Loading Reality uses the below scale for all scoring. The scores are used for each of the individual categories (presentation, gameplay, graphics, sound, and value factor), as well as the final score. We understand that attributing a number, letter, or star to a game is a minimalist way to describe the qualities of a piece of art, which is why all reviews published by Loading Reality are given a score after the written review is completed. The star-based scoring is issued based on the review and what the author described.

Be informed, read the review.

	0.5 / 5 - Nothing to offer, at all. Think about E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (The game, not the lover of Reese's Pieces.)
	1 / 5 - Very few, if any, redeeming qualities are greatly shadowed by downright terrible features.
	1.5 / 5 - Bad and bordering on terrible. There are a minimal amount of acceptable qualities that seem worthy of attention.
	2 / 5 - A handful of key things are well done, but the numerous faults look to overwhelm the total. If a "final score," the game is possibly worth a rent for franchise fans.
	2.5 / 5 - Flatly average. There's nothing very unique about this, but it doesn't deserve to be completely ignored.
	3 / 5 - Slightly above average. There is nothing incredibly special about it, but there are enough good qualities to make it worth a look for fans of the genre.
	3.5 / 5 - Above average and even teetering on "good." Ambitious ideas along with redeeming qualities outweigh the handfuls of negative, making it worth a look.
	4 / 5 - Very good. Most gamers, regardless of genre preference, will be able to look past small issues and enjoy the numerous positive qualities. If a "final score," the game is "probably" worth owning.
	4.5 / 5 - Fantastic! In spite of small flaws, something different is brought to the table and is excuted incredibly well. If a "final score," the game receiving it is a contender for game of the year.
	5 / 5 - As close to perfect as a can be: an industry-influencing masterpiece. If a "final score," the game should be owned by everyone, ever.

	It's 2am Already?	Long nights are guaranteed as this game is addictive!
	Aural Pleasure	Stunning sound and voice work. Or, as it's also known: the DICE award.
	Bated Breath	Anticipation abounds. Earning by being one of the most looked-forward-to titles of the year.
	Editors Choice	Awarded to anything 4 stars and above.
	Eye Candy	Gorgeous graphics and spectacular animations. Just dead sexy.
	One More Time	You'll want to come back to this game again and again.
	Party Down	Outstanding achievements in multiplayer. Don't trade this one in.
	Plot-a-lot	Incredibly well-written, this game plays like a story or film.
	Sleeper	Underhyped and deserves more attention (ex. Red Faction).
	Something Old, Something New	Subverts and innovates. A new way to play your favorite game (ex. Borderlands).
	Bomb	Sounds like a good game in theory, but is executed poorly.
	Deflated	Overhyped and not all it's cracked up to be (ex. Fable).
	Glass Beware	Horrible voice acting, poor scoring, bad soundtrack, and all around audio failure.
	Turd	No description needed. Although, if one's desired: everything is icky. Everything.
	Ugly Stick	This game resembles something from two generations previous and has been beaten with the stick.