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Just to derail this derailed discussion even further, I'd like to add that people who write novels in the present tense should be shot.

Except Neal Stephenson, who apparently is really good even if I can't read any of his books because that tense choice is just so godsdammed annoying.
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BlackMageJ: Just to derail this derailed discussion even further, I'd like to add that people who write novels in the present tense should be shot.
Okay but what about those who already wrote them ?
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BlackMageJ: Just to derail this derailed discussion even further, I'd like to add that people who write novels in the present tense should be shot.
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Telika: Okay but what about those who already wrote them ?
touché
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dvldolphin: When reviewing a game for GOG remember that all action in a game is in the present tense. Too many times have I seen a reviewer write something like, "the player assumed the role," or "players were able to," but all action is in the present tense, just like a book or a movie. For example, Ultima Underworld: The Stygian Abyss allows a player to assume the role of a dungeon explorer, desperately seeking to prove him- or herself innocent of a kidnapping. It makes no difference that Ultima Underworld came out in 1992, when a player is playing the game, it is happening in the present tense. You will greatly improve the quality of your reviews by remembering this simple point.
I'm sorry, did I just walk into an English class? You may want to worry about your own reviews and let others worry about theirs. You will greatly improve your standing with the community by remembering this simple point. :P
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Fenixp: No, it actually depends on what form does the reviewer want to take.
Agreed, if the reviewer is doing a straight forward review, present tense, if its about their gaming experiance, past tense, and if its about what a new player will find in a game, future tense.
Man went in to see his doctor. "I don't know what's going on, doc. Sometimes I feel like a teepee, and other times it's as if I'm a wigwam."

The doctor replies, "The problem is that you're two tents."
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Austrobogulator: I agree, unless, of course, it's a discontinued MMO where it's not possible to play the game anymore.
Good observation!
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amok: Would it not depend on whether the reviewer is talking in first person or third person?
Yes.
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djranis: who the hell gives a damn about tense, unnecessary tension
It matters only if you care about good writing. Good writing is a marketable skill and deserves respect.
Post edited December 22, 2013 by dvldolphin