At first glance, the Guinness World Records 2010 Gamer’s Edition looks like a well put together, fun to look at, stat filled book of video game delight. After the first full read through, it is that… and so much more.
Everyone knows who Guinness is, they keep track of records, some important and amazing others trivial and strange. For video game fans however, it is all important! This 200 plus page book is crammed full of video game records from every console and computer and every genre. Even while reading about genre’s I had never played or cared about the editors and consultants kept it fresh and fun to read.
This is not simply a book with lists in it. Every page is decorated with great pictures from different games and record holders, fun facts and tid-bits. Not to mention, the records themselves which, for the most part, are mind blowing. Do you know what the high score is on Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2: Hanger Level? I didn’t, but now I do and I am impressed. How about the toughest achievement to get in Left 4 Dead? Or which run and gun game features the most boss battles? All of this and a whole truckload more are within the glossy covers of this book.
One of my favorite sections to read through was near the end of the book. The “Top 50 Video Game Series” section highlights the cream of the crop as far as video game franchises go and the coolest part about it is, it was all voted on by video game fans like you and I. There is the Twin Galaxies index of gaming records, a “Best of” section featuring highlights from each console and so much more.
If I had to pick out one negative I would say that sometimes it is hard to decipher what is an actual record and what is just information. That wasn’t that big of an issue for me however and regardless of what you are reading, it is all cool information. If you are a video game fan, this book is undoubtedly for you. These guys continue to do their homework and it really pays off. They have left the game by game structure of the last two editions behind and provided an easy to read genre by genre bible of video game greatness. Whether you leave this on your coffee table or in your bathroom, it will get read over and over again. Share the book and knowledge with your friends or keep it to yourself so that you look like an all knowing video game guru. Whatever you decide, check it out, it is worth the price and time.
Comments