s true that we used to run a twenty point scale from 0 – 10 with half points in between. Sometime last year we questioned the need for twenty ways to describe whether a game is good or not. Simplification was paramount to us, so after initial ideas of a ten point scale we moved to a five star system. Simply one star to five stars that sums up how good a game is keeps it simple. See it more as terrible, bad, average, good, great instead of 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 stars respectively.
The problem is that although the newer scoring system reflects on the general scope of a game, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Three stars could mean a game is unoriginal but solid or it could mean, the opposite, that it’s original but flawed. In order to make sure what’s the best game to purchase for you, it’s best to read the text thoroughly.
Comparing The Scores
First lets say that Gears of War 2 got a four while Crayon Physics for the iPhone received a four as well (both are true by the way). This isn’t to say that comparatively that Crayon Physics and Gears of War 2 are essentially the same. This is however saying that for this point in time, on their respective platforms while considering any previous releases, they are both ‘good’ games.
What Helps
Obviously each reviewer will have their own point of view on what a game should be. We don’t enforce one universal way of observing games as it’s impossible. We do however reward higher grades to games that show longevity, originality and innovation.
If you have any further questions drop us a comment below and we’ll try and get back to you as fast as possible.
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