Rental Roundup - One Month On

Well, it's been about a month since I started renting games after my startling epiphany that I should have been doing it for years. I decided to go with Boomerang rentals in the end, rather than the one I mentioned and so far I've had five games from them. How has it been? Well, I'll tell you and give a score to how I think the rental went over all - yes, note this is a score for the rental, not the game itself.

Gears of War 2


One of the things I hoped I would happen through renting is that I would discover gems I missed the first time around. Finding old games that are great (even when they're only a few years old) is like filling in a piece of your life that has been missing. It's only recently I've started playing Metroid and Castlevania games, for example, and with each one I said 'Where have you been all my life?'

Shadow of the Colossus is like that times ten shitloads. I'm thirteen out of sixteen colossi down now and I am fairly confident that this is one of my favourite games of all time. Even though I love Ico, I initially didn't get Shadow when I was put off by a review which, while positive, seemed to list all the things that might frustrate me about a game. I filed it away in my 'to play sometime, maybe' list and since then my desire to give it a chance grew. This game was second on my priority list when I got it, so I was excited when I found out it was coming.

It thrusts its sword directly into all of the appropriate weak spots in my gaming brain: simplicity in concept and execution, storytelling-through-gameplay, a fantastic, game-enhancing soundtrack and a constant sense of wonder. I'm so glad I rented this but at the earliest opportunity, I'm buying.

Rental Experience-O-Meter:
Glad I Didn't Buy : 1/5
Service : 5/5
Enjoyment Factor : 5/5

Final Score : 5/5

Summary

With a good start, slightly shaky middle and great finish, this has been a fine month in rentals. I've discovered new treasure, dispelled a few curiosities and saved some money. With Shadow of the Colossus nearly complete and Trauma Center soon to be returned, I'm looking forward to another fun month!