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I wrote this a long time ago and may not reflect current opinions.
Its best to avoid making the Reception section list-like, for example, "A liked D, B liked D, but C did not like D". Instead, summarize what multiple reviewers thought about one thing at one time, for example, "ABC liked D. Some liked this about D, and some praised this about D. DEF did not like D, because of this and that." Let me clarify; I normally like to format my reception section like this (note this is an example, reasons vary):
Process edit
Give a starter sentence, kind of like a hook, that describes what the section is about, such as
The graphics were praised for their innovating techniques and realism.
Then, list off reasons explaining this hook, like if two critics found the graphics realistic, combine their points if they are similar; it would say something like
The graphics were praised for their innovating techniques and realism. Some critics liked how the graphics looked realistic compared to previous games in the series,[1][1]
You can add on more points if the critics have more things to say that are similar, such as
The graphics were praised for their innovating techniques and realism. Some critics liked how the graphics looked realistic compared to previous games in the series,[1][1] and some found them to be the best selling points of the game.[1][1]
Add on as many as there are to mention. If one reviewer goes against the grain and says something interesting, unique, or just a quote or paraphrasing to describe it all, that's when I get specific. I tend to list out what source they're from, and most of the time their name, and explain what they thought about the section in question. I only quote if they said it better than you can. Such as
The graphics were praised for their innovating techniques and realism. Some critics liked how the graphics looked realistic compared to previous games in the series,[1][1] and some found them to be the best selling points of the game.[1][1] Ozzie Mejia of USGamer praised the world design for being innovative and "standing out from 2020", and compared it to the likes of Cyberpunk 2077."
You an do this multiple times if there's a reason to do so. You can continue on the paragraph with another hook, key points, and quotes. Maybe with, for example, the soundtrack. Both are relatively similar.
The graphics were praised for their innovating techniques and realism. Some critics liked how the graphics looked realistic compared to previous games in the series,[1][1] and some found them to be the best selling points of the game.[1][1] Ozzie Mejia of USGamer praised the world design for being innovative and "standing out from 2020", and compared it to the likes of Cyberpunk 2077." (Transition...) Additionally, the soundtrack was also praised; many critics fount the music to be...
This will result in paragraphs being organized into different concepts. Maybe the paragraphs would be formatted as, "this section is about graphics and music", "this section is about plot and characters", "this section is about negative reception", "this section is about key points that had mixed reception", etc.
Examples edit
Now, shove this all together. Here's an example; I'll dissect this with colors to show the different sections of a paragraph. Being the hook (purple), the summarizing points (blue), the specific reviewer mentions (orange), and the split off into another key point (red). The example I'll use is from my current featured article nomination, Paper Mario: The Origami King.
In addition, critics praised the world design and mechanics for their innovation. Many of them enjoyed the paper-style worldbuilding, saying it topped the game off and paired well with the storyline.[1][1][1] The game's linear open world design was compared to the likes of The Legend of Zelda series.[1][1] Some critics appreciated how the world is interactive, with characters, collectible treasures, and that it seems there is something interactive almost everywhere.[1][1][1] (Transition...) Critics found it fun to explore and discover hidden Toads in the environment, calling the experience entertaining on its own.[1][1][1] Electronic Gaming Monthly praised each Toads' witty dialogue, noting how it kept the overall hunt fresh.[1] (Transition...) Reviewers called the soundtrack engaging and calming, comparing it to the excellence of those of the series' previous games.[1][1]
And here's another one, from the same article:
Critics praised the game for its unique writing, appreciating each character's unique, comedic dialogue.[1][1][1] (Transition...)Some critics praised Olivia in particular for her personality and humor.[1][1][1][1] Ozzie Mejia of Shacknews called her an "absolute delight", and believed she told a story of "creation, purpose, and living a meaningful existence in the short time we have".[1] (Transition...)Bobby has received critical attention for his role in the game.[1][1] Beth Elder of Gizmodo was devastated over his death and noted the strength of storytelling in video games; she said they "can make us truly connect with their characters".[1]
See if you can dissect this section from Paper Mario: Sticker Star:
Many critics were negative towards the removal of multiple role-playing game (RPG) elements,[1] of which a lack of character progression, such as experience points (XP).[1][1] GamesRadar+ liked the change from traditional RPG content, but believed there was "not enough of an RPG for genre buffs".[1] Additionally, critics were disappointed in the loss of a proper story,[1] but the comedic writing was praised;[1] Paste reviewer Casey Malone believed the game "stands out as genuinely funny compared to most other games".[1]