Standout examples of video game review blog post examples (and how to write your own)

Start with real examples of video game review blog post examples

Before you worry about scoring systems or fancy layouts, it helps to see how different writers actually do it. Some of the best examples of video game review blog post examples don’t come from giant magazines, but from individual writers who’ve figured out a clear angle and a consistent style.

Think of these as templates you can borrow and remix, not rigid rules. As you read each example of a review style below, ask yourself three questions:

• Who is this written for?
• What does the writer focus on first?
• How do they back up their opinions?

Keep those in mind as we walk through specific, modern examples.

Example of a classic outlet review: IGN’s big-budget release coverage

When most people picture a “game review,” they’re picturing something like an IGN or GameSpot article. These are some of the most visible examples of video game review blog post examples on the internet.

A typical IGN review of a major release (say, a 2024 blockbuster RPG) usually:

• Opens with a strong, opinionated hook: a one- or two-sentence summary that clearly says whether the game works.
• Sets expectations fast: genre, platform, and how long the reviewer spent playing.
• Breaks the review into clear sections like Story, Gameplay, Graphics & Performance, and Accessibility.
• Ends with a short verdict paragraph and a score.

Why this style works:

• It’s scannable. Readers can jump to the section they care about.
• The verdict is obvious. No one leaves wondering, “So… did they like it?”
• It balances subjective opinion with concrete details: frame rates, modes, bugs, and so on.

If you’re looking for an example of a traditional, magazine-style review format, this is it. For your own blog, you can borrow the structure and ditch the score if numbers don’t fit your voice.

Example of a personal blog review: cozy, opinionated, and niche

On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find solo bloggers writing deeply personal reviews of smaller games. These often end up being some of the best examples of video game review blog post examples because they feel human and specific.

A strong personal blog review might:

• Start with a short story: how the writer found the game, or what kind of week they were having when they played it.
• Focus on feelings first, features second. Instead of listing mechanics, the writer explains how the game made them feel.
• Use fewer subheadings and more flowing paragraphs.
• Talk openly about mental health, stress, or relaxation, especially with cozy or narrative games.

This style works especially well for:

• Indie games on Steam or itch.io
• Cozy games like Stardew Valley-style titles
• Narrative games where story matters more than graphics

If you want an example of a review that builds a relationship with readers, look for these smaller blogs and newsletters. They show how you can write for a small, loyal audience instead of chasing search traffic alone.

Example of a short, punchy review: built for busy readers

Not everyone has time to read a 3,000-word breakdown. Some of the most effective examples of video game review blog post examples are short, sharp, and to the point.

A tight, 600–800 word review usually:

• Leads with a one-sentence verdict that could stand alone as a tweet or post.
• Boils the game down to three or four main strengths and weaknesses.
• Uses quick, vivid descriptions instead of long explanations.
• Ends with a clear recommendation: buy at launch, wait for a sale, or skip.

This style is ideal for:

• Live-service games that change frequently
• Annual sports titles where readers mainly want to know, “Is this year worth it?”
• Time-poor readers who just want a fast answer

If you’re experimenting, write one long review and then challenge yourself to rewrite it as a short version. You’ll learn what really matters.

Example of a longform “deep dive” review: essays for game nerds

Some readers love detail. They want to know how the combat system evolved from the last entry, what the soundtrack is referencing, and how the game fits into the history of its genre. For them, the best examples of video game review blog post examples look more like essays than product reviews.

A longform review might:

• Run 2,000–4,000 words or more.
• Mix review and criticism: not just “Is this good?” but “What is this game trying to say?”
• Include context from older games, film, or literature.
• Use fewer headings and more narrative flow.

You’ll often see this style on sites that focus on criticism and culture, or on personal blogs where the writer is clearly obsessed with the subject. If your readers enjoy analysis, this example of a review style lets you stretch out and show your thinking.

Examples include accessibility-focused and player-wellness reviews

In 2024–2025, readers expect more than just graphics and frame rates. They want to know whether they can actually play the game comfortably. Some of the most valuable modern examples of video game review blog post examples focus heavily on accessibility and player health.

An accessibility-conscious review might:

• List accessibility options: subtitles, colorblind modes, remappable controls, difficulty settings.
• Talk about how readable the UI is on different screens.
• Mention motion blur, camera shake, and options to reduce motion sickness.
• Discuss whether the game can be played in short sessions or demands long, uninterrupted stretches.

This isn’t just a nice extra. Organizations like the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) provide age ratings and content descriptors so parents and players can make informed choices about violence, language, and more (esrb.org). A thoughtful review that references ratings and accessibility options helps readers decide if a game fits their household, their body, and their time.

You can also fold in basic wellness considerations. For example, if a game encourages very long sessions with no natural stopping points, say so. Guidance from health organizations like the National Institutes of Health (nih.gov) often emphasizes balancing screen time with sleep and physical activity. A quick nod to that in your review can make your writing more responsible without turning it into a lecture.

