Video Game Journalism Demystified (page 2 of 2)

4. Game journalists can't write original content.

The observation: game journalists write top 10 lists to no end, they slam Jack Thompson, and they overuse the word "suck" when describing a "new" feature. There's no way to sugar coat this charge -- sadly, it's often true. Original writing is lacking in video game reporting. That's not to say list stories don't have their place (hopefully this list is one of those places), but some fresh thought would be nice. Still, cliched writing isn't the fault of any one individual or publication; it's our entire culture that consistently rewards familiarity (think of the countless sequels). Hopefully game writing gets more sophisticated in time. We think it will.

The Verdict: Guilty... but we're working on it! Readers, let us know "how our driving" is, and look for quality game writers already in existence to lead the way.



3. Reviewers actually finish the games they're reviewing.

In a perfect world, this would always happen. But in a world where some games take 100+ hours to complete (if ever), the expectation that reviewers must finish a game before passing judgment is just unrealistic. A movie takes two hours to watch; a CD one hour; and a book a weekend. Given the complex nature of video games, the important thing is to determine whether a specific audience would enjoy the game in question based on its merits and price. That may, or may not, include storyline or plot elements, which would be the only reason gamers could legitimately cry foul when dealing with reviews of an unfinished game.

The Verdict: Despite what you may think, a large portion of games do get reviewed before being finished. However, completing a game isn't always imperative to the review process when determining the quality of play.



2. Reporters only ask softball questions in interviews.

The idea that journalists usually ask softball questions in interviews is perhaps an extension of number two from this very list. Assuming journalists build good rapport with certain gaming personalities, it can be difficult to ask a pressing question that could be interpreted as overly aggressive or lacking in manners. "Ballsy questions are good, but only if you get information," says Sid Shuman, news and feature editor for GamePro. Balancing tough questions with the goal in getting gaming execs to disclose new information can be a tough line to walk. Ultimately, interviewers should be responsible with questions and treat interviewees fairly while getting the important information out for gamers.

The Verdict: It depends. But in remembering who the interview is for (read: gamers), journalists will be in a better position to extract the pertinent information without letting an existing relationship or regard get in the way.



1. The gaming media just play games all day long.

False. We write (and talk) all day, and we rather enjoy it. If we wanted to play games all day long we would have been professional gamers on the Major League Gaming tour or washed-up somewhere in our parents' basement.

The Verdict: Couldn't be further from the truth, though game journalism has its perks like any rewarding profession. Remember: the more we write the more coverage you get. We like it that way and we suspect you do, too.

Have a question you'd like answered about video game journalism? Ask the GamePros in the comments below. We promise we won't dodge 'em (provided we can answer them).

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blah456

Great article. I'm doing a term paper on this profession , and wanted to know what policies or code of ethics (if any) this profession regards you follow.
Thanks a lot! :)

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