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The Stars and What They’re Worth
August 20, 2010No commentsYou’re searching for a game that’s worth your money and time; something that’s both entertaining and technically great. Game review sites are probably the first place you go to, and not the stores. You do a bit of research if the game you like to buy is worth buying, or you probably search for the highest rated game.
While consumer behavior does generally follow that pattern, we must remember that a 5-star rating doesn’t necessarily translate to an objective rating of a game. A 5-star or 4-star rating is usually based on the accumulated reviews on the game. This means that it’s mostly based on what the consumers have to say about the game and their own ratings of how great the game is. This generally works, but then, since people have different tastes. So what if the majority of those who had the time to give a review said the game is bad, just because it didn’t suit them?
Certain factors make a game more attractive to a certain segment of the population. Take for example the latest game from National Geographic, Contraband Mystery. Of course, it would be more appealing to the geeky and nerdy types who watch the Nat Geo Channel everyday when they get home. Those who didn’t want to be challenged would find it sluggish and too challenging.
Game reviews and ratings give consumers an idea of what the game is about and how other people, who have played the game, find the game. Was it exciting? Was it entertaining? Was it worth the cost? A lot of answers on questions about a certain game are found on game review sites. Most of the time, it influences the consumers decision making whether to purchase a game or not.
But word of mouth can only go so far. The best way to actually tell how good a game is to play the demo or trial version. That way, you would know if the game suits your tastes. Most game portals offer this for free. So go ahead, play. Sometimes a game’s worth is not written in the stars.
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