Recourse for bad, expensive PC games

Question

PC gaming seems to be a little bit different than many other forms of entertainment. Going to the movies cost you $10. A book is similar. Console games can be sold or traded. As a PC gamer, is there any recourse for making a "bad buy", when you're out $50?

I try to be careful before buying new (expensive) games, but even highly reviewed games won't appeal to everybody.

Edit: Recourse could be anything. Does throwing the CDs in the microwave really make you feel better? I'd like to know.

Answer

This doesn't help for games you've already bought, but:

I think research before buying is the best answer (as many other answers have already said - especially demos, videos of actual gameplay and reputable reviews sites).

But I'd like to add: wait. The game will still be there in 6-12 months, but:

• Less $ wasted: you can buy it on sale on steam (often for as low as $5-10 at some point in the first year or two after release)
• More honest reviews: the reviewers will get over their initial excitement. If the game was really good (once they look back, with the benefit of hindsight) they'll put it in a "best games of the year" list.
• Fewer bugs: Some games get patches after release that fix bugs (some even add features or fix bad DRM)
• Maybe even better visuals: you may have upgraded to a faster PC by then

It may seem hard to wait, but there are a million other things to do while you wait (sports, social life, novels, movies, study, family, travel, learning... and if that doesn't appeal to you: have you really played through all of the best games of all time already?)

PS: Doesn't work as well for internet multiplayer games, of course - you may have trouble finding fellow players if you wait too long!

PPS: Not just saying this. Just finished Braid ($10), I'm playing Portal right now (Orange Box $10) and will probably play Mass Effect ($10) or Psychonauts ($2) next

PPPS: Further example: Prince of Persia: Forgotten Sands. At release: $50, only 6 months later: $5 (steam sale).

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