Review Policy & Ethics
Our reviews exist to help readers make informed buying and playing decisions. A score is an editorial judgement based on our own testing and experience, not a commercial arrangement.
Editorial Independence
Scores and verdicts are decided solely by Unboxed Reviews. Publishers, manufacturers, PR agencies and retailers do not approve our copy, choose our score or receive a right of veto before publication.
Review Samples & Access
We may buy products ourselves or receive hardware samples, game keys, subscriptions, temporary accounts or event access. Each scored review can disclose how access was obtained and any relevant return, loan or relationship details.
Testing Standard
Scored reviews require meaningful hands-on use. Hardware is tested in representative real-world conditions and games are played on the stated platform/build for long enough to support the published verdict. Material limitations are disclosed in the review.
Scoring
Scores reflect the reviewer’s overall judgement at the time of publication, informed by the stated criteria, testing and market context. A free sample, review code, embargo or affiliate link never adds points or guarantees a positive verdict.
Commercial Relationships & Affiliate Links
Reviews are not sold in exchange for a favourable score. Where affiliate links, advertising relationships, sponsorship, gifted products or other relevant commercial relationships exist, we disclose them and keep the editorial decision separate.
Updates & Corrections
We correct factual errors and may update reviews when substantial patches, firmware, product revisions or long-term testing materially change the reader’s understanding. Significant changes should be explained rather than silently altering the original conclusion.