Rebellion deluded, pretends AVP has critical acclaim

Oh my, what a disappointment Aliens vs Predator has been. I posted my negative thoughts on the multiplayer demo prior to release, and since then I've had a chance to try out all of the other game modes - unfortunately my opinion has not been bettered.

The game is selling well, though. It has taken top spot on the UK charts, and is moving a good number of units in other regions too. There's a truth beyond the sales statistics, though...

The game sucks. The Predator and marine missions are sure to excite, but beyond those brief escapades lies a void filled with your high expectations, and not much else. Rebellion CEO, Jason Kingsley, tells Joystiq that "We wanted Aliens Versus Predator to be a critical success as well as a commercial success, which we think we have achieved." I hate to be so pessimistic, but topping the charts for a week is hardly indicative of a commercial success. Especially when you consider that early sales are almost certainly thanks to the stature of the previous two AVP titles, and the increased brand awareness delivered by movie adaptations.

As for critical success, the game has an average review score of 68 across the 3 platforms (PC, Xbox 360, PS3). Only one publication has rated it higher than 85, with most in the bracket of 50-70. This is not good. Not good at all, Jason.