So IGN relesed their top overall game of the year as Fallout 3. I have no problem with this award in general, but when you look at the scores for the other contenders next to Fallout 3 its hard to figure out exactly what's going on over there......
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IGN Ratings for Grand Theft Auto IV (PS3)
Rating Description
out of 10 click here for ratings guide
10 Presentation
The story is Oscar quality. The use of the phone as a gaming portal is genius. There's really nothing more that could be asked for from GTA IV.
10 Graphics
The level of detail is astounding. Liberty City feels alive and lived in. While there are some technical issues, the artistic merits push the score to the max. A true marvel.
10 Sound
The dialogue makes the story. Without the excellent writing and the stellar voice acting, the story would fail. And the soundtrack kills -- more than 200 songs and almost all are great choices.
10 Gameplay
The cover and targeting system work great. Blind firing with an RPG is a thing of beauty. Everything works in harmony and not a single one of the missions is bad. The most fun I've had in years.
10 Lasting Appeal
The story will take anywhere from 25-45 hours to complete, depending on your skill level and attention span. There's plenty more to do once you finish the story, such as excellent multiplayer.
10
Masterful OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)
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IGN Ratings for Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3)
Rating Description
out of 10 click here for ratings guide
10 Presentation
A story worthy of a feature length film, with action that keeps you engaged from the second you hit the start button 'til the final credits roll.
10 Graphics
Incredibly detailed and visually breathtaking, with amazing camera angles, MGS4 is one of the most beautiful titles ever made.
10 Sound
Haunting melodies, the re-introduction of classic themes via iPod, and perfect line delivery by actors -- this is an aural delight from start to finish.
10 Gameplay
Not only does MGS4 include new gameplay mechanics, it shatters the mold of what's expected from the series. Stealth, action, or balanced play: the choice is yours in how you explore this MGS world.
10 Lasting Appeal
There are dozens of secrets and Easter Eggs, along with tons of ways to approach any combat situation. Plus, when you're done with the single player, MGO will keep you engaged for weeks on end.
10
Masterful OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)
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IGN Ratings for Fallout 3 (PS3)
Rating Description
out of 10 click here for ratings guide
8.5 Presentation
The atmosphere and style are everything you could ask for and more. The PS3 version has shown us substantially more bugs than what you get on PC and 360.
9.0 Graphics
The landscapes are wonderful. The character models and animations could be a lot better.
9.5 Sound
Excellent voice acting and a soundtrack that completely fits the game's mood. The sound effects aren't bad either.
10 Gameplay
A rare combination of excellent combat and deep role-playing.
9.5 Lasting Appeal
A more focused experience than much of what Bethesda has created in the past that begs to be played for hours and hours. This is one game you won't soon forget.
9.4
Outstanding OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)
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Clearly, according to IGN's own system, not only are GTA and MGS better over all than Fallout 3, but each individual category supersedes Fallout as well. Using this system, they have left no room for a logical argument in declaring Fallout 3 the superior game. For this, I only see two possible explanations, the IGN editors gave into pressure from Konami and Rockstar in their initial reviews, or they are mentally challenged in regards to what numerical values represent. Better luck next year guys.....