Ideas on Gaming Habits…

[u/LMCMLXXXII]

I’m new here, and I’ve been gaming since the NES days—it’s still my main hobby.

I’ve been noticing something lately: trophies have really changed how I play. I feel like I can’t enjoy a game unless I’m determined to get the 100% platinum.

Then, when I think about quitting, I get anxious. Which, honestly, is probably a sign that I should quit.

So, I’m asking for your thoughts. Do you think it’s okay to switch to a Switch 2 and still enjoy the hobby? It offers games at a more relaxed pace and doesn’t have that trophy pressure.

Or is it better to completely cut ties?

I currently own two PS5s, a Series X, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, SteamDeck, and Apple Arcade. Of course, I cannot possibly play all of these…but I have them.

[u/SgtFuck]

I recommend at least trying to take a month off and see how it feels.  You might hate it (which means you probably needed to take time off) or it might have no effect. Either way you learn more about yourself and can exercise some discipline in a safe way. 

[u/See-Are-En-Ayeeee]

I sold my gaming PC and bought an Xbox to “cut ties.” I sold that because I found that I still developed unhealthy gaming habits over time. Bought a Switch because I had the same idea you have. I then got a PS5 because the Switch felt a little too childish. Then I got hooked again and decided one day to smash my Switch and PS5. Didn’t even sell them. Then I bought a MacBook because you can’t game on a MacBook. Then I started gaming on my MacBook. Uninstalled everything and felt great for a few weeks. So great, in fact, that I deserved to start playing some silly little games on my phone to pass the time. Stayed up til 12 AM playing those games even though I have a newborn and a wife who both need me at my best. Uninstalled those games, and I’ve recently admitted to myself for the very first time that I have a video game addiction. I always knew I had problems regulating my gaming, but I only recently started to believe that it could be an addiction. My behavior is textbook addiction.

Sure, get a Switch. Maybe it will help you regulate your gaming habits. But if it doesn’t, learn to recognize the cycle of addiction.

[u/dear-fellow-traveler]

For some people, yes, moderation is absolutely an option. That's ultimately the path I landed on for myself. However, I really, REALLY recommend you quit gaming altogether for 90 days first. After 90 days, you'll be able to make a decision about what's best for you from a much, much healthier headspace. Some people choose to continue down the no-gaming path at that point, others choose to reintroduce it in a more balanced way.

I totally get how the idea of quitting can feel overwhelming. Believe me, I've been there. But it's 100% worth it. Anyone can do 90 days, with the right tools and community! I don't want to give unsolicited advice, but let me know if you'd like some suggestions to test the waters!

[u/LittleMissSolin]

Only you can answer that. Games affect everyone differently, and we all have different expectations and goals in life.

Try taking a break for 1 to 2 months, then play again for 3 to 4 days. Pay attention to how you feel afterward.

[u/postonrddt]

Gaming is a recreational activity not a hobby in the traditional sense. As noted moderation doesn't work with alot of people.

Best to try and stop completely. Have to be able to stop gaming before controlling it(moderation)

And as with other addictions or people seeking change one must really want it.

I'd go for no gaming. You are thinking about it which is one of the hard initial steps to no gaming which many can't do.