This actually made me quite sad. And I think because it resonates with me so very much. I’ve been gaming for 25 years and I think I’ve just hit this point where I can’t keep doing it. I think it really is ruining my life but it’s so hard to remove it. I grow fearful of what I will fill the time with , I wonder what stories / experiences I’ll miss out on. But it has to be done. Thank you for this video.😊
Thats the same how i feel. There are some new games that i would like to play but because of work, girlfriend, things i have to do, gym etc i just simply barely find time for gaming... And i kinda dont enjoy them anymore.
When I was 15, I quit gaming and decided to put my time into learning 3D and I couldn’t be happier. Now I’m 18 and have over 5000 hours of experience in something useful.
I did too at 1 time to do music & krazy as it sounds its like that's when I started working hard on my craft & within a couple of years I was able to drop my 1st project, do alot of features, built my own studio, did shows, etc. I always was good but I did a talent show & won & 1 of the label A&R's took me under his wing & the main thing he taught me that changed everything was he told me "U gotta make sure ur quality is on point". I had never recorded in a real studio b4 then. I actually sold my Xbox for studio time which at that time was like $50-$60 an hour. I eventually got another 360 once I started doing good & had my own place, but I never played the game as much as I did b4 I got rid of it. I have a series X now that I love but I've never been a super gamer as far as the internet, so the multi player probably played apart in it also. B4 then I played with my friends on the couch, so it was kind of a bonding thing, but the multi-player thing is too toxic. Plus if u don't have the amount of time or money it takes to play to win, u get smashed b/c they have all the upgrades
50 yr old playing here. 2 kids 3 granddaughters and still playing. kids need to learn when to play and do the job. yall can still play with moderations. hope yall get it
These videos are usually made by people who were addicted to competitive games, they were addicted and that's why when they stop they see a huge change in their lives...but while they played 8 hours non-stop another guy somewhere only played 1 hour or two and then they went to the gym to exercise or work... but since they couldn't play moderately they believe that everyone who plays is addicted... I'm 28 years old and I love playing them and I don't think I'll ever stop playing them. I have a I work, little boy and this year I ran two marathons but for them to do all this is impossible if you don't stop playing games...
Hey I thank the guy for the video but I cannot resonate with it except for the bit about overstimulation. I am glad his approach worked for him. What works for one person does not for another, and for me I have no kids or partner but I started limiting my playtime to the weekends, this stops me getting overstimulated. It gets lonely at times but its healthier to do it this way and keep my gaming experiences balanced in this manner, because gaming is awesome. I also swim and visit live music shows.
I stopped playing video games about 6 months ago. I realized that I was just trying to feel the same joy I did as a kid playing Pokemon for the first time. That time would never come, and I felt as if playing was a chore more than something fun. I've made huge strides in life since leaving video games alone, but I will always been grateful for the memories that games gave me. Fantastic video Aron, very relatable!
i realized something like you too... i was trying to feel the same whey that i felt when i played Ragnarok for the first time... when i played WoW for the first time. When all my friends were there playing with me. Sometimes is hard to accept that life changes and we will not feel something like that anymore.
I felt the exact same thing. I couldn’t agree more. I was trying to create that type of environment by playing video games which makes you feel like you’re enjoying the old times with your friends. But that time would never come now. When I realized this, i just stopped it! And life is really fun without video games. You experience everything around you more deeply.
You can still feel the same joy is that you think you should be doing Something Better or in this case Being an adult But then you have to ask yourself what is being an adult Paying bills Fucking a bunch of women getting yourself in the thousand dollars Debt Because you got a kid And then your wife Last girlfriend wants to use your kid As a weapon to extort money out of you And then you're going to wish you were single playing video games again because it's a lot less stressful and a lot less cheaper
Okay so you dont like games and realised it cool, why did it take so long to recognise the taste of shit in your mouth? I dont like football so i dont play it... i didnt play for 10 years then come on youtube and act like it was a crack addiction. Games are notdrugs bro.. you had a problem not the games.
It really makes you think when everytime people have an addiction or some problem with video games it's always an online multiplayer game (wow, lol, csgo, fortnite...)
single player games have a beginning and end almost always. it's hard to be addicted to any single player game (of reasonable length, 100hr games are a bit different). multi-player games have the benefit of infinitely more variable gameplay through the introduction of human adversity/cooperation, as well as a husk of human connection through text chat, emotes, voice chat, and other actions and activities. single player games also don't have nearly as much incentive to exploit dopamine in the player, since usually you play a game once or twice and move on.
Came here to say something along these lines. These "infinite loop", live service games seem to always be at the core of these types of videos. I would almost say that these types of games should be siloed into their own category.
@TCRodriguez have you ever thought some people might actually just like the game? All of youbhere acting like its crack, and if you all hate games so much why are watching more videos about themm... go outside and do non game stuff lol , or are you all addicted to youtube instead now? Great tradeoff😂😂😂 get addicted to something else that needs even less brain power well done💀
There were a lot of great points in this video, but there is something I would like everyone to remember: it’s ok to do things simply because you enjoy them, if they aren’t interfering with other aspects of your life. It’s also just as ok to stop doing those things if they no longer bring you joy.
For sure. If half of your day is taken up by gaming, you definitely need to take back one step. One solution that I think would benefit more people is to quit competitive games, especially ones with insanely high skill ceilings. I quit those kinds of games last year, and I havent gone back ever since. My game time has decreased at least around 80% daily on average, and im studying and exercising much more, while still enjoying something I love.
@@kronikz_2210 omg yes! I spend far less time gaming now that I've quit competitive games like battle royales and stuff, I also enjoy gaming again because I don't have some try hard ruining the experience. I do still play online but only cooperative games, chucked a few hours into lethal company here and there since it was released.
