How we rate games

Two separate measures. One says how hard a game is for a beginner. The other says how well loved it is.

Beginner level, 1 to 5

Each game gets a score from 1 (easiest) to 5 (hardest) on five things: controls, camera, fast reactions, how harsh it is on mistakes, and how much reading it asks for. The overall level comes from those.

1. 1Gentle
2. 2Easy
3. 3Moderate
4. 4Challenging
5. 5Tough

These ratings are drafts and are being reviewed by a person before launch.

Tried & tested score

A mix of critic scores (OpenCritic), player reviews (Steam) and copies sold, plus a small bonus for major awards. It is kept apart from the beginner level on purpose: some of the most loved games are tough for beginners.