How To Review Video Games

Have you recently played a game you loved or equally hated and want to write a game review on it but don’t know where to start? Attempting to review video games is both simple and complex depending on how much time and patience you are willing to exercise. That being said, here are some steps you can follow to review video games.

Play the game

The gaming industry hardly ever produces copies of their games in advance, which means you will probably have to wait until the game is released before you can play it. This means you will only have limited time to play the game before you can put out a review. Most gamers suggest playing the game for several hours to get an accurate feel of it. Remember, most gamers look for game reviews within a week from the release date, so you cannot afford to take too long.

After dedicating about 10 hours to play the game, you will have foundational knowledge about it, enough for you to write a detailed game review. It is important to let your readers whether or not you have completed the game by the time of the review. If the game has levels, you should try to scale up as much as possible as well. Such details will help your readers make a clear and informed decision. Later, you can write a more detailed game review when there is less pressure.

While you’re playing, take notes

Remember to write down short notes as you play the game. These will be your guide as you review video games as it simplifies the process. If you want to write an outstanding review, you need to give instances and clear comparisons. Be particular with the details without giving away too much or giving spoilers. Don’t just list what you have discovered. Go into detail about each attribute. When you write notes as you play, you can collect useful information in real time instead of leaving it up to memory.

Remember to have notes on the attributes you have liked so far and those you would wish to change, improve or rectify. Avoid being vague and instead handle each issue like sound, video quality, and graphics separately. When you address the things you would change, your reader can easily decide whether those are things they can live with or if they are dealbreakers. Here are some of the questions to guide you through your note-taking;
• What components are interesting or annoying?
• Does the game live up to its trailers?
• Which aspects are the best?
• What needs improvement?
• Are there any glaring issues or errors?
• What aspects of it amaze you?
• Which other games come to mind when you play it?

Compare the game with its previous versions

Chances are, if the game is not entirely new in the market, you have played or encountered its previous versions. As you examine the current game, keep its previous versions in mind. Ask yourself which ones you prefer in comparison and whether the current version is worth the challenge. The more detailed the information, the better.

Analyze a game within its own context. For instance, RPG games cannot be compared with FPS games. While most video games have multiple aspects, some focus on the narrative more. A successful analysis is done when you understand what the creators of the game were after and explain whether they attained their goal or missed it. Talk about why you enjoy playing the game and whether ultimately it met its target. If there are any redeeming qualities in the game, do not hesitate to mention them, and give credit wherever it is due.