@@kronikz_2210 Yeah this is a hugely important point. I was really confused by this video until I realised he was talking _solely_ about PvP gaming, and not about narrative/exploration focused games, things like RDR or Alan Wake or TLoU etc. I think people who enjoy those games shouldn't feel like it's an issue unless there are visible problems in life that they're neglecting.
@@LDillon yeah because story driven games are not that addicting, it's just like watching a series of a saga of a film but you play instead of just watching it, sandbox games or pvp games takes a lot of time, maybe even open-world because u explore so much that you just don't know how much time you've spent playing
@@andyluan7183 100% exactly! I think he makes out that gaming as a hobby is the problem, but really it's those specific types of games and that approach to trying to 'master' a PvP game that's the issue
Today, I've finally decided to quit video games. I've been working on self improvement and realized that my time is too valuable to waste playing video games. I also realized that video games drag me back into procrastination and junk food and laziness. So I'm done. It was difficult for me to do because I have made friendships from gaming communities, But I've realized that I need friends in real life that I can go out and do things with and that all the other friends I made were only because of video games. This is my final step in starting a new life, a better one.
I know this coming 2-year-old But you said you wanted to Self improve yourself You don't need to stop playing video games do that you just need to prioritize what you're doing And you need to figure out how are you going to improve yourself Did you figure that out how are you going to do that In what way would you improve yourself Mentally Spiritually Physically how are you going to do that And you have a nice day And I know this is been a year But I hope you resume Thanks
This video hit too close to home (my old comment got deleted since my old channel got banned for some stupid reason, so I'm posting this comment again) I relate 100% with all the stuff you said in this video and you have no idea how happy it makes me that I'm not alone. I was a kid that grew up with a nintendo DS, playing pokemon and zelda games, until I eventually got an ipad to play minecraft PE lite on, and that was my very first "love" because I found myself instantly hooked onto that game as well as getting to meet so many different people. Which also led me to watching several minecraft youtubers for over the span of several years, it became my childhood, my safe-haven, my escape from reality, it became a part of my identity. And the same was with an mmorpg (final fantasy 14). But it eventually hit me that I couldn't keep playing these games forever, that I no longer enjoyed them, that I ended up using them to escape my responsibilities, and it really hit me when you said "It's almost as if I was trying to hold onto my childhood" which was exactly my case. I've gone cold turkey again, and I'm planning on moving forward with my life without these vices. I'm grateful for all the past memories, experiences, and laughs I shared with the people I got to spend it with growing up, but like you said, with all good things, they all eventually must come to an end, and we need to accept that. I wouldn't trade my past for anything in this world, and I wouldn't change a single thing if I had to go back. People say nostalgia is sad because "you don't get to be a kid anymore" or "Those were the good old days, I wanna go back, I hate the present right now". But the past doesn't have to be sad, if anything, I see my past as my "inner child" and I use it as an inspiration to live a more fulfilling life in the present as well as "make the child version of me proud by growing into the best version of myself". Nostalgia can be healing, showing you that you've had brighter days, and that the world isn't over, if you were able to be so happy back then, then you should be able to find things that also give you a great sense of joy once more, even to the point of *surpassing* your childhood days. But don't dwell on the past to where it makes you hate the present, to where it makes you sad and depressed because you can't go back in time, that's the unhealthy side of nostalgia. Don't be sad it's gone, be happy that it happened, do everything in your power to surpass those memories in joy, happiness, and fulfillment. And I'm sure that'll make the kid version of you very proud :) Go meet new people, go on real life adventures, become successful in your career, build a fantastic body in the gym, get lost in a wonderful book, go see the world and experience all there is to experience. Do all the things you *couldn't* have done as a kid, and then you will realize, how much you've grown as a person, and that no amount of games, nor nostalgia could ever even replicate this amount of satisfaction and fulfillment. Thanks for making this video, it makes us ex-gamers feel heard and seen 🔥
This dopamine rush of hitting headshots on FPS games gets people hooked like a drug. We keep chasing that high, and when we don't get it, we get irritated, upset, angry. However, whenever we get that high, it feels amazing. And we keep chasing that high forever. It's an addiction. Even pro players feel this. It really is a trap that might ruin your life.
I think the main issue with video games is that too many people treat it as a way of life rather than as just another form of entertainment or art. I think it's fantastic to admire the world building of games like Detroit Become Human or Celeste but people don't just appreciate the art. A lot of people just play the games and get sucked straight into the world and associate with the characters and join the fandom. I'm not saying that's "the wrong way to play games" but some people just take the hobby too far. Throughout watching this video I was heavily reminded of a point made by Bo Burnham in the 2021 comedy special "Inside". He basically says that (with social media) people spend so much time trying to build an internet presence that they treat the real world just as a way to access the virtual one, which for some people is more real. Personally, I'm at a point where I really only ever play games to review them for videos. So I don't really feel the point that I'm not accomplishing anything because I'm getting paid to do what I enjoy. But I really couldn't imagine myself still playing games if it weren't for RUclips.
I just cried like a fucking baby within the first 10 seconds of this video. It hit me that i’m actually going to give up gaming, the thing i’ve spent the most time doing in my life since i was 6 years old. Had no idea it would be this emotional, but it just shows how much it’s taken over my life and identity. Damn. Haven’t cried like that in awhile
Dude if you dont like the taste of shit dont eat it. If you like a game youll play it. Clearly you dont like any anymore. Stop acting like its a crack addiction youre giving up
@@aronsegali hat this whole gaming is all bad and "you need to grow up" mindset theres thousands of people with lives carears and children who play to relax and the second just look at indie games
I'm nearly 34 years old. Almost 3 years ago broke a cycle of addiction and found a new way to live. Video games were a big part of what helped me cope with no longer using substances to change how I feel, but what once was a crutch for me has begun to feel more like a prison. You have helped me come to terms with what I was afraid I knew. Video games have become the new drug for me. This farewell letter to not only video games but an entire version of yourself has pierced through whatever was still holding me back. Tomorrow I will begin selling my gaming PC and working towards the next version of myself. Thank you so much my friend.
