Scoring systems are certainly controversial, and there's not a video game section out there that seems appropriate without one. As such, all gaming reviews on Blogcritics will use a simple scoring system. The scores break down as:

- Junk

- Fair

- Average

- Great

- Superb

1. Why are you introducing a scoring system?
There are multiple reasons, including benefits for the site. Additionally, this also benefits readers who may want to skim a review quickly and still have a general idea of what the writer was trying to convey. The text is always the single most important aspect of any piece, but the scoring system is there for those low on time.

2. Why are there not separate scores for different categories (i.e., graphics, sound, etc)?
There are multiple reasons. The first is that heading into another generation of game consoles, graphics and sound are so advanced, there is no need to look at them individually. There are of course instances where they can factor into the game play (bad frame rates, annoying voice actors), but in the end, it all comes down to the game play itself.

Second is to offer freedom to our writers. If we're scoring separate categories, then the reviewer must follow a format to ensure that each section is discussed, and most of the time in thick detail. Now, they can write as they wish with no restrictions and touch on the parts that matter.

Much like the overall scoring system itself, it also helps readers in that each review has a different feel. Most gaming magazines and websites are dull because they follow a pattern (usually beginning with game play, to graphics, to audio, and so on). Each review on Blogcritics will feel like the writer's own, not just a forced template with text.

3. Why no half stars?
This is an area of understandable debate, but one without merit. When it comes down to it, would you really purchase a game (or any other item for that matter) if it were scored a 3.5 instead of a 3? That half star has no bearing on the outcome. A 3.5 would be just as average as a 3 when score is handed down. The same can be said for other scoring systems that attempt to show range with oddball scores like 8.7 and the like. In the end, the entire system is watered down and convoluted. Five stars keep the rating easy to understand, plus does not overshadow the review itself.