I am indeed talking about the same magazine, in fact, in one of the recent issues they talk about why they score everything so highly and that it's impossible for them to measure how much joy a game can bring them. They complain about the current system and how it leaves little room for things such as simple joy, artistic direction, etc etc. 

The thing I LOVE about play is not the scores, but reading the review and seeing exactly why the rated it so. I didn't agree with the lair score, I haven't played the game yet to be honest, but I have no doubts that they have a good reason either. Play magazine did they're games of the year edition, and here were a few of the editorial picks.

Dave Halverson game of the year, Heavenly Sword. And when you read his review you'll definitely understand why.

Brady Fletcher, Ratchet and Clank Tools of Destruction

Heather Halo 3, and for far better reasons than any other magazine listed.

 There staff goes against everything that seems mainstream and they break down reviews so amazingly :P Pick up an issue some time and just judge it yourself ^^

Personally, I enjoy reading the pros and cons of a game in order to determine whether or not they are worth taking a look into.

reviews are often drivel, i never base my game purchases on reviews alone.

Reviews are a helpful resource, but they shake their readers trust when they overrate games that were overhyped: Halo 3, GTA4, etc... Though it should be over for awhile,(no title of the magnitude of the 2 I just mentinoed are coming out anytime soon) they have only themselves to blame for their skewed reviews. I also bought Cod4 due to its review.

@ChronotriggerJM
I totally agree. Play's reviews are great.