Thank you so much for writing all of this down, it means the world to me. I am grateful for thr fact that the story of my journey helped you on yours. Good luck to you ❤️
I believe that similar to food, there are both low-quality "junk" video games and high-quality "healthy" video games. Junk games, such as PUBG, LOL, Overwatch, and CS, are designed to repeatedly draw you in without any sense of closure, leading to a never-ending cycle of starting new games. On the other hand, healthy games allow you to experience a story crafted by artists, filled with emotional depth, problem-solving challenges, plot twists, and a it actually has an end. It's very often single player games or coop games. Whether or not you decide to play video games, just avoid toxic junk games that can trap you in an endless time sink.
I think I agree with you on this one. I also play trash game and I guess I should stop doing it now. But I don't ever think saying someone should continue playing when they are in a bad situation is a good thing. I mean people have some problems in real life. Maybe they are poor or they have other problems or real life dream. who know? We should let's them chase their own priority and don't give drugs to them when they aren't healthy to get high. Maybe after a really long break they will try new way of gaming back? But I hope they can chase their own hapiness first before we talking about enjoying games. I still think there are more good things to enjoy first and sooner than video games.
I wouldn't necessarily go as far as calling them "junk" games. They can definitely their own levels of depth and they of course take a crap ton of work to make, but I do agree with your general sentiment in that you're separating these live service games from single player, narrative games that have very concrete and definite endings.
I don't think the type of game matters, I think it's your relationship with video games that matters. If you're sinking gross amounts of time into games, and neglecting your life then yes you should probably give them up for a while. If you play casually, whether that's a single player with a great story and artwork, or jumping on call of duty and just playing a few maps here and there for a bit of fun, then there's nothing wrong with that. That being said, I think video games do have a way of sneaking in more and more. They have inherent addictive qualities and provide a false sense of achievement and easy dopamine hits. I'd say you're better off cultivating other hobbies and skills instead.
I actually decided to quit today - prior to watching this video. But this solidifies my decision. Thank you for making this. I wish I did this at your age instead of 46. The hours that I sacrificed away from real family and friends I will never get back - But now I will turn that time into getting healthy again, spending time with my family and actually maybe making some friends again! Hopefully many in our shoes can come to the realization of all of this before it is too late.
For some people it's movies, for others it's shows, for others it's books, and for some it's games. It doesn't matter how you spend your time, just spend it wisely and spend it doing things you enjoy. There's no need to "quit" video games indefinitely and treat them as some sort of drug you must avoid relapsing on, it's all about balance. If you decide you're not in the mood to game right now? That's fine, as humans we have dozens of hobbies and interests by nature, but never shut them out completely. There's thousands of life changing experiences and stories that can be told, felt, and experienced through the medium (The Last of Us, Dark Souls [Dark Souls literally helped me cope with suicidal depression and helped teach me the importance of never giving up], the list goes on and on) not to mention just having some good old fashioned fun! Who doesn't love running a game of Wii Sports bowling from time to time? Heck, it's been almost 2 decades and I still do! TLDR: there's no need to treat it like an emotional break up, this is the equivalent of saying "why I quit movies" or shows or fast food or literally any other form of entertainment that could be inserted here... not trying to be an asshole, just trying to provide a rational perspective. Do whatever you want, and do whatever makes you happy, even if it's revisiting one of your favorite games, or experiencing an entirely new one. There's thousands of experiences to be had, and there are no bounds to the wonderful experiences that await!
Hi Aron, stay strong bro, I play games from 12 years old .. I'm 28 this November and I'm on my journey to stop completely from video games. Please give us updates on your journey to stop playing games
Only 136 subscribers?! The editing and story telling put into this was amazing. Well done. I remember selling my WOW account and feeling like I wasted so much time and money while gaining nothing. 😃
I quit video games about 2 weeks ago. I have big ambitions that I want to chase in my life and I remember sitting at my desk staring at a title screen thinking about what else I could be doing and how I'm wasting my life away. I was repeating the same day over and over again with nothing changing or evolving. I had close to failing grades in school because all I wanted to do when I got home was get online. It's a tough choice also because this is how I connect with alot of long distance irl friends, but I know it has to go. I've been having doubts, but this video just sealed the deal for me. Thanks dude.
I’ve always understood the dopamine hit drive of video games, but the idea that they can hijack your drive for achievement or motivation in the outside world is definitely something to ponder. Well done on a great video.
Ur god damn right, this video made me actually almost cry. You said so many facts that I did not even relalize, that just wants me to quit video games and focus on life which means, studying, getting successful, good grades, getting well educated and a good job that will make you reach your goal, rich and a very happy life. Thank you for bringing this video with so many informations up. Wish yall success in life.
First year after quitting is easy, but then you start to feel like you are in control and little bit of fun won't hurt, but it is very easy to get sucked back into old habits. They will tell you to balance and not be so hard on yourself, but you should never risk wasting another phase of your life.
Narrated `Aisha: that the Prophet (ﷺ) married her when she was six years old and he consummated his marriage when she was nine years old. Hisham said: I have been informed that `Aisha remained with the Prophet (ﷺ) for nine years (i.e. till his death).
