How I smashed my target to complete one video game every month: Reader's Feature

Every month, Dispatch becomes a new challenge for a Metro reader who's made it his goal to complete at least one video game every month since the beginning of 2026. For someone who says their appetite for gaming comes in peaks and troughs, this has been a remarkable feat. So how does one achieve such a target, especially when life gets in the way? The reader's round-up for the first half of the year offers valuable insights into their gaming habits and what makes them tick.

The reader's journey began with Dispatch, a game that left a lasting impression, especially on their writing and voice acting. They're not the only ones who appreciated this aspect, as fans of narrative-based games like The Walking Dead series or Life Is Strange would likely agree. What sets Dispatch apart is its ability to strike a balance between emotional depth and humor, making it a standout game in their opinion.

In February, the reader took out a PS Plus subscription to access a few games they wanted to play, including Sword Of The Sea. This game's unique premise, where you glide across the ocean on a sword, offers a refreshing change of pace from traditional gaming experiences. With its beautiful art style and relatively short playtime of around four hours, it's a game that doesn't overstay its welcome.

The reader's gaming tastes are diverse, as evident in their appreciation for Thank Goodness You're Here!, a surreal game that's almost like an interactive comic. While it may not appeal to everyone, its humor and art style are reminiscent of British magazines like Viz or Beano. However, what's striking is how quickly the reader became ready to move on from this game, suggesting that even the most intriguing experiences can lose their appeal over time.

When the reader's PS Plus subscription lapsed, they took advantage of a bargain they found on Facebook Marketplace, purchasing Ghost of Yōtei for a mere £35. This game, an expansion of Ghost of Tsushima, proved to be a worthwhile investment, offering improvements over the original game, particularly in its expanded combat system. The reader's appreciation for this game's stunning graphics is evidence of the beauty that can be achieved in gaming.

The reader's success in completing one game every month can be attributed to their willingness to take risks and try new experiences. By embracing games that might not be everyone's cup of tea, they've opened themselves up to a world of possibilities. Moreover, their ability to find value in bargains and subscriptions has allowed them to access games that might have otherwise been out of their reach. As the year unfolds, it will be interesting to see how they continue to challenge themselves and push the boundaries of what they thought was possible.

As we move into the second half of the year, the reader will undoubtedly face new challenges and temptations. Will they continue to push themselves to complete one game every month, or will the pace begin to falter? Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: their passion for gaming has inspired others to take a closer look at their own gaming habits and consider setting goals of their own.