How influenced are you by Movie/Game reviews?

[Roland1919]

I will admit that I love the fact that I have the luxury of combing through web reviews before I drop $20 - $50 on something. Lets face it, during these times you have to be thrifty, well, you should be practical in your spending habits regardless. I enjoy sites like Gamespot http://www.gamespot.com/index.html or Rotten Tomatoes http://www.rottentomatoes.com they give me an "idea", of how, when or why I would purchase something. Notice I put idea in quotes. Now, while its not gospel, it is a good indicator for me; especially for games. For example; I was anticipating Turning Point for PS3, reviewers on hotspot gave it terririble reviews and explained why, more importantly gamers (you and me), gave it terrible reviews as well. That was enough for me not to get it. Could it be my loss, did I miss a great gaming experience? Maybe. Maybe not. But with todays market and the number of games out there already I don't have time or money for junk. Conversely, Donnie Darko didn't get the greatest reception when it went to SunDance...turns out ot be one of my favorites and a highly anticipated titles for Blu-Ray. My point is that as a consumer we have a lot of trusted, valuable and resourceful websites not to make an informed decision. While I don't say take absolute faith in other peoples opinions, I find it comforting when reviewers (like you and me) give and opinion and support it with relevant argument or information.