So, I've been trying to write regular reviews for Giantbomb for a while.  I think these reviews allow me to sharpen up my writing skills during those times when I'm not doing much writing.  Plus, I find writing about games to be a lot of fun.  That said, I think it might make sense if I were to clarify what I mean by the scores I give my games.  But, before I do so, I just want to say one thing; these scores are arbitrary.  What I really think about the game is in the text review.  I look at scores as something that I have to do in order for my reviews to be looked at.  I understand why we have to score games with 'stars' but a score doesn't explain what is good or bad about a game.  
 
So, the score system I have to use is the Giantbomb star system.  Scores are made from 1 star to 5 stars, 5 stars being the highest rating.  Below, I will attempt to give an explanation for what is meant by each rating.
 
1 Star
A 1 star game is a game that is literally, or almost literally, unplayable, based on a terrible concept, has horrendous gameplay mechanics and controls, is technically incompetent, has absolutely no artistic styling, and is a bad monetary deal.
 
2 Stars
A 2 star game is a game that is at least a competent game technically and artistically and may be based on a competent concept.  But the game either lacks competent gameplay mechanics, or to few competent mechanics, and is still not worthy of a full-retail purchase.
 
3 Stars
A 3 star game is a game that is competent as a game technically, artistically, and from a gameplay perspective and is based on a solid, or novel, concept.  But it lacks something that would make it a guaranteed purchase.  It is to short, to buggy, to unfocused, or something else along those lines.  This is a game that is a full-retail purchase for those that know they will like the game.  Those that are unsure should rent or wait for a price drop.
 
4 Stars
A 4 star game is a game that exceeds technically, artistically, and from a gameplay perspective and is based on a solid, or novel, concept.  It is definitely worth a purchase especially if you were interested in the game in the first place.  However, there is some nagging issues that hold it back from being perfect.
 
5 Stars
A 5 star game is a perfect game.  It is a game that is good to great technically, artistically, and from a gameplay perspective.  But, above all else, is, without a doubt, worth a purchase regardless of the price.  This game is a great monetary deal.