8 Comments
User's avatar
Jess's avatar

Some reviews are absolute gems. I was searching through Goodreads and found a review that I have committed to memory.

The book: What the River Knows

The review: The river doesn’t know sh*t.

Expand full comment
Frank Lantz's avatar

Very well said.

Expand full comment
Ryan K. Rigney's avatar

That means a great deal coming from you!

Expand full comment
James Francis's avatar

I love reading Steam reviews too. Steam reviews are worth more than any media outlet. I think only streaming influencers have more clout.

Expand full comment
Christina Knauf's avatar

Did you play Twelve Minutes? Every time Blue Prince comes up somewhere I feel myself reminded of this game that I remember to be one of THE most controversial (indie) games. And I hated it, for similar reasons even. But there are people who enjoyed the hell out of it and who am I to judge? So thank you. I will try Blue Prince even though I hated Twelve Minutes. Maybe even because of that reason.

Expand full comment
Harrison Polites's avatar

I love this take on Blue Prince. When I researched, I also saw that some of the Steam Reviews were bonkers. But it's kinda par for the course these days.

As a reviewer, I'm occasionally guilty of falling into the trap of saying: 'I didn't like it, but you might'. Seeing it called out here, I'll be more aware of it. So thanks!

That said, unless its an absolute trash fire, I don't think I'd outright pan something either -- even though I've seen reviews with spicer headlines rate a lot better in terms of traffic.

So much effort -- as much as half a decade of time -- goes into making great games. It takes me less than five hours to write a thought-out review. Perhaps its my empathy getting in the way, but just doesn't feel great to rip a game a new one either. Balance likely comes with experience I guess?

Expand full comment
Ryan K. Rigney's avatar

Your review was the best I read, for what it's worth!

Expand full comment
Harrison Polites's avatar

That’s very kind! Thank you!

Expand full comment