Just play games in moderation. You use games as a means to "experience" something. Obviously we play games, in my case, fantasy ones because we'll never be able to conjure up a magic spell. It's like reading a book, watching a Movie or a TV show. It's Art or a form of entertainment. Never in your life should you commit so hard to gaming unless you know full well, you will succeed in becoming a professional player. Reality can't be escaped. You must always have a plan B. Here's something that I know anyone can definitely succeed in, and that's the ability to educate (learn ANYTHING). Make yourself of Value and pass on what you know. That in itself, is fulfilling and learning will never go away. It is in human nature to evolve and adapt. This video itself is educating you in some way as well. Good luck.
@@Jk-qx7gm Yes you can compare it, I just did. Addiction doesn't have to come from something competitive. You have people playing Skyrim and constantly modding it with thousand upon thousands of hours too. I myself have played non-competitve games with hours close to you. I do agree with you that some games just cant ever be left forever or gaming in general, hence moderation or breaks are important. It's funny. I don't see people telling others to stop drawing or making art. Regardless, doing anything specific will always have transferable skills.
@@Jk-qx7gm So your addiction is caused by needing/having to feel relevant in a videogame. Yeah, I know full well you can obviously finish all the games i'd play in a month considering your competitive nature. However, I don't really see your last point because if that's the case. Everyone must be addicted to their hobby or job. Everyone must be looking for an excuse because they just spends "hours" on something. If You don't have the ability to stop at your own will without an external factor stopping you Example, having to work to pay the bills. Then you are addicted to whatever it is. That's why Moderation is key to never feeling like, in our instance "Gaming" is a waste of time.
I get it, It's REQUIRED for you to be there but it's unfortunate, that's how the RUST community was made into and it's completely your own choice to let it consume you into playing. So therefore, Its a YOU problem. Not Gaming in general.
@@Jk-qx7gm Why are you trying so hard to prove it's an external problem and it's never about you? You can get all the help in the world but you know what? Who has to change? YOU, YOURSELF. Yeah I get it. Some people are just so defeated, they don't want to bother anymore. They really only need one hand to support them but it's up to them in the end. Yeah, I could've learned to become an experienced pilot or whatever but that's a choice. Yes I can see the issue with spending time on entertainment. That's exactly what my comment was about, "Doing things in moderation", so you don't spend ALL your time on entertainment/videogames. That doesn't mean you have to drop what you love/like to do. Just because I also have nearly all those hours doesn't mean, I or You, never had the time to educate ourselves in something academic/useful either. Also "Moderation is important mate, i know you are homeless, you tried quitting for 10 years but just get some moderation, its your problem not Drugs in general". If that's your best attempt at trying to help someone out or how you think I'd talk to someone about their issues. That's a low way to go about it. The context is ADDICTION with gaming/entertainment. Not Im homeless, i do drugs now and im also an alcoholic addiction? Where did that even come from? You don't even HAVE to consume anything physically when playing or watching something. Don't put something else in there. It's not the same.
@@raphmoite These videos are usually made by people who were addicted to competitive games, they were addicted and that's why when they stop they see a huge change in their lives...but while they played 8 hours non-stop another guy somewhere only played 1 hour or so and then went to the gym to exercise or work... but since they couldn't play moderately they believe that everyone who plays is addicted... I'm 28 years old and I love playing them and I don't think I'll ever stop playing them. I have a work go to the gym and this year I ran two marathons but for them to do all this is impossible if you don't stop playing games... and some people are just stupid they just hate that people are having fun playing games lol
I really appreciate this video, man. I've been watching Hamza talk about quitting games too. Sometimes I'll go back to watch some gamer videos just see realize how little they actually mean.
Quitting videogames has been one of the best deciaions of my life. I achieved extraordinary things and grew exponentially. I now own a new corvette and house and travel every month all over the world, living my life to the fullest. Some of my friends still play videogames at 22-23 and have absolutely nothing to their name except a rank in a pointless game. They wasted their youth chasing a feeling and have no sign of quitting. Its sad
Inspiring stuff, brother, keep up the great work. I also aspire to achieve similar results with hard work and persistence, video games are just a shitty, cheaper substitute for what we truly want in life. And unfortunately, we can't unplug everyone from the vice, but we can only continue to lead and inspire through example. We have our whole life ahead of us and the fact that we made this realization earlier on, shows the great things we'll achieve in the future. Let's keep crushing it 🤝
@@lukasz4282i already have and i still get to play games when i want and i have a car. You have to hide from game controllers like an ex crack addict and youre telling US to get our shit together?💀💀💀💀🤣👍
You legit sound like a salty bastard who was never good at any games💀😂 get a life mate. Just cus you dont like them you dont have to preach your andrew tate alpha male shit to us " i have a car i travel iii have awife iii have moneyy ymy friends habr nothing but in a rank game mwuahahahaha i have no ballsss i mean "💀👀
I had a break up and got super depressed, so games didn't feel fun anymore, and new games all seemed the same. Once I got out of my depression, I realized how productive I had gotten (no social media either). Now I barely crave those things since I know I can be doing plenty of other things
I recently have been going through a very similar experience, and am now going on 3 months without playing. I feel more productive as I go outside now instead of looking at my TV.
Thanks to videos like this, I will continue to live my life as a non-gamer. It's especially hard when you have to relearn lost social skills with people. I never had real friends in my youth except for colleagues in the multiplayer world. My first goals are to prepare myself for my further professional career, to bring my body, which is in a bad physical condition, back into a fitter state and finally to get to the bottom of the mysteries of friendships and human relationships. The road will not be easy, but at the age of 19 it is high time for this change. My brain must finally learn not to avoid the problems in the real world, but to find a solution!!!!!
