What it Takes to Review

I have helped with two system sites over the last few years and one site in a year and a half with reviewing games. But what does it take to get a game reviewed? What are the necessary steps to look good? Well, I'll tell you, and I think this will apply to anything in media.

1. Soak in your head. I would give it a little bit of time. Whether it's a few hours or a day, reflect. Think about what was good and what was bad. Was there stuff you appreciated? How high was the bar set? If it's a sequel or prequel, how does it stack up to its own franchise or its competition? Small or large criticisms? You got to account for all that.

2. Don't play fanboy. What I mean is be honest in your opinion. There is no reason to be gushing at every little thing. Talk what is good and go into reasons why you think it's that good or perfect. Go into detail. The same applies to the bad stuff. Don't go bashing for the sake bashing. Explain why something is horrendous. If you're going to compare, don't use it as a crutch for your review unless its necessary. It will bring out the fanboy in you.

3. Don't be different for the sake of being different. Going against the grain is not going to make you look cool. There's a reason a couple movie critics get shitted on for their opposite opinions. Much like the fanboy card, you should have reasons why you think differently. Even if people disagree in a venomous way, don't let it get into your head. If you can't, then you shouldn't be reviewing.

Those are just some of the reasons of what it takes to review. If you think there should be a part two, let me know.