I feel like the initial Polygon review is extremely dishonest. No, not the part where they really enjoyed the experience that others have raised issues about. Reviewing is subjective. However, not reviewing the retail copy in a post launch environment is dishonest. Like Alex said, anyone who knows about games knew that this would launch with issues. It's impossible for it to not have a few. Since the game requires connectivity to play, you can't review the game in a vacuum (or controlled review environment) and present that as the actual score. That product is not a game a normal person could buy, and that experience is not the same that a normal person could have.
A more honest review would have stated they are waiting until at least a day after to release to give a final verdict, based on the playing experience a user might have. They also should have warned against pre-ordering in general. Is that pessimistic? Yes. Is it possibly hurting the developers for things not necessarily in their control? Yes. But the review is supposed to be for the consumer.
I understand that the way hits work, most people will look at reviews prior and near launch, so that's the best time to reach the most people. When it turns out your review is not material to the actual product in question, though, this hurts the most people.
Log in to comment