Best of the Year, If Not EVER
10 - The Best of the Best. Not only is this a serious contender for Game of the Year, but it will be fondly recalled as one of the greatest games of all time. Absolutely flawless in every way.
9 - Very Nearly Perfect. Very few video games are better than this, and only one or two trivial quirks kept it from the very top.
Superb
8 - Excellent. Despite some minor quibbles, this is a title hardcore and casual gamers alike will gain much enjoyment from.
7 - Damn Good. A good, if not slightly flawed, representation of the medium. A few more months in development or testing would have pushed this one up a notch.
Worthwhile
6 - Good. While far from perfect, if one can overlook the developer's missteps they'll find an enjoyable game within.
5 - Average. There are worse games on the market, but this definitely could have been better. Several flaws mar gameplay, but overall there's some enjoyment to be had.
So-So
4 - Unexceptional. Hardcore fans of the series and/or genre might find something of merit here, but most gamers are advised to spend their money elsewhere.
3 - Weak. This game is lacking in nearly every regard. How this monstrosity made it past the testers and onto store shelves is a mystery that's overshadowed by the dreadful gameplay and graphics.
Bad
2 - Seriously Flawed. Very few video games are worse than this, and only one or two trivial bright spots kept it from the very bottom.
1- Terrible. This is not only a stain on the reputations of the developer and publisher, but it is a slap in the face to gamers the world over. There is absolutely nothing of value here.
