The concept of gamers leaving their own reviews on Metacritic seems promising in theory. However, this practice frequently results in negative campaigns known as review bombing.
Review bombing occurs when players post a slew of negative comments about a game shortly after its release, typically influenced by trivial grievances stemming from personal bias rather than actual gameplay experiences.
Despite pushback from the gaming community and industry efforts to curb such behavior, review bombs continue to impact game ratings. In this article, we explore some of the most significant examples of review bombing in gaming history.
10 Mass Effect 3
The Controversial Ending
No discussion of review bombs is complete without mentioning Mass Effect 3. As the climax of a beloved sci-fi trilogy, the game’s ending stirred much debate among players who felt that their choices throughout the series were rendered meaningless.
BioWare’s attempt to satisfy a diverse fan base ultimately resulted in widespread dissatisfaction, leaving many players feeling that their choices led to an unsatisfactory conclusion—merely different colors of a singular outcome.
9 Spore
DRM Backlash
Review bombing is not a recent phenomenon, as evidenced by Spore, released in 2008. Gamers were enraged over its stringent digital rights management (DRM) restrictions, which limited installations to just three.
This felt like an infringement on ownership rights, igniting fears that players were merely renting titles rather than owning them outright. This concern has only intensified in today’s digital landscape, where ownership remains a contentious issue.
8 Titan Souls
Backlash From YouTube Fans
Upon its 2015 launch, Titan Souls received decent scores, hovering in the mid-70s on Metacritic—an average review standing. However, following a comment from popular YouTuber TotalBiscuit who stated the game wasn’t to his liking, a backlash erupted.
As a result, his dedicated fanbase began bombarding the game with negative reviews, provoking an uncalled-for response to a mere opinion. TotalBiscuit later expressed his discontent with this reaction, highlighting how fan fervor can sometimes lead to misguided actions.
7 Star Wars: Battlefront II
The Microtransaction Controversy
The excitement surrounding the revival of Star Wars: Battlefront quickly turned to disappointment with its 2017 sequel. While the gameplay improved significantly, it was overshadowed by a predatory microtransaction system, which many saw as a cash grab in a full-priced release.
Gamers did not hold back and swiftly resorted to review bombing. In response, developer DICE implemented changes to the system, aiming to restore confidence among the player base without compromising the gameplay experience.
6 Pokémon Sword and Shield
National Dex Controversy
The release of Pokémon Sword and Shield marked a significant moment for the franchise, as it was the first core title on the Nintendo Switch. Fans were filled with anticipation but soon expressed disappointment over the exclusion of the full National Dex.
This perceived reduction led to accusations that Nintendo and The Pokémon Company were offering a subpar experience, spurring players to voice their dissatisfaction through review bombing, a tactic that gained significant traction despite the game’s quality.
5 The Last of Us Part II
Pre-Release Backlash
Before its release, The Last of Us Part II faced intense scrutiny after narrative details leaked online, leading to vehement reactions from fans. Critics targeted the game for perceived narrative choices, claiming the developers were prioritizing social agendas over storytelling.
This situation exemplified a striking instance of review bombing prior to release, casting shadows over a game that ultimately provided a gripping and well-crafted narrative.
4 Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition
A Disastrous Launch
Debates continue over whether review bombing can ever be justified, but Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition provides a compelling case. Renowned for its disastrous launch, the collection quickly became one of 2021’s lowest-rated games on Metacritic.
The trilogy had transformed into what many perceived as a mobile port, lacking the depth and quality that characterized its original titles. Rockstar later acknowledged their failure and announced a pause on remasters to redirect focus towards the next installment in the franchise.
3 Warcraft III: Reforged
Disappointment from a Beloved Franchise
Warcraft III: Reforged presented itself as an ambitious remaster of a beloved classic, promising enhanced graphics and improved functionality. However, upon launch, fans were met with a stripped-back experience that felt far from a true upgrade.
Adding insult to injury, players were forced to upgrade to Reforged to access the game, leaving their beloved original game in the dust. While Blizzard has made aspects of the game better since its release, many players argue it still doesn’t meet expectations.
2 Helldivers 2
Confusion Over Network Requirements
Even successful titles like Helldivers 2 are not immune to review bombing, often stemming from issues outside their actual gameplay. In this case, the requirement for players to link a PlayStation Network account led to backlash, particularly in regions where access was erratic.
In response to the backlash, developers worked alongside Sony to address these concerns and ensure a smoother experience for players. The proactive measures taken eventually led to an uptick in positive reviews as gamers appreciated the swift action.
1 Team Fortress 2
Continuing to Demand Attention
As of 2024, Team Fortress 2 remains relevant, albeit for less than favorable reasons. Players feel neglected by Valve, leading to frustrations over the game’s state, specifically regarding the proliferation of bots that severely undermine gameplay quality.
This outcry from dedicated fans has manifested as review bombing, reflecting a desire for Valve to re-engage with the community as they focus on new projects such as the upcoming shooter, Deadlock.
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