So I thought I'd asked for advice: I've been thinking about writing a review for a game for a while now, but not being that much of a writer, I'm not really sure how to make it without coming across as amateurish. Can anyone who has had experience with writing them give a few pointers on what and what not to do?
funny that you ask this as I was just thinking of video reviews (I know you said writing).
Video reviews/articles on tabletop gaming are nearly impossible for me to watch... I don't know why. I think there's this preponderance to make these 8-12 minute reviews covering everything.. but having come mostly from only watching movie and video game reviews my entire life.. I have no patience for tabletop reviewers to go over every asset, mechanic, etc in a tabletop game.
Then you have written reviews.. which are usually readable and well written.. but often come off as basically explanations of the game.. without a lot of "this is what I liked, this is what I disliked". Note I'm talking about gaming sites.. not like BGG posts.
I actually find it very difficult finding a good review outlet for tabletop gaming. And that's not a criticism. More of a frustration. I'm not going to criticize people talking passionately (and in great depth) about a game they love (or hate). Nor am I going to criticize people making things more accessible and objective (even if sounding like marketing).
Just weird that for video games I can usually find around 6-7 trusted succinct reviews giving opinions (maybe the same, maybe opposing) for a game.. movies like 1000 opinions (mostly succinct), but for games.. it's either a broad overview of the game.. or like some impassioned 15 minute thesis.
You can still preorder it!
https://app.crowdox.com/projects/617871702/agents-of-mayhem-pride-of-babylon
I, too, was disappointed that we didn't end up getting the full selection of Agents, seeing as I was the lead Agent designer. :(
The mechanics in the board game are really cool, though.
man I wish you hadn't linked that. :P Saw this at GenCon... between the actual three dimensions and the procedurally generated missions/levels.. this looks outstanding. really need to pull back though, between GenCon spending and hitting both Cthulhu Death May Die and Batman GCC in the last two weeks.