Game reviews are unlike most other reviews. They are a skill unto their own, a task that is meant only for the most able. Or, maybe, it’s a task meant only for the well informed. That’s right, the turf may be exclusive but there are certain basic ground rules that apply when writing a game review and by sticking to these said rules it will become much simpler for any one of you to create a competent review of a game! Of course, the true quality of the review will be determined by the quality of the content that you bring to it, but that’s for you to think about and decide at a later point. My aim here, is merely to introduce you to the fundamentals of game reviewing.

Lesson one: Never underestimate your opponent.

Readers of game reviews are usually avid gamers who are seeking their next challenge. Given these circumstances, they are bound to know exactly what they want and will be quick to spot any holes in your review. This means that you simply cannot write a review without first doing your homework thoroughly. Play the game yourself,  and then write based on your personal experiences from such exposure, it simply will not do to watch others play the game. When it comes to talking about the  feel of the game, the graphics, the theme, the ease of use of the interface, the quality of the artificial intelligence and other such nuances it is best you refer to personal experiences.

Lesson Two: Know Your Turf Better Than Your Enemy

It is important that you delve into every possible detail in order to extract as much information as you can. Lace your review with interesting tidbits about the history of the game, its evolution, compare it with previous editions or other similar games, describe the story sequence,if any, mention the length of the game, whether it is single or multi-player, whether it can be played live with other players or not, whether there are any age restrictions, if there’s anything to know about this game, make sure you know it!

Lesson Three: Be Honest In Your Opinions

Be unabashedely honest in your overall review of the game. Rate it without bias after having substantiated the reasons for your support or criticism of the game. You have to convince readers to trust your judgement and you can only do this by establishing two things: a)that you’re opinions are honest and b)that they are framed based on valid reasoning!

This may not make you an  expert but you can take satisfaction in knowing that you  have started your learning. Keep these tips in mind when writing your next game review and you are bound to notice the startling difference in the quality of your content!