Why do you choose the games you play? What qualities make a game really good for you? I assume a lot of people will have the same answers, but a friend and I had this conversation at a bar recently and I was surprised that we were really far apart. So I thought why not try a thread on it.

For me the number one thing is the "story," it keeps me playing for more than just passing idle time. I love getting really into worlds. I read a lot as well and a good story can keep me playing the worst designed game of all time. I have to know what happens.

Character Building is huge for me. Advancing and upgrading characters is such a great feeling of accomplishment. Sounds kind of nerdy typing it out like that, but I love building up characters to powerhouse bad ass's that crush everything. Though by the time you get to that stage the game is either over or gets boring very quickly.

My last big thing is Music, I find myself buying game soundtracks or singles off iTunes all the time. I love music and a great soundtrack to a game is just awesome.

Most other things I can work myself through. Some sort of competitive aspect will keep me playing a game I am bored with only because I love the competition so that can be an added bonus. Though with my qualities above most the games I pick out tend to be RPG's and don’t really have any competition built into them.

So to make it a discussion, what are the qualities you most enjoy in games? When you are waiting for "blank game" what are you most excited for about it?