A review needs to assess the game from a critical standpoint, taking cost completely out of the equation, whereas a recommendation can explore the value that a game provides.
I don't think you can so easily separate those two though. If you did, you'd have to review Virtual Console, WiiWare, and full-fledged Wii titles on the same scale. You can't though. No one expects to enjoy Super Mario Bros. the same way that they enjoyed Super Mario Galaxy - one's $5 and one's $50.
Look at it this way... SMG was a great game, right?
Now, pretend it was the exact same game, but Nintendo was selling it to everyone for $5.
Do you not think that should be factored into the review? I mean, when games are reviewed, they get compared to earlier games and similar games (including those on other systems) - can't you compare the price as a part of the quality?
In an environment where you have nothing to gain or lose, you are able to give the most evenhanded evaluation.
But we're not in a "Nothing to gain or lose" situation when publishers are giving out free copies of games. You stand to lose future gifts if you tick off the publisher.
However, if you have to base your review of the game off the exact same criteria the majority of your audience will be viewing it from (i.e.: spending $50-$60 on it), you have nothing more to lose than your audience does. I mean, you're going to review a game with "nothing to lose", yet those reading the review have $50-$60 to lose.