GameGeeked uses a 10-point scoring system, with 5 as the average score. This simplified system provides clarity while still allowing for meaningful distinctions between games. If you have any questions about our scoring, feel free to ask!
Completion Requirement
I require all games to be completed prior to review. Exceptions are made for broken games or major issues, but almost every game must be completed to ensure a thorough evaluation.
How I Score and Review Games
My reviews take into account a range of criteria, with different weight depending on the game. These typically include:
- Gameplay
- Writing
- Visuals
- Audio
- Multiplayer (if applicable)
Context Matters
Platform, genre, and developer intent are always considered. For example, a handheld game isn’t judged against a cutting edge PC title. I evaluate based on what’s reasonable for the platform and scope.
Expansions and Supplemental Content
Expansions and DLC are judged based on how well they enhance or complement the base game. Integration, value, and content quality are all taken into account.
Performance and Gameplay
Poor performance or broken gameplay is never excused. I use comparable games on the same platform or medium as benchmarks for quality.
Budget and Price Point
While I may mention price or budget limitations in the text, these factors do not influence the final score. A game’s value is noted, but quality comes first.
Review Policy for Online Games
For games with major online components, I will publish a Provisional Review first. A final score will only be assigned after evaluating the online experience in a live environment.
MMOs or multiplayer-only titles will not receive a final review until they’ve been tested under real-world conditions.
Finality and Updates
Scores reflect the state of the game at the time of review and are considered final. Significant updates may be mentioned, but the original score will remain unless a full re-review is warranted.
Focus on Indie Games
GameGeeked emphasizes indie titles, recognizing their unique ideas, limited resources, and creative risk-taking. I aim to evaluate indie games with an understanding of their constraints while still holding them to high standards.
Review Score Breakdown (0–10)
- 0.0 – 0.9 – Atrocious: Infamously bad; fundamentally broken.
- 1.0 – 1.9 – Awful: Reputationally harmful; very poor experience.
- 2.0 – 2.9 – Terrible: Riddled with issues; lacks polish and playability.
- 3.0 – 3.9 – Bad: Numerous poor design choices and major flaws.
- 4.0 – 4.9 – Mediocre: Bland or poorly executed ideas.
- 5.0 – 5.9 – Average: Functional but unremarkable; typical genre fare.
- 6.0 – 6.9 – Good: Solid mechanics with enjoyable elements.
- 7.0 – 7.9 – Very Good: Stands out within its genre; worth playing.
- 8.0 – 8.9 – Great: Well-crafted, memorable, and impactful.
- 9.0 – 9.9 – Amazing: Highly recommended; exceptional in most areas.
- 10 – Classic: Genre-defining and timeless; rarely awarded.
For further details on my review policies, please refer to the Ethics and Standards Policy.
TL;DR – GameGeeked Review Policy
- I use a 0–10 scoring system, with 5 as the average.
- I complete games before reviewing (unless broken).
- I judge based on gameplay, writing, visuals, audio, and multiplayer (if applicable).
- Platform, genre, and developer intent matter—I don’t compare apples to oranges.
- Online-heavy games get a provisional review until tested live.
- Indie games get special attention—I highlight innovation, not just budget.
- Poor performance is never excused.
- Price and budget don’t affect the score, but may be discussed.
- Final scores reflect the state of the game at review time.
- 10 = Classic, 5 = Average, 0 = Atrocious.