Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Anatomy of a Review: Introduction

I thought it would be some decent content to go over each section of my standard review criteria.  So sit back and be prepared for a nice 12 part series or so with short blog entries on each section.

I usually open up my reviews with just the smallest of paragraphs introducing the reason for the review.  Most often I write a review because it's a game I've been enjoying for quite some time.  If so, then I tell them that.  Usually I try to mention how many times I've played it and what my general relationship is with it.  I generally try to write on a thin crusp between objective and subjective in the body of my reviews.  In the introductions though, I'll generally go subjective and express my feelings some.

I think the main point of the introduction is to set the mood for a review.  I want people to empathize a little with me.  I'm an analytical guy by nature and want them to understand that.

Sarcasm is really hard to detect on the internet, so I like to make sure that people realize I'm not going to break out sarcastic comments on them.

Here's some examples from past reviews:

Terra PrimeTerra Prime is a recent release by Tasty Minstrel Games. I received my Pre-Order signed by the designer Seth Jaffee himself. After a couple two player games though, I just don't think the game is for me. Of course, I don't like Agricola nor Battlestar Galactica, so please don't go jumping to conclusions for yourself. I noticed there isn't a lot of information out there for Terra Prime, so I thought I'd give it a good detailed review.


Endeavor - Got a chance to play this exciting game at GenCon. I admit I only played a couple times, but I thought an early review was better than none given the lack of information. My short bit: just an awesome game.

DominionLook mom! It's a BGG Phenomenon.
No it's not dear, that's just "Hype".

Well, is it? That's really the question isn't it? And luckily, the answer is.... *drum roll please* ... up to you of course! Luckily unlike some recent hits (*cough* Agricola *cough*) this game costs under $30 and plays in well under an hour. Meaning? You'll easily get a chance to try it yourself.

For myself though, it is living up to the hype.

(Review Caveat, I haven't gotten in my desired number of games for a review, but I hadn't seen any full detailed reviews yet, so I thought I'd do it anyway.)

2 comments:

  1. On what planet does Dominion cost under $30?! the 2nd expansion costs almost $50, and you can't even play that one by itself (like you can Intrigue)!

    ReplyDelete
  2. It's true that they have an MSRP of US$50. But I figure a lot of the readers of BGG buy online like I do, at which they're under $30 before shipping. And I usually go in with gaming buddies to get over the free shipping threshold.

    As for the second expansion, supposedly you get nifty coins with it too!

    ReplyDelete

Behave. Your mamma could read this.