Netflix getting rid of user reviews – permanently

Netflix getting rid of user reviews - permanently 1

User-written reviews on streaming giant Netflix will soon dissipate into thin air. Based on a report from CNET, Netflix has plans to completely remove user-generated reviews from its platform this summer. It’ll take place in a few different phases- by July 30, writing reviews for shows and movies will be halted. In August, existing reviews will be completely wiped from the servers.

Netflix stated that the reviews had “declining usage over time” and therefore have become obsolete. Therefore, they’ve decided to remove the written reviews and stick with the thumbs up/down system. It’s also been reported that they’ve notified any user who has used the feature recently.

The ability to write and read user reviews have been already limited to the desktop version of Netflix. They don’t show up in any of Netflix’s apps across any platform, but the rating system is still intact on both the desktop and apps.

Previously, they used a star rating system which was replaced with a thumbs voting system. They claim that it’s easier to use the thumb system and it’s more accurate for personal recommendations of shows and movies, which may increase user engagement. A report from Variety says that the company saw a whopping 200% increase in ratings when they switched to the thumb rating system.

Netflix has also been testing a new subscription tier in Europe. It’s called Ultra and it allows an account to watch Ultra HD content for just about $20 USD.

Nintendo removes user reviews for its games on its official pages

Nintendo removes user reviews on its official pages for its games.

Nintendo recently added a new option for players to leave reviews on Nintendo Switch games directly on their home site.

however, they quickly removed it shortly after. The feature to leave user reviews was only available for about 5 days after its launch. Customer reviews for the console still exist, but the games reviews are gone.

Only a small blurb of info is still available in the remnants of what was once user-generated content on their site:

“Customer reviews have been taken offline as we evaluate this feature and its functionality. We currently have no estimated date on when an update will be provided. We appreciate the positive response and thank the reviewers who provided such thoughtful commentary on the games.”

Nintendo said it’s just a “trial” in a statement to Polygon and that it may be revamped and returned, but there’s no guarantee as of now. This has many players annoyed and itching for a new review system where they can simply type out their thoughts rather than use preselected tags and categories for the game.