I created the Rate-O-Meter as a way of assigning a grade to the things I review. I wanted to asses things in several categories and also give an overall grade. I would like to take a moment to break down how I assess something and how it applies to the meter and the overall grade.
Each category gets its own meter:
Board Games / Video Games
Games are rated on the following four categories:
Presentation: This includes packaging and any related materials that are included with the game like "feelies", maps, etc., as well as the game's design (for video games, this will include the levels, character appearance, graphics, etc.). Artwork, placement, and other factors will be considered.
$$$ Value: Since I will be primarily reviewing out of print games, I will also be assessing their current value and collect-ability factor. This includes current eBay listings and collector's market ratings. Basically the question is: "Is this worth what it's currently valued at?"
Entertainment: How much enjoyment will this game provide? Sometimes a poorly packaged game with hardly much of a story can be a load of fun. Here, I'll be looking at the game's play-ability, replay value, acting (for video and VCR games), and overall fun while playing.
Difficulty: How hard is this game to play? How clear are the instructions? It is well balanced?
TV / Movies
Video media are rated on the following four categories:
Performance: Here I look at the actors and how well they delivered lines, related to their characters, and their believably in the role.
Visuals: How was the movie shot? Does the tone match the story? How are the special effects? Are they used wisely or is it a Michael Bay explosion-fest? I will be taking into consideration the time in which the show/movie was made for this as well. For instance, a movie made in the late 90's with poor computer effects wouldn't pass but a movie with similar effects in the 80's will get a little more slack. I need to consider the technology of the time.
Entertainment: As a MST3K fan, I know that an absolute cheese-fest of a film can be wildly entertaining. Here, I'll be looking at how engaging the film/show is with it's audience and it's re-watch value. Does the story keep you wanting more? Is it believable? Is it boring?
Soundtrack: The music in a film or TV show can make or break the whole thing. Was the music a good fit for the story? How much does it enhance the film? Does the score make the presentation more vibrant?
Merchandise
Merchandise are rated on the following four categories:
Presentation: This includes packaging and any related materials that are included with the item. Artwork, placement, and other factors will be considered.
$$$ Value: Since I will be primarily reviewing out of production items, I will also be assessing their current value and collect-ability factor. This includes current eBay listings and collector's market ratings. Basically the question is: "Is this worth what it's currently valued at?"
Play-ability: How fun is this item? I will be looking at how much enjoyment is had when using the item for it's intended purpose...but also any unintended purposes that may present themselves.
Accessories: Intended primarily for toys, but can also include a variety of other things, this category will cover extras that are included with the item and the added value that they bring to it.