I have a few friends where if they hate the game, I must pick it up then. And I also have friends where if they love the game, I pick it up. I subscribe to GameInformer and I agree with their reviews about 75% of the time, I've found through various mags that there isn't just one magazine that fits my odd and yet varied taste.
But if it's on my own judgement, bargain bin is the way to go. $19.99 or under, for the most part, except for the super glaring deal (Donkey Konga + bongos for $20, Taiko Drum Master $12, Tekken 5 Ultimate $29... you get the idea
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