PR Firm Admits to Influencing Game Reviews

Kohnke Communications is suing Gods &Heroes maker Perpetual Entertainment, claiming the game developer owes it money for favorable press coverage.

Kohnke Communications, which specializes in video game PR, has filed suit against developer Perpetual Entertainment for breech of contract. The plaintiff claims that money is still owed by the defendant for securing favorable preview coverage for the now-canceled Gods &Heroes.

"Kohnke's public relations campaign was successful in creating pre-release 'buzz' around Gods &Heroes, and in convincing reviewers to write positive reviews about the game," reads the seven-count court filing.

The news comes shortly after the firing of GameSpot editor Jeff Gerstmann, who was allegedly canned for panning a game (Kane and Lynch) made by one of the site's largest advertisers (Eidos).

GameSpot has since denied the allegations saying Gerstmann was fired for "internal reasons" not advertiser pressure seeking a more favorable review.

Kohnke officials denied comment when contacted by GamePro.

For more computer gaming news, visit GamePro. Story copyright © 2007 IDG Entertainment. All rights reserved.

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