Bethesda No Longer Giving Out Early Review Copies Of Games!

Review copies of games are often a way that developers get more buzz about their titles prior to releases. Often, these reviews can shed insights on whether a game is more than just hype. Given the state of games these past few years, some may even say they’re vital.

However, Bethesda released a blog post today stating that they will no longer be giving out early review copies for their titles. You can read the full statement below:

“At Bethesda, we value media reviews.

We read them. We watch them. We try to learn from them when they offer critique. And we understand their value to our players.

Earlier this year we released DOOM. We sent review copies to arrive the day before launch, which led to speculation about the quality of the game. Since then DOOM has emerged as a critical and commercial hit, and is now one of the highest-rated shooters of the past few years.

With the upcoming launches of Skyrim Special Edition and Dishonored 2, we will continue our policy of sending media review copies one day before release. While we will continue to work with media, streamers, and YouTubers to support their coverage – both before and after release – we want everyone, including those in the media, to experience our games at the same time.

We also understand that some of you want to read reviews before you make your decision, and if that’s the case we encourage you to wait for your favorite reviewers to share their thoughts.”