This video helped me out to also make the life-changing decision to quit videogames, at least for indeterminate time. I got at gaming slightly later than you, when I was 7-8 years back in 2012, with a Nintendo Wii as a gift from the 2011 Christmas. And just like you, it also shaped my personality as I grew up in those years, the main ones that marked me where Mario Kart Wii, NFS Nitro, Forza Motorsport 3, Forza Horizon 1, Gran Turismo 5, Gravity Rush 1 and most recently Gran Turismo 7, and I regret nothing by playing them, since it's thanks to them that I became who I am. But as my Philosofy teacher said in my school graduation "to achive your goal, you must leave some things behind, like a astronaut leave parts of his spaceship behind to arrive at the moon", and now it's time to leave gaming behind, because if I keep holding to it for a little bit longer it will harm me more than they were already harming me, with my favourite franchise, Gran Turismo, stagnating (Gran Turismos are great, but since GT2, all of them have been launched incomplete, and some creative choices were... questionable) and having a toxic fanbase (cof cof Roflwaffle cof cof), NFS being mediocre, Forza hitting the rock bottom with FM23 and the Horizon spin-off bringing nothing new to the table with FH5, while franchises like Gravity Rush, Ridge Racer and Burnout being dead for quite some time now. Now you might be asking "why don't you stick with your older games", it's because the became very familiar (aka boring) with the time, so the fun has being dwindling quite fast. Not to mention that gaming started to make me struggle at my personal life, with my divorced mother struggling to get the bills paid (and I have a 4 consoles and a simrig, so yeah, we wasted a lot of money with gaming) and I struggling in my first semester in college, reproving in one of the disciplines thanks to me worrying more about what's the next GT7 update rather than taking good grades at college, and I have depression, so I need a strong motivation to wake up everyday, which is building cars (I'm a car guy deep to the heart, and working with what I love would be a dream becoming true), and I won't accept losing everything to videogames. It's time to stop, at least for now. It has been 2 weeks since I stopped and I noticed how hard I embraced this goal, since in such a short time I don't identify as a gamer anymore, at least not as much. My next goal is to reach 1 month in gaming detox, and spending the spare time life in learning more about engineering, so I'll keep up with the class and hopefully reach the goal of becoming a mechanical engineer in the end of this decade. For now, I just have to thank you for helping me to but my life back in the rails, and wishing you good luck in your new life too! Cheers from Passo Fundo, Brazil!🇧🇷🤝🇭🇺
I was in a dilemma on whether to quit videogames and i have been reading alot of articles on the effects of videogames on students. I'm about to enter into college in a few weeks and i was deciding on whether i have to take videogames with me or leave them behind. This video is a perfect representation on what videogames are and the effects it has on our lives. Many points are beautifully explained and gets straight to the point. Thank you so much.
Hi, as someone in college in Finance, if I could give you one advice it would be to quit video games or limit it to 1 hour / day at the end of your study as a reward because video games ruined alot of thigs for me and I wish I could've quit earlier.
this legit just made me cry. i fell pretty much just like you felt, friend. I'm 16 years old, turning 17 in aprill of 2024 and I still fell that a big part of my life was blurred due to videogames. I've had a lot of fun and great time with it, but I still fell like I could have achieved so much more in my life if it wasn't for my videogame addiction (and it is recent that I actually accepted that it was indeed an addiction) and as I aproach the last year of highschool here in Brazil (basically the year that dictates whether we're going to university or not) I start to realize that games shouldn't be such a big part of my life anymore. In less than 2 years, I'll offcialy be an adult. and as times pass, videogames tend to be less fun and I also tend to have less time do dedicate to them and watching this video made me more aware of that, more aware that I'm actually growing up and that I have to leave my infancy behind. when the minecraft music started playing at the end, it all hit me like a truck. I finally realize now that I'm entering a new phase of my lafe, a phase that doesn't include videogames seriously, thank you so much for this realization I hope this video can get to more people so it can make a difference in their lifes like it made in mine all the best
I’m 17 turning 18 in Oct 2024 and i play games every day and don’t have a job . I failed a couple classes too because I was so addicted to games . When covid started I just got out of middle school and I thought I didn’t have to do anything . Starting Monday I will quit games . I just want to reflect on the battle I had since I was 6
I quit 5 months ago along with other addictions such as social media and marijuana and i gotta say my life is more productive and I’m more motivated. Plus my mental health is definitely better and it feels good to put my time into more important things in life.
im 30 and its still hard to break. i just dont download games anymore. anyone reading this I hope you put the control down more and start livinglife. addiction is real and gaming is manufactured to it. 360 days were the golden era for me. I wish I put 1000 of hrs into a productive skill. kudos to all those who grew and became a better person.
Well edited, well put out. You might be only 20, but you have conceptualized an idea that people only understand later in their life, some of them never do. I'm 23, and i also decided to move up to the next stage in life.. It's slow and difficult, but slow is better than being stuck.
Literally my exact thoughts in one single video. Completely addicted to video games since 10 years old. Finally let go of it at 22. I am much more present, patient and less anxious now with family, friends, partners and teachers. Life is getting better. I don't miss gaming either. In fact, I wish I had quit a little earlier. And still, I find myself able to look back at all those years when I was much younger and say: "yeah, those were fun times... " and just carry on with my daily activities as a new adult.
This video is very moving and so we'll done. You should be absolutely so proud of yourself for the level of introspection you have at such a young age. Good for you. Keep up the good work!
I received this video recommendation after watching 'Gaming Addiction Cycle' from 'Low Budget Stories,' and I feel that, for me, it was quite different. I still play video games even after being married and at 33 years old, but I choose very wisely what I want to play. I gave up on wanting to be the best at a game and being competitive because I don't have time to train, and I don't want to stress out. I manage my time to do all I have to do and also set aside time for fun. Playing is a really good thing for me because it relieves my stress and distracts my mind when I'm anxious about things I can't control. Ultimately, the thing is dopamine; if you always play or always do something you like, you will often lose interest in it. So, I try to dose my brain's dopamine and get days without playing or reward myself with an hour or two of playing if I accomplish all my obligations in life. And that's how it works for me.
