I’ve struggled in the past trying to put meaning into review scores. Can a 10/10 or a 5/5 still have flaws? What’s the balance of objectivity and subjectivity? (I’ve never understood the ‘reviews should ONLY, ONLY be objective crowd,’ honestly.) Video games are an art, and I’m never going to be able to talk about art without talking about how something makes me feel.
Lately, I’ve been using a ‘Not Recommended/Recommended’ scale. Again, this has been fine, but after playing games this year like Wanderstop and Sword of the Sea, I decided it’s time for me to expand the scale, especially with more review opportunities coming my way.
I’ll always, ALWAYS mark whether I’ve purchased a game to review, or a code has been provided for me.
This is a game that’s hard to recommend in its current state, and doesn’t feel quite complete, almost like it’s in alpha. The game has bugs or confusing mechanics, resulting in little to no enjoyment.
This is a game with a clever idea at its core, but poorly executed. Mechanics may be unpolished, and there may be performance issues or a frustrating gameplay loop, but this one could really shine after some TLC and updates.
A three-star game boasts a solid concept, accompanied by some fun moments. Despite some flaws, minor performance issues, or repetitive gameplay loop, it has good bones. It’s something I’d recommend for fans of the genre (or a good sale).
This is a game that’s creative and memorable, with very few issues. The art is excellent, the music is compelling, and it tells a captivating story with fun gameplay and mechanics.
Expanding on the previous criteria, this is a game I’m going to want to shout from the rooftops to recommend. The game design, characters, gameplay, and story are something that will stay with me long after the credits roll.