Gaming News and Blogs Your Guide to the Best Video Game Websites

Introduction

Hundreds of video games are released every year, making it impossible to play them all. So how do you know which games are worth your time? The answer lies in staying up-to-date with the latest gaming news and reviews. In this article, we will explore the best game review sites and video game news sites on the internet that can help you make informed decisions about which games to play.

The Flaws of Mainstream Gaming Sites

Video game journalism has faced numerous ethical challenges over the past decade. Some well-known gaming websites have been embroiled in collusion, undisclosed financial ties, and cronyism, among other unethical practices. Furthermore, many gaming sites have shifted their focus away from reviewing games based on gameplay and quality, instead prioritizing social and political issues or allowing authors to treat articles like personal blogs. Some sites have even expanded their coverage to include other forms of entertainment, which has diminished their gaming content.

It is important to research these issues and draw your own conclusions about whether you want to follow mainstream gaming sites. Instead of relying solely on the reputation of a site, pay attention to the individual writers and their perspectives. The quality of content can vary greatly among authors at different sites, so it is essential to find reviewers whose opinions align with your own.

The Best Game Review Sites and Video Game News Sites

1. Destructoid

Destructoid is a comprehensive gaming site that covers a wide range of topics. It publishes regular articles, including news posts, reviews, and features. The site provides updates on specific games, previews of upcoming releases, and opinion pieces. Destructoid reviews console and PC games, as well as mobile titles and DLC. The reviews are straightforward, and the site's scoring system helps readers understand how games are rated. With its video content and community forums, Destructoid is a solid choice for any gamer.

2. GamesRadar+

GamesRadar+ offers a balanced mix of content, including news, reviews, features, and hands-on looks at new games. The site covers games on various platforms, and you can find reviews and guides for your favorite system. GamesRadar+ takes its time with reviews and doesn't rush them out, ensuring thoughtful and comprehensive coverage. The reviews feature clear Pros/Cons lists and verdict summaries, making them easy to skim. Overall, GamesRadar+ is a valuable resource for staying informed about gaming news.

3. Game Informer

Game Informer is a long-standing video game magazine that also has a website. Unlike other gaming websites that cover multiple forms of entertainment, Game Informer focuses solely on games. The site provides news, previews, reviews, and features. The staff at Game Informer are passionate gamers, and their professional approach to game coverage is evident. The site's reviews summarize games with a numerical rating, providing a concise overview. Game Informer may not review every game, but the content they do cover is excellent, and there are no political biases to worry about.

4. Metacritic

Metacritic If you prefer a quick summary of a game's quality, Metacritic is a useful resource. While not a review website itself, Metacritic aggregates scores from various game review sites, similar to Rotten Tomatoes for movies. Simply search for a game, and you'll see a weighted score from 1 to 100. You can click through to read individual reviews or compare critic scores with user reviews. While a single number may not fully capture a game's quality, Metacritic is a good starting point for research. For an alternative to Metacritic, consider using OpenCritic, which addresses some of the concerns people have with Metacritic's scoring system.

5. Nintendo Life

Nintendo Life is a must-visit website for Nintendo enthusiasts. The site specializes in covering the Nintendo Switch, eShop, and related topics. It offers reviews, news, features, and original videos. Nintendo Life stands out with its comprehensive guides, providing help for major games and covering downloadable eShop titles as well as mainstream releases. The site has a vibrant community in its forums and comment sections, making it an ideal destination for Nintendo fans. For similar sites dedicated to other platforms, check out Push Square for PlayStation news and Pure Xbox for Xbox coverage.

6. GameSpot

GameSpot is a well-known gaming site that is worth a visit. Its homepage features popular and recent news, along with lists of upcoming games and recent reviews. The site reviews games of all sizes and popularity on every platform. GameSpot also offers video shows and forums for connecting with other gamers. While there may be occasional quirks in their reviews, such as writers admitting they didn't play through the entire game, GameSpot provides a summary of what the reviewer experienced, ensuring transparency. Overall, it is a reliable resource for gaming news and reviews.

7. Christ Centered Gamer

Despite having an obvious predisposition, Christ Centered Gamer has received praise for its clear and unbiased reviews. The site separates its reviews into two scores: one for the game's technical aspects, such as gameplay and controls, and the other for the game's morality, considering factors like language and sexual content. If you are a person of faith or want more information about video games for your children beyond basic age ratings, Christ Centered Gamer's morality score can be helpful. However, if you don't share these concerns, you can still enjoy the site's quality reviews on their own merits.

User-Written Game Reviews

In addition to professional publications, there are numerous online resources for user-written game reviews. These reviews offer subjective opinions from everyday players, allowing you to gather multiple perspectives. Some popular platforms for user reviews include:

1. YouTube: Many individuals create video reviews of games on YouTube, providing gameplay footage and their opinions. Watching these videos can give you a better sense of a game before making a purchase. Explore the best YouTube game review channels to find content that aligns with your interests.

2. GameFAQs: Aside from being a reliable source for game walkthroughs, GameFAQs also features user reviews. Search for a game and check its Reviews tab to see what other players thought about it. These reviews vary in structure and content, reflecting the opinions and priorities of individual users.

3. Steam: Steam, a popular gaming platform, has a convenient review system that allows players to share their thoughts on games. Scroll down on a game's page to find user reviews. You can filter reviews based on their positivity or negativity, the amount of time the reviewer played the game, and other criteria. Steam reviews also feature a graph showing the trend of reviews over time.

The Best Video Game Websites for Gaming News and Blogs

While there are many gaming websites available, not all of them provide reliable and unbiased information. The sites mentioned in this article have been chosen for their quality content and lack of ethical concerns. It is also recommended to find Twitch streamers whose opinions align with your own, as they offer consistent voices and real-time gameplay experiences.

By staying informed through these trustworthy sources, you can make informed decisions about which games are worth your time and money. Whether you prefer professional reviews or user-written opinions, there are plenty of resources available to help you navigate the vast world of video games.