@@Jk-qx7gm actually no, I don't really much about competitive games, I aways preferred co-op! 😊 But when I was teenager indeed I loved Combat Arms for example... Lol
Thank you for sharing your story, very inspirational. It would be great to see another video from you in a few months time, or a year, to see how things have changed.
The most touching story I have heard, today I sold my gaming Xbox series X and PC. I didn’t want to but I had to for money, I cried packing everything up, every little thing. What touched me was when you saying something about “still wanting to be a kid, or “holding on to you’re childhood. I’ve been gaming since I was age 4 and now I am 24, all of those years I realized how much time I have wasted and how I only used games to escape life and problems. This video helped me through a lot because now I need to explore other healthy ways to endure my free time. Thank you for this video so much, it touched me and I cried through parts of it because I can relate. Cheers to the future of my already 24 years to my life, time to let my childhood go and move on into adulthood. Thank you so much for creating this video.
I appreciate you putting your story out there. There is a shift happening for those who want to live life full out. I decided to leave gaming 4 years ago and go on a journey to help those quit gaming and playing full out in life. You have a purpose man, keep leveling up in life 🙏🏽
Ive been thinking about quitting video games for many yesrs but have always talked myself out of it... and here you come, making this perfectly made, well written video. Fine, you got me. Thanks friend.
I'm thinking of doing the same thing. Since having my son who's now 18 months old, I just cannot find the time, nor the energy to want to play games anymore. I feel now I have so much else to do that gaming just isn't as interesting as it was before I had a child to look after. Now I'd rather sleep instead of staying up ungodly hours playing games, use the time to actually do things that need to be done like house chores, spending time with my partner and son. I love gaming and always have, but I think there comes a time where you just kind of grow out of it, and I feel like I'm reaching that point. Even when I do have some time and boot up a game, I'll play for like 10 minutes and I'm already finding myself just doing something else on my phone or I just get up and leave. Maybe one day when I have free time again I'll return to it, but I think for now I am just going to stop gaming and focus on more important things.
im planning to quit video game today cause i want to focus more about study and school works im very young im like at grade 7 well my teacher said "This is where all your Journey start" my teacher said that in our last online class i realise that gaming is not permanent and not the reason why im alive/born.
Hey buddy! All power to you! The fact that you have already understood this at such a young age is incredible. I wish I was more like you at your age! Good luck on your journey, we are all rooting for you! ❤️
honestly it all starts in high school since those grades will count towards getting into college. But if you want to start studying early I would recommend that like if you get into programming or something you can learn online
Amazing that you realized this at your age. Stick with it. You'll be so glad you did this when you reach age 20, 30 or 40. Your life will be completely different. For the better.
I honestly wanna say Thank you so much for helping me realize I needed to quit playing I used to play for 10+ hours every single day and wouldn’t sleep or eat but I wanted to experience real life and go places instead of playing online games with fake friends
I'm about done with gaming myself, I've spent hours grinding video games trying to reach 1 million gamerscore and I got close at 725 thousand then get hit with a ban hammer from the Xbox Enforcement team, saying I cheated when I didn't. So thanks Microsoft you've brought a guy close to depression I've ever came close too
just play games in moderation. It's fine to have an escape from reality, as long as you realize that's all it is. Obviously if you have a gut feeling to quit then do it, but in this mindset every single form of entertainment or thing that is not productive is a waste. In that scenario, life gets pretty boring
@@Travixty Well it’s not that bad of a comparison, think of a person addicted to drugs. They are also chasing a dopamine hit for a short amount of time. Also think of a gambler they would risk losing everything just to chase the pleasure of winning. My point is not everyone can do certain things in moderation and it’s best for them to just quit all together.
Hey this was great man thank you. I've been gaming since I got my N64 in 1998 at age 6, im gonna be 32 next week but my addiction has been at it's peak the past few months. I took notes with pen and paper as I was watching the video. You're incredibly intelligent and observant and in-being so you have shone a light on some of the key aspects of why video game addiction can be harmful and how to rationalize it. This video hit HARD haha, I love how you put this together. I am going to begin my journey either this weekend or after/on my birthday.
I’m 47…and just now realizing I need to let go of online gaming. I’ve been gaming all my life. Since the early 80’s. I owned the original and first gaming system. Intellivision and then Atari and Colecovision. I only play a couple of hours a day on my days off, and it hasn’t affected my life as a whole, but it’s definitely a big waste of time and it often makes me feel worse when I’m done. I wonder how much more I could have accomplished with all those hours I’ve spent gaming. Well said. All of it. You nailed it. Games are essentially a big distraction. Such a thoughtful, well put together, and inspiring video.
Honestly thinking about giving up gaming. I'm 22 now & been playing videogames since like 5 years old. COD & Madden, the only games/franchise I ever enjoy have went down a black hole. The fun I used to have isn't there & its going to destroy my mental health if I keep playing them. I'm at a point where I'm about to graduate with a Bachelors degree & I have no clue what to do in my future. Gaming has been my life but I don't want a career in that industry. Being a RUclipsr or as they call it now, an "Influencer" would be awesome but trying to fake enjoyment in videogames content on multiple YT channels isn't going to make that happpen. I suppose it's time to learn how to drive a car, graduate, & figure out my 9-5 job so I can build my own Basketball gym/warehouse. What will I do after that goal is accomplished is up in the air.
You now realize that every achievement you had in every video game you have played, none of them really happened, it was just a bunch of meaningless pixels.
@@falkeborg9432Gaming itself doesn’t provide any meaningful benefits while also providing entertainment, books for example are entertaining whilst also improving your reading comprehension skills, vocabulary & grammar, and most importantly, improving one’s literacy.
@@d3ucez that is true for the most part, but if you think about it gaming (generally FPS games) can improve your hand to brain coordination, reflex, and focus. And even non FPS games can increase skills such as Sanbox games that can improve creativity and such
@@SuzushiiSakana I’m not disagreeing with you per say, but I simply believe that those same benefits are more applicable to other outdoor activities and forms of art
I am literally the same as you and i also had this epiphany moments in 3AM where i caught myself sitting in front of computer all alone in 3AM where everyone else are resting sleeping etc.I remember getting out and walking alone in the streets thinking wtf i am doing with my life.
Its not only gaming, people are now days addicted to smartphones, social media, watching endless RUclips videos, tv series, porn and what not. Mostly watching sceens hours In everyday...its all the same. People are distracting themselves from all their own and world's problems but its not only that, its easy to be distracted because there never before was a time In history that there was so much distractions and enternteinment devices and platforms available than today. It was so much more simple when there was only simple phones with what u could call and send messages, when there was not all kinds of Netflix, facebooks or game passes or internet dating sites. People went out to meet friends or dates, has more physical hobbies, family times were spend together doing something nice together instead of sitting In same room but everyone being more busy with their phones than talking to eachother like today. Life was better In 90's and early 2000. Even still early 2010 things were quite good because everything was still more simple, new and exiting. Thank God I experienced those times. Enternteinment was going to movies or going to ice-skating or going to beach together with friends or something like that. If playing some video games, friends were physically at your place playing and socialising with you... there was maybe cooking together and other things too what real life friends do. No Wonder today depression and mental health issues are so common. All the social medias and connecting devices and still people are more lonely than ever before.
As someone who both plays video games and does things in the real world like martial arts, I'd never compromise real world fun for gaming. I feel a lot better playing games after I'm through with my day than playing while I know the day is passing by. Video games become something I do as a way to chill after I'm done with the rest. I also have the habit of focusing on one game at a time, so I end up not playing that much
I am a University student currently in my 3rd Year of B.Tech CSE and Today or the moment from when I am posting this comment I am finally going to quit playing Video Games after playing it for ~13 or 14 years. Your video really has embarked something inside of me to do something meaningful in life rather than wasting my coming years in this cycle of virtual world to hit those dopamine levels. I thought life was worthless and I am of no value, but maybe it will change now knowing I wasn't alone who has done nothing meaningful for society or even myself. I sincerely thank you 💜 for making this video. I am hoping for a better future from here on and I will do my best.
Thank you so much for writing this down❤️. It really means the world to me. I am very glad that I could help, good luck with your journey! See you at the top ;)
Video Gamers are the Matrix : You have to understand. Most people are not ready to be unplugged. And many of them are so inured and so hopelessly dependent on the system that they will fight to protect it. " I realized this in my 20's and it is something I have battled since I realized this , I have to not watch gaming content because it looks so fun and appealing, it is a battle everyday just like a drug addiction. Stay Strong everyone
@@Mark-xp4fw it is just another hobby but they don't see it like that because they were adics ,,they don't think a guy can play games and do other stuff lol
In movies, there's no inherent challenge to conquer, no actual labor or futile exertion leading to losses. Movies and novels engender a sense of fascination, while games offer a wholly different form of escapism. When you engage in reading or watching narratives, it's easy to pause at will. Essentially, the surge of dopamine triggered by games is remarkably potent. Dopamine, a natural component of human stimulation, remains necessary, even if these experiences are essentially storytelling - in one of them, you're actively in control.
I had a very similar experience 3 weeks ago. I got a revelation and became sick around my ps5 and decided to quit after I was about to do something "big". I then realized that everything that I have been doing for the last 5 years was for nothing and that I hated it. I had to get rid of all reminders of my gaming experience to not cause anxiety or sickness. It's the strangest experience I think I've had in a long time, but I thank God that I am saved from the endless psychological torture I trapped myself in. I cut my hair which used to be 35cm, I am paying attention to my university and getting assignments done on time. Video games have destroyed my body, I used to play basketball and karate. My knee was sprained 1 and some weeks now and will hopefully start working out soon.
For anyone with and addictive personality that’s quit video games, good for you. With that being said, for some of those people that quit don’t look down on people who still play video games as if their less of a men cause they still do so. Because not everyone has and addictive personality and some people actually know how to create a balance and keep games in there place. Now for persons that still play, are addicted and find some hobbies you enjoy more than gaming. It makes it easier to give up on video games when you have something to replace it with.
I think i have an addicted personality because i always get too addicted when i try it once and can't moderate it so i'm quitting gaming 5-9months straight
@@yongk1n672 Good for you. My father is the same way, that’s why he doesn’t play games. He stopped years ago before I was born cause of his addictive personality. I hope you make it to a year straight
I don't comment on much my brother, but I really have to say well done. Great video, great content, and I love the end where you said all things have an ending that really resonated with me. Wishing you luck with your new journey.
11hrs? And I always thought 2 or 3 was bad. I'm a grown adult too. I only play story mode games that I can go my pace. I bought battlefield 4 months ago and I'm barely level 30. You made it a chore man.
You can tell me all you want about how video games are a drug and nothing else, world, but every time you tell me through others that my greatest passion is a meaningless, maladaptive addiction, I can only keep telling you that I really do love what I do. I’ll be a gamer at heart until the day I die.
