Review of Reviewers

Recent trash talk has got me mulling over the different reviewers that post here (and elsewhere) and about the different styles of writing in general. I've tried my hand a few short reviews but I’m too lazy and too inept to do it with any frequency. Also, I chafe at the thought of contributing anything actually useful which might detract from my troll status.

It is interesting to see personalities shine through the writing but it also apparent that there are certain styles that people adopt. So for your consideration I will review the reviewers. Or more precisely types of reviewers:

Just the facts ma'am. This type of reviewer is going to concentrate on presenting an overview of the game as concisely as possible. Personal opinion is mostly absent and the mundane mechanics of the game are glossed over as the critic highlights the most important parts of the game.

-Strong, weak, or innovative points are highlighted.

-succint

- weak 7.5

The Outsider
The outsider has a different perspective and is sure to let you know about it. He does not share popular opinion. He is different. He makes a point of separating himself from the Establishment (tm) and the Man (tm.)  Popular opinion is anathema to him since he must be contrary. An edgy and worldly demeanor is essential to pull off the outsider.

The Maverick
The maverick is much like the outsider-Less edgy, but faster with the one liner.  F:AT is sick with mavericks (myself included)  The review is characterized by glib prose and witty references. You'll learn as much about the writers' BBQ preferences and favorite type of scotch (or RUM!) as you will about the game. The maverick has got to convince you he's hip and funny or else his whole persona is blown. That is ok, if anyone calls him out (or goes Loter on his ass) he can always become an outsider.

The Philosopher
Games ast art.
Games as a metaphor
Anything but games as games.
The philosopher is intensely interested in the intellectual qualities of games and the gaming experience. This person can go toe to toe with the most verbose overblown BGGer and still keep debating. Gaming is more than just having fun, it has meaning. The philosopher will be able to cite and compare myriad games as a connoisseur compares wines. He may even play a few.

The Good Guy
He was always such a nice boy. We hardly ever heard him make any noise...
The good guy is just laying it out for you. He's humorous without being offensive, smart without being pompous and delivers his review in an easy going patter that makes you think your sipping beers and chatting with the boys. He’ll placidly go over game play, components and rules then wrap it all up with a tidy little summary.

 Steve"the cyniccritic"Avery