Game Criticism
Ongoing coverage on Game Criticism.
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Xbox weighs into Mixtape controversy in comment over ‘bad’ video games
Xbox commented on the controversy surrounding the indie game Mixtape, stating that a game not being personally enjoyable does not make it a bad game. The statement came after toxic discussions online about Mixtape, which is available on Game Pass. Despite some negative user reviews and attempts at review bombing, the game has received positive feedback on platforms like Metacritic and Steam.
The Sunday Papers
This article discusses various aspects of the gaming and media landscape, including the narrative shortcomings of Marvel's Spider-Man 2, the closure of A.V. Club Games and Paste Games, and the challenges of AI in translation. It also touches on the enduring appeal of the shooter Marathon and the debate around vaping regulation.
OPINION: Is Mixtape really a 10/10 game?
This opinion piece questions the prevalence of 10/10 review scores for narrative-driven games like Mixtape, arguing that personal emotional resonance is often conflated with objective quality and innovation. The author suggests that while Mixtape is a sincere experience, it doesn't redefine the medium in the way landmark titles like Elden Ring or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild did. The article calls for a clearer understanding of what review scores truly measure in modern game criticism.
Fallout designer Tim Cain thinks influencers have changed how people make and play games: 'more people seem to be abdicating their own judgement to that of people they see online'
Veteran Fallout designer Tim Cain believes the rise of influencers and streaming has negatively impacted game design and how players engage with games. He argues that many gamers now abdicate their own judgment to online personalities, leading to a less critical and more opinion-driven approach to experiencing video games.
WoW: Midnight snittar 84 i betyg – låser FZ High Score säsong 8
World of Warcraft: Midnight has received an average score of 84 out of 100 on Opencritic, based on 22 reviews. This score was higher than the predicted average of 81. The article also discusses the results of a prediction contest related to game review scores.
Massively Overthinking: Should gamers shut up about MMOs they don’t play?
Former Blizzard developer Jeff Kaplan stated that gamers should refrain from commenting on games they have not played, a sentiment echoed by some and debated by others. While some agree that uninformed criticism is detrimental, others argue that feedback from non-players can still be valuable for game development and community discourse.
Jeff Kaplan is sick of hearing you demonize games you weren't going to play anyway: 'Shut the f**k up. No one…
Former Blizzard VP Jeff Kaplan expressed frustration with online discourse surrounding games, stating that people who haven't played a game should not voice negative opinions about it. He believes such criticism is unproductive and stems from 'nerd baby rage.' Kaplan, now leading his independent studio Kintsugiyama, also reflected on his departure from Blizzard and his newfound freedom to speak candidly.
Former Overwatch director has sage advice for those who complain about games they don't play: "Shut the f**k…
Former Overwatch director Jeff Kaplan shared his views on legitimate game criticism, stating that individuals who have not played a game should refrain from tearing it down. He believes that only those with firsthand experience can offer informed opinions, though he acknowledges nuance for fans reacting to changes in beloved games. Kaplan also touched upon his upcoming game, The Legend of California.
Jeff Kaplan On Gamers Who Criticize Games They Haven't Played: "Shut The F*** Up!"
Former Blizzard VP Jeff Kaplan shared strong opinions on gamers who criticize titles they haven't played, stating they should "shut the f*** up." During a 10-hour livestream showcasing his new game, The Legend of California, Kaplan emphasized that opinions from non-players are ignored by developers. The Legend of California is an open-world, action-survival shooter set during the gold rush era, currently available to wishlist on Steam.
Why You Should Play Bad Games
This opinion piece argues that playing poorly reviewed or designed games can enhance a gamer's appreciation for well-crafted titles. By experiencing flaws in level design, controls, and artwork, players can gain a deeper understanding of what makes good games enjoyable. The author suggests this approach can combat gaming monotony and offers examples like The Binding of Isaac, Spelunky, and Super Meat Boy as games that, despite potential flaws, offer valuable lessons.
