A
post on Bethesda.net explains that the company values media reviews, before
going on to explain their new policy that will make it more difficult for the
media to review games in a timely manner. Though companies refusing to send out
early review copies of games is often considered a sign of low confidence, they
say from now on they will send out review copies one day before games are
released, leaving no time for practical prerelease reviews. They note such
concerns about the recent
DOOM release proved unfounded, but do not
explain the reasons for the new policy except to say "we want everyone,
including those in the media, to experience our games at the same time." For
those reliant on reviews for purchase decisions, they say: "We also understand
that some of you want to read reviews before you make your decision, and if
that’s the case we encourage you to wait for your favorite reviewers to share
their thoughts." This makes us hope they take the accompanying logic step and
stop offering preorder bonuses, but so far
that is not the case.
Here's their explanation of the change:
At Bethesda, we value media
reviews.
We read them. We watch them. We try to learn from them when they offer critique.
And we understand their value to our players.
Earlier this year we released DOOM. We sent review copies to arrive the day
before launch, which led to speculation about the quality of the game. Since
then DOOM has emerged as a critical and commercial hit, and is now one of the
highest-rated shooters of the past few years.
With the upcoming launches of Skyrim Special Edition and Dishonored 2, we will
continue our policy of sending media review copies one day before release. While
we will continue to work with media, streamers, and YouTubers to support their
coverage – both before and after release – we want everyone, including those in
the media, to experience our games at the same time.
We also understand that some of you want to read reviews before you make your
decision, and if that’s the case we encourage you to wait for your favorite
reviewers to share their thoughts.
Skyrim Special Edition releases globally on October 28 for PlayStation 4, Xbox
One and PC. Dishonored 2 releases globally on November 11 for PlayStation 4,
Xbox One and PC.