How to Become a Video Game Reviewer Today
Reviewing video games is a great way to express your opinions and let your voice be heard in the gaming community. Plus, it’s just plain fun. If you want to bring your enthusiasm for games to a professional level, then being a video game reviewer might be the perfect career for you. But how do you go about it? Read on as we explore the steps to take to become a successful video game reviewer today.
1. Play a Wide Variety of Games
The first rule for becoming a video game reviewer is the same as any other skill-based career. You need to practice and perfect your craft. Gaming today is so much more than just a shooter. We have indie games, mobile games, virtual reality and more. Be sure to try out a wide variety of different genres and platforms to get an idea of what kind of games you are passionate about reviewing.
2. Familiarize Yourself With the Language of Video Game Reviews
Before you start reviewing games, make sure you understand the language used to describe games. Video game reviews often rely on a combination of game statistics, technical and graphical details, and personal opinion. Knowing these terms will help you concisely and accurately communicate your thoughts on a game.
3. Connect With Other Video Game Reviewers
Making connections with other video game reviewers is a great way to learn the ropes and gain valuable feedback. Reach out to experienced video game reviewers and see if they would be willing to discuss their experiences and tips with you. You can also get to know the gaming community on review websites like Metacritic and Steams user review forums. This will help you understand the way that reviews are structured and interpreted so that you can write better reviews of your own.
4. Participate in Video Game Review Sites and Communities
Get involved in the conversation about game reviews by joining online game review sites and communities. Post your reviews on these sites and collect feedback from other users. You can also participate in individual forums, post comments on popular blogs, and actively engage with other gamers. This will help you build your reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable reviewer.
5. Get Certification in Video Game Review
Getting a recognized certification in video game review will help establish you as a qualified reviewer and improve your chances of landing a job. Take an online course or look for a local certification program to expand your knowledge of gaming, software and game industry standards. Certification shows potential employers that you’re serious about game reviewing and up to date on the latest trends.
6. Connect With Major Media Outlets and Publishers
Once you have a solid foundation in video game reviews, start reaching out to major media outlets and publishers. Doing so will increase your exposure as a game reviewer and potentially lead to a job offer. Make sure you have a portfolio of your reviews to showcase your skills, and look to connect with gaming journalists, publications, and websites in your network.
7. Prepare to Engage With AI-Based Video Games
Video game reviewing is evolving as AI technology continues to improve. As a reviewer, you need to familiarize yourself with AI-based games and prepare to analyze and critique game design using artificial intelligence. This will become increasingly important in the field of video game review in the years to come, and is an important step to consider if you want to stay ahead of the curve.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a video game reviewer takes a lot of practice and dedication, but the rewards can be great. Get in the habit of playing a wide variety of games, familiarize yourself with the language of video game reviews, and stay ahead of the trend by preparing for AI-based video games. Taking these steps will help ensure that you become a successful and respected video game reviewer in 2023. Good luck!