I was just looking for something inexpensive to knock-about with after 10 years of not playing electric guitar - I was expecting to just purchase an unknown brand LP or Strat knock-off, and was surprised to find an Epiphone at this price-point. I wasn't entirely convinced, as I'd always liked the LP shape, but not the weight. This far exceeded my expectations in terms of build, looks, and playability: it's a fairly light guitar, but you can still feel it's a solid, well-built guitar. The neck feels kind of broad to me, but I don't feel like I am fighting it like some of the inexpensive guitars I have had in the past.
Also, I love the unvarnished finish - it's a pleasure to play, and it's a fine-looking instrument to boot.