In an age when journalism is about generating page hits to drive up income via advertising, the need to keep the developer / publisher sweet is more evident than ever.

Mainstream journalists are not only hampered by the need not to distance developer / publisher, they are also unwilling to say anything that may alienate their readership – of which they want and need a diverse bunch.

In previews for the biggest games we are told everything is shaping up for an amazing experience. Then when the game is released either the truth comes out, or we are given a generously optimistic review.

While mainstream journalism is perceived as more credible, the willingness of game developer / publisher to use independent websites is eroding this.

Gamers now have the ability to express their own opinions through a variety of different ways. The number of opinions available then allows the consumer of game journalism to find the voice(s) that best reflects their own views and preferences.

While IGN pursues it’s pointless flamebait Grudge matches, a Youtube reviewer will find an inventive way to review games as objectively as they can.

Choice is the best form of competition and technology has allowed journalism in all media to become open source. In time the preview code that journalists get will be available to all, because one thing that will never change in sales and marketing, is the strength of ‘word of mouth.’

Popularity: 1% [?]

Related posts:

1. How DS Stole the Tokyo Game Show
2. The Great Game Robbery : Game Pricing Is Evolving
3. Heavy Rain Changing the Game Forecast
4. The Don’s top 10 Lamest Video Game Commercials