In a world where an app’s success or failure often depends on its rating, EA isn’t taking any chances and has started using some dodgy tactics to boost its image online. In the Android version of the freemium game Dungeon Keeper you get an occasional prompt to rate the game, which is normal practice in most applications. However, this particular prompt gives the following options: if you’re thinking of leaving a 5-star rating, you’re directed to Google Play Store where you can leave your glowing review; if it’s anything less, pressing that button will open a window where you can “leave feedback”, skipping the Play Store altogether.
Sure, you could still leave a 1-star review, but you’d have to manually go to the Play Store, find the game, and leave a review. This obviously stacks the deck in EA’s favour, despite the company’s claim that this tactic is employed to “collect valuable feedback from players who don’t feel the game is worth a top rating.” Given that the wording on the prompt is “5-Star ratings from you help us provide free updates!”, it’s clear that content is being held hostage in exchange for an artificially inflated rating, and isn’t sitting right with gamers. It’s no surprise then that the company was voted Worst In America, 2 years running.
VIA [ TheVerge ]
