One thing I have noticed in gaming reviews is the linear/sandbox gameplay argument. When a game like Fallout 3, Fable, or GTA swings for the fence in terms of open ended gameplay, reviewers condemn it as a disjointed experience. Meanwhile, the linear games out there are criticized for their lack of openess.

A game can’t be everything at once, so why should reviewers try and tackle this debate? Sure, if a sandbox game has weak sandbox components, then a reviewer is justified to discuss it. On the other hand, if a linear game handles itself perfectly well, then it seems counterproductive to demand otherwise.