Metacritic

Leading review aggregation platform for entertainment media with significant industry influence

Metacritic is a review aggregation website that compiles reviews from critics and users for entertainment media including video games, movies, TV shows, and music. Founded in 1999 and launched in 2001, the platform uses a weighted average system (Metascore) to provide numerical scores that have become influential industry benchmarks. While often categorized as AdTech due to its advertising-supported business model, Metacritic is more accurately described as a media and entertainment content aggregation platform that generates revenue primarily through display advertising, affiliate marketing, and content partnerships. Owned by Fandom, Inc. (acquired in 2022, previously owned by Red Ventures and CBS Interactive), Metacritic serves as a critical resource for consumers making entertainment purchasing decisions and has become a significant factor in the entertainment industry, with game developers' bonuses sometimes tied to Metacritic scores. The platform attracts millions of monthly visitors seeking consolidated review information, making it valuable advertising inventory for entertainment brands, gaming companies, and streaming services. Its influence extends beyond consumer decision-making to impact marketing strategies, public relations, and even contractual agreements within the entertainment industry.