Reviews first for me. Still it's hard to get what I want to know. Wish there was a site that always gave details on what I'd like to avoid. Like qtes, fixed-cam, auto-save only, strict linearity or obvious turn-based battle systems. I make exceptions to every rule but a game with all of the above is not something I'd buy. No offense intended to more traditional gamers or those with more varied tastes. You can generally find the info you're after with a series of specific searches but an opinion on quality and a number doesn't tell me much. I've had good luck with some recommendations from vgc users.
Judging by sales would be even more hit or miss. We all have a pretty good idea how to sniff out the best values and the styles, genres or devs closest to our ideal but you still pay your money and take your chances.
