So many things in that list bring back memories. I used to love being able to play local multiplayer, on racing games especially, and being able to compete with your mates on the same screens when we got together, but so many games don't include it now.
I used to play so mamy demos too!! I would buy 2 or 3 different playstation magazines purely because they had different demo discs, and if you liked the demo it would encourage you to buy the game. Now, if you're not sure about a game all you've got to go on our reviews and gameplay videos, and then if youre still not sure about it waiting until it comes massively down in price to get it so you're not too disappointed if you don't get like it.