About DoveMaxor

Independent game journalism rooted in New Zealand, built on a love of great games and honest writing.

Gaming Journalism Without the Hype

DoveMaxor was founded in Wellington in 2019 by a group of friends who were tired of reading reviews that read more like press releases than honest assessments. We set out to build something different — a platform where every score is earned, every verdict is argued over, and every reader can trust what they're reading.

We cover games across all platforms and genres, from massive AAA blockbusters to indie gems that might otherwise slip under the radar. Our team of eight reviewers brings diverse tastes and backgrounds, which means you'll always get a perspective that goes beyond the surface.

We are entirely independent. We do not accept payment for reviews, and all scores are determined solely by our editorial team after thorough playthroughs.

DoveMaxor team at work

Our Review Methodology

🎮
Full Playthrough

Every game is completed before a score is assigned. No partial reviews, no skipping content.

10-Point Scale

We use a granular 10-point scale with one decimal place. Every point means something specific.

🗣
Editorial Review

All reviews are read and challenged by at least one other editor before publication.

🔒
No Paid Reviews

We never accept payment, gifts, or incentives in exchange for coverage or scores.


Meet the Team

JR
James Rowe
Editor-in-Chief

RPG specialist with 15+ years of gaming. Believes every game deserves a fair hearing.

SK
Sophie Kim
Senior Reviewer

Action and shooter expert. Holds the office record for fastest completion of any souls-like.

MT
Marcus Tane
Strategy & Sim Reviewer

Wellington-born strategy fanatic. If it has a tech tree, Marcus has mastered it.

AL
Aroha Lowe
Indie & Adventure Reviewer

Champion of overlooked indie titles. Finds the gems that the big outlets miss.

Want to Work With Us?

We're always open to hearing from developers, publishers, and fellow gaming journalists. Drop us a line.

Get in Touch