Contest Prequel... PREPARE YOURSELF

[digitalpress]

I've got some valuable game-related items burning a hole in my basement floor. They've gotta go, but they're not just going to anyone. You have to earn this one.

For this contest you will need to prepare a little bit.

Pick a game, any game. Any system, any era, any company, any genre. It should be something you positively love playing or know a whole lot about. Brush up on it, study it, research it. Because to WIN this contest, you will need to present the "most informative" game review.

You know those rating systems that say "was this review helpful"? Well if YOUR review is the MOST helpful, you win. There will be a second and third-place prize, but the winner is going to get something REALLY special. I will announce this along with the details of when and where and how in the next few days. I'm posting this now so you can think about what you'll choose as your entry and get a head start on this one.

Prepare yourself! Details to follow.

[Funk Buddy]

Man I stink at details and my review skills suck bad. :( Oh well, there's always next time.

[digitalpress]

Man I stink at details and my review skills suck bad. :( Oh well, there's always next time.

If I had a dime for every time someone has said that and then surprised me with a fantastic review, I'd be a rich man.

If you love a game - truly love it - it will show through in your review. You need a few basic writing skills but it's not how you write it, it's what you write that matters.

When I announce the details I'll offer some hints that will guide you along as well. This isn't meant to be a review exclusive for "writers", it's one for avid gamers. I think everyone here qualifies.

[Balloon Fight]

Ill definitely try it. Basically what you want is a strategy guide/review format?

[Ed Oscuro]

What sort of detail are we talking about? Would it be helpful if the review had a detailed analysis of the game audio's use of the DAC versus YM2612? The answer to that question should also solve all the other questions I could throw out otherwise...

[digitpress Jim]

Most EXCELLENT!!! count me in, I can't wait to write up a review. I love all Video Games so it will be easy picking one. Fantastic contest Joe. :D :rocker: :D :rocker:

[digitalpress]

Would it be helpful if the review had a detailed analysis of the game audio's use of the DAC versus YM2612?

Uhh... no.

But explaining where a character like Opa Opa came from, or why YARS spelled backwards is RAYS is important or that if you look just above the city skyline from Pioneer 2 you can see an Atari logo or when you fire 21 shots before hitting the saucer you get the max possible bonus... those kinds of details would be helpful.

Don't worry, I'll give some tips, but think about what you look for in a really detailed review as a GAMER and you'll be well on your way to victory.

[Raccoon Lad]

I've got the perfect candidate; SNAIL MAZE!!!!!

[scooterb23]

Great timing...just as I was finishing up my Strategy Guide for PONG!!!

I'll ace this contest, no problem :D

[ubersaurus]

I have a few games in mind...I may have to give this a go.

[punkoffgirl]

So, who's going to be judging all of these?

[MarioAllStar2600]

YAY! lol, contests are fun. I am looking foward to this,and I will actually be participating.

[Jorpho]

Do they have to be original reviews, not previously published online or elsewhere in any form? I used up my best material years ago, I'm afraid.

[Ed Oscuro]

I think you know the answer to that one, Jorpho :D

My question...could it be a review of a game as compared to its predecessor?

[Ascending Wordsmith]

Well, since this contest has emerged, can I make my Smash TV review I sent you as my entry? :D :D :D

Just kidding. It looks like I'll be writing another review. Can I be a judge? Huh? Can I? Huh? I promise I won't accept any bribes... this time.

[Gamereviewgod]

I'd also gladly judge this one.

[digitalpress]

My question...could it be a review of a game as compared to its predecessor?

I'm sorry - I don't understand this question.

As for judges, I'll PM those I've had in mind.

I wanted to get this underway today but we'll have to start it tomorrow. There will be plenty of time to do the review, I'm thinking we'll go with a two week deadline.

Stay tuned.

[Ed Oscuro]

I'll gladly restate the question. Would it be alright if we compared two games in a series-- X and X 2, for example.

[Jorpho]

I think you know the answer to that one, Jorpho :D

I do?

[Ed Oscuro]

Would hardly be fair. 'sides, you've got two weeks to work on one.

Though I suppose that college "reuse my papers" attitude has its benefits... :evil: