As the result of an unfortunate disc-cracking incident earlier this year, I was Left 4 Dead-less for a total of 6 months. I just recently picked up a new copy of the game after a used copy price drop. I considered waiting for Left 4 Dead 2 and opting out of buying a working copy of the first game, but my lack of time spent with survival mode and the prospect of additional DLC convinced me to take the $25 plunge.  
 
I had completely forgotten how much fun I have with this game. Left 4 Dead is multiplayer bliss. I've always struggled with finding a good multiplayer experience on the 360. I'm kind of the odd man out when it comes to multiplayer games. I'm that guy who always wants to take a little extra time to consider strategy or whether or not we can better accomplish a task by working together as a team. Most multiplayer shooters do not really cater to that sort of mindset and I think that's ultimately what I appreciate most about Left 4 Dead.  
 
There are no heroes in this game. No Rambo shenanigans. We stick together or we die.  
 
I struggled a bit getting re-oriented with controls and campaign layouts, but the experience wasn't near as hectic as that virgin voyage into the No Mercy campaign. Remember that first time? Not knowing what the hell is coming around the next corner and trusting your panicking and inexperienced teammates to watch your back? Too intense.
 
But that immediate desire to come back after the first experience pays testament to the re-playability of Left 4 Dead. Sure, your first run is nerve-wracking, but every experience after that is just as exciting for completely different reasons --- new difficulty levels, random encounters, discovering new routes and pickups, or just improving your skills with other players.
 
I'm happy to be able to continue playing Left 4 Dead and I'm finding myself even more excited for the sequel. Valve's created, in my opinion, the definition of a great multiplayer experience and I can't wait to see what the sequel has in store.