Example of a live-service or ongoing-review format

With live-service games, a single static review can go out of date fast. Some of the best examples of video game review blog post examples for these titles use an evolving format.

A good ongoing-review approach:

• Publishes an initial “launch review” with a clear date.
• Updates the post after major patches or seasons.
• Adds a short “What’s new in 2025” section at the top so returning readers see changes immediately.
• Adjusts the recommendation over time, especially if the business model or grind changes.

You’ll see this with popular multiplayer games, MMOs, and competitive shooters. If you’re covering a game like this, treat your article like a living document rather than a one-and-done review.

Example of a genre-specific review: horror, sports, and cozy games

Another way to think about examples of video game review blog post examples is by genre. Different genres demand different priorities.

For horror games, readers care about:

• Atmosphere and tension more than raw difficulty.
• Audio design: are headphones recommended, or is it overwhelming?
• Content warnings for gore, jump scares, or disturbing themes.

For sports games, they want to know:

• What’s actually new compared to last year.
• How online modes feel in real play, not just marketing promises.
• Whether microtransactions affect fairness.

For cozy and simulation games, they’re looking for:

• Relaxing gameplay loops.
• Low-pressure progression.
• Comfort features like autosave, pause-anywhere, and flexible controls.

When you study a strong example of a genre-specific review, you’ll notice the writer puts those genre priorities front and center, often in the first few paragraphs. Borrow that instinct.

Example of a user-focused review: helping parents, teachers, and non-gamers

Not every review is for hardcore players. Some of the most helpful examples of video game review blog post examples are written for parents, teachers, or adults who don’t play much themselves.

These reviews often:

• Explain mechanics in plain language, avoiding jargon.
• Reference the game’s rating and what that rating actually means.
• Talk about online interaction: voice chat, text chat, and reporting tools.
• Offer guidance on screen time and in-game purchases.

For background on youth media use and health, reviewers sometimes reference research from organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org) or public-health resources hosted on CDC.gov (cdc.gov) when talking about balance, sleep, or physical activity. You don’t need to turn your blog into a medical site, but signaling awareness of these concerns builds trust with non-gamer readers.

If you want to reach a broader audience, this example of a review style is worth studying.

How to borrow from the best examples without copying

Looking at examples of video game review blog post examples is only step one. The real value comes from turning those patterns into your own repeatable format.

Here’s a simple way to do that:

Pick your core structure.
Choose one of the example formats above—classic outlet, personal blog, short review, or longform essay—as your default. Commit to it for at least a few posts so readers know what to expect.

Write for one reader.
Decide who you’re talking to: a busy parent, a competitive player, a cozy-game fan. Let that imaginary reader guide what you include and what you skip.

Lead with a verdict.
Every strong example of a review makes its opinion obvious. Put a clear, opinionated sentence near the top: “This is the best platformer I’ve played since Celeste,” or “Fun combat can’t save this messy story.”

Back opinions with specifics.
Instead of saying, “The controls are bad,” explain what happens: input lag, confusing button mapping, or poor camera behavior.

Mention accessibility and content.
Follow the lead of modern examples and add a short section or paragraph on accessibility options, content rating, and online interaction. That’s now standard, not extra.

End with a clear recommendation.
Tell readers what you’d actually do with your own money and time: buy, wishlist, wait for a sale, subscribe, or skip.

Once you’ve written a few reviews using this approach, go back and compare them to your favorite real examples. You’ll start to see where your voice shines and where you’re still imitating.

FAQ: examples of video game review blog post examples

What are some good examples of video game review blog post examples to study?
Look at a mix: big outlets like IGN or GameSpot for structured, section-based reviews; smaller blogs or Substack newsletters for personal, story-driven takes; and longform criticism sites for essay-style reviews. Studying several examples side by side helps you decide what fits your own voice.

How long should a video game review be?
There’s no single right length. Many strong examples of reviews fall between 800 and 1,800 words, but short 500-word snapshots and long 3,000-word essays both work if they match your audience and the game. Focus on answering the questions your reader actually has instead of chasing a word count.

Do I need a score or rating system?
Not necessarily. Some of the best examples of video game review blog post examples use numbers or letter grades, while others rely on a clear, written verdict. If you do use scores, explain what they mean and stay consistent.

What’s an example of a good review introduction?
A strong intro usually combines a quick verdict with a bit of context. For example: “After 40 hours with Dragon Saga 2 on PlayStation 5, I’m convinced it’s the best combat system the series has ever had—but its uneven story kept me from loving it outright.” In two clauses, you’ve told the reader what you played, how long, and how you feel.

How do I make my reviews more helpful for parents or non-gamers?
Borrow from user-focused examples: explain jargon, mention the ESRB rating and what it covers, describe online interaction, and offer a quick note on time commitment and in-game purchases. A couple of sentences can make your review much more accessible to people outside the gaming world.

Use these examples of video game review blog post examples as a toolbox, not a script. Try one style, tweak it, and pay attention to what your readers respond to. Over time, your reviews will stop sounding like anyone else’s—and start sounding like you.