My Rating System

In my reviews I’ll always go into what I consider pertinent detail about the graphics, sound and gameplay. At the end of every review there is an overall score. I use a five star(well – blob) system to keep things consistent and avoid bickering over tiny variations in totals. Here’s a run-down of what is meant by each rating.

1/5 – RED BLOB

This game is, by anyone’s standard – Absolutely terrible. We don’t in any way advise bothering with this title. It’s quite possibly offensively bad, and it’s certainly not “so bad it’s good” – It’s just bad. Something went seriously wrong here. Avoid.

2/5 – BLUE BLOB

This game is flawed. For the patient or easily amused there may be something enjoyable about this. It may take quite a lot of effort though. Only recommended for obsessive collectors or if you’ve done a lot of research and can’t live without it for some reason.

3/5 – BRONZE BLOB

Decent. An all round average game. There’s something to like here and although there are problems none of them break the core experience. If the game was hugely ambitious it must have fallen short to get an average rating. Perhaps as a total package something is lacking. Suggested for fans of the genre and can sit proudly in any collection.

4/5 – SILVER BLOB

Recommended. A very commendable effort that achieves what it sets out to do, falling short of the lofty 5* target. Buying this game is a no-brainer and it does not disappoint. Misses full marks due to something often rather minor, or that may not matter to all players.

5/5 – GOLDEN BLOB

Outstanding. This game is approaching perfection or offers so much at such quality that it deserves full attention. It may push boundaries, offer new experiences, or be polished to an unusual standard. May further the medium as a whole. Buy this game.

Note that you don’t have to agree with the review scores! Though I try to be as objective as possible there is always going to be a big element of opinion to any review. The comments are are great place to discuss the scores!

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Michael "Mixel" Dawes

Lead Writer at GameBlob

Gaming since the 8bit days on the BBC Micro, through Commodore Amiga and now console/PC/iOS. A big horror fan who spends his time drawing, running a webcomic, doing indie game design and enjoying his awesome family.

@MFDawes

Artist, Game designer, Horror fan, Gamer, Writer & Reviewer at http://GameBlob.net

Name your price, help charity, Alan Wake & all DLC by @remedygames during the Humble Weekly Sale! https://t.co/9ndz9Y4F57 via @humble - 2 days ago

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Michael "Mixel" Dawes

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