Reader Reviews
Introduction
One of the benefits of using WordPress to run PlanetPhillip is the ease with which users can post comments, suggestions etc. An extension of this is for users to post their own reviews of maps and mods. This post provides some guidelines and also instructions how.
How
- Firstly, write your review, preferably in a normal word processor (like Microsoft Word, Open Office Writer, Abi Word, Google Documents etc) to avoid spelling and grammar mistakes etc.
- Then proof read it one last time to ensure you are happy with it.
- Open Reader Review Code.txt and then copy it into a text editor - (I highly recommend Notepad ++. but the Windows standard notepad will be fine)
- Now copy and paste the relevant section of your review into the text document.
- When you have finished copy the whole text and paste it into the comment area of the relevant map or mod.
- Click the submit button, and relax
Now What Happens?
Your review will be visible immediately. I will check it when I next visit the site and ensure it meets the guidelines listed below. I will also put a link to the review in the main post, meaning readers will be able to quickly jump to your review.
I may even tag the map or mods with your name, meaning that readers will be able to quickly find all your reviews. Please contact me if you are interested in this feature.
Review Format
A sample review can be seen in the comments of this post, It contains fiver compulsory sections: the review itself, negatives, positives, summary and your recommendation. There is also an optional section for a Five Word Review. This is a feature that challenges the review to summarize a mod in five words or less.
Streamlining
If you plan to write and submit reviews regularly then you could save the review code as a template in your favourite word processor and use that to save time. Just don’t forget to copy it to a text editor BEFORE you try and post it as the formatting may be lost.
Problems?
If you have any problems with the above process don’t hesitate to contact me and I will do my best to resolve the issue.
Images
Currently you are unable to add images yourself but if you feel your review requires them just contact me and I will organize something.
Why?
There are lots of review sites available but often they take awhile to produce a review or becoming a reviewer for them is difficult (submit previous work etc). Well, at PlanetPhillip everybody, anywhere, anytime can write a review of a map or mod. This is your opportunity to improve your writing skills and get some exposure.
Review Guidelines
There are a few guidelines you need to follow but nothing to draconian! I want everybody to express their opinions and thoughts in clear, polite language.
- Consider splitting the review into two sections: technical and gameplay.
- Don’t swear or use abusive language.
- Don’t bother to submit reviews like “It’s crap”. I’ll simply delete them!
- Be fair and professional.
- Don’t spoil the ending for readers. (I will definitely delete those!!)
Editing
There is no editorial control over the reviews except to ensure that reviews contain no links to inappropriate sites, insults and swearing. I reserve the right to make minor changes if necessary. You retain copyright over the review.
Questions?
If you have any questions not answered by this post simply post them as a comment.
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