For me, it has to be “souls like”. I don’t get much time to game so when I do, I want linear stories that are challenging but not to the extent that I can’t move forward without dying 100 times.
Also, sims that encourage a lot of DLC purchases - I’m an old school gamer and games used to come with all of the content - for one price. Now it’s just a given we have to hand over more money for half the game content.
"I’m an old school gamer and games used to come with all of the content - for one price. "
Sing it, brother.
For me, though, Souls-like are the main attraction. I’m drawn to them like a moth to the flame. Few games have given me as much joy and satisfaction as immersive RPGs (like Zelda OoT, say). And among RPGs, Souls-like games are God Tier. Demon’s Souls, Elden Ring, Nioh? Hell yes, I’ve played the crap out of those and platinumed 'em. Sekiro too.
I could scarcely care less about the multiplayer aspect. I’m in it for the immersion. Like getting lost in a fantastic SF novel. Only better and longer-lasting. And I get to control what happens next (to an extent).
I can count on one hand the number of sports games I’ve bought. And dance/guitar/rhythm games? Nah. I’m good, thanks.