I had a certain list of video games I've been after to actually track down and buy. Recently, i purchased the last one on my list i was looking for. After that, i started really looking at what I'd been doing with my life. Sucks that i got them, and now no longer have the urge to play them. Quitting with no regrets.
great video , i played video games from a young age over 20 years then i started making games for 3 years but making games put me in the same situation as playing games. chasing after that dopamine rush and constantly seeking some kind of social interaction or validation from others , it is pure time consumption and a false sense of reality for alot of us who are consumed by gaming . long story short started focusing on my mental health and physical health through working out , no longer have depression or anxiety or the feeling of loneliness all i feel is solace with more motivation and a sense of self understanding staying away from game culture and social media like instagram , facebook , tiktok etc so many of us seek validation from others when we should be seeking validation for ourselves to find our happiness in life and our own identity walking our own path in life
My friend at school ( I like to think we’re friends but I know he doesnt think of me that way) brought up how he quit video games in a conversation and I always admired his life choices so that led me to RUclips
I wish I moved on when I was like 14 I could have enjoyed my school years as a teen much more. I felt very touched by the video for some reason, thank you for making me quit again🙏 I ll try to find success in real life instead of video games. Sadly I can’t go back in time, so I made a big mistake and regret it. I m stopping now!
Thank you for sharing this, I haven't played video games in a few days now and I feel like there's so much more to life and I enjoy everyday more than before. I'm definetly going to share this to everyone I know.
14:53 hit close to home. I just played Minecraft after a year and couldn’t play it for more than 10 min. Why struggle in an open world when I could do it in the real world? That’s when it hit me that I’ve grown up. And I got reminded of this video and decided to come back. Thank you for making this video and helping me realize that being a grown up isn’t all that bad.
Man this is the epiphany I should have felt earlier in my life, but it is very true!! Video games as they are built today (or was for a long time) are merely digital DRUG and causes addiction like any other. Not to mention the fact that is a totally dispensable activity for your life and a distraction for the things that are truly important.
You know I had the same realization that I thought I if I quit video games I was losing a part of my soul and I would deeply miss video games when I quit, but when I did I realized that I didn't give two rips about video games anymore and that I was having so much more fun in real life than I did spending countless hours playing video games. I'm so happy I've quit and I've never felt better in my life honestly after quitting
I have quite the same story as you have. I also started gaming as 4 year old 2006 but I enjoyed gaming alone a lot. It was fun. But why spend all my potential playing alone when we are all born with a possibility to be the change this world needs.
The same thing you can say about books, movies, music - even going out - you just sit there. If we only do the productive things - we would only work and do sport. But yeah, if you only have one hobby, your life is not as rich as it can be.
thanks for this, uninstalled every game i have. i have been playing since i can even remember and now at 20 years old i have no friends, i live alone in a shitty apartment, no job, nothing to do. stopped my ssri meds due to having anxiety when in public, now i have to actually do anything i want except gaming. we will see how it goes.
I got a good motivation boost now. I will try to gradually replace video games with piano, and please keep me responsible! I know it will be much harder than I think now, but there is no other way.
For me, two reasons: 1) The groups I ran with were becoming increasingly toxic and hateful, and gaming alone is boring. 2) The ratio of time invested vs my other hobbies was way out of balance. I still enjoy the odd game, but I’d rather revisit the “classics” from the 80’s and 90’s than prop up the scummy and predatory shenanigans that are so rampant in the industry now (I.E games being released in an unfinished state, micro transactions, woeful DLC etc.)
Video games have a place in your life when you're younger, maybe if you're well off or spare time but otherwise they inhibit growth and turning into an adult. Thank you for this video it incapsulates what i've been feeling thinking and experiencing. Its hard to stop but once you do You can learn new things, reading, cooking, exercising, movies, music, Thank you
In The Stanley Parable there's an achievement called "go outside" it consists in not playing the game for 5 years, think is time to achieve it, but in a more large scale by stop playing all videogames. I just realized that they are holding me back in life, that they are preventing me to live my life at all.
That's a game that's all about choice. Free will. Perhaps the next choice you have to make is to walk away from gaming as whole. Something to think about
Nothing wrong with gaming, no matter what age you are. It’s all about self discipline and moderation. Gaming has many good benefits too. No need to give up gaming completely and for good.
You're 110% on point about the "are they really my friends" and "the people you play with are NOT YOUR friends" part. I'm selling my Xbox now while watching this. I'll miss all the memories I had on my gaming. It's time to move on. Great video bro.
some apologetics here. i mean you can say the same about IRL friends. are they reaaaaaaaaaaallly your friends? i met some very stunning girls in IRL in reallife. even 800+ km away. sooo idk. it all depends on personal expirience. and this is an oxymoron, you cant miss something and move on.
good video. im in my 30s and i spend on average 50 hours a week on counter strike. nowhere near where i want to be in life so this last few months ive had a lot of thoughts about selling
I've stopped gaming as well, not because of addiction but the empty accomplishment it provided was not productive. It all happened when I played a new game I was looking forward to for years, and realizing that I had more fun cleaning my backyard. This year I've taken volleyball and taking self defense classes instead, and on my lazy free time I'd just make art. It's more fulfilling when free time is spent through your development as a person, unfortunately video games doesn't provide that. Not telling people to stop gaming, but IMO, as we grow up, we also need to watch out where we want to put our free time on, as life is short.
i feel the same way,i just play and watch time pass and have achieved nothing in my life(im 23). im trying to stop playing for 2 years now but i always come back...
For me what helped me the most is replacing gaming with things that I love doing even more (but are less of a hyperstimuli). So reading, editing videos, going to the gym etc. So essentially I focused on finding things that I would do instead of gaming.
alhamdulillah, i stoped gaming from a long time ago more then a year and i really happy with the real life i started reading books, going to the gym and a lot more... and I`m back to my Allah, my religion and working for my akhirah
I quit my guild and wow after playing it for 16 years today. You inspired me to live my life again! I can never thank you enough!
Nearly teared up reading this comment. Thank you for writing all of this down, it truly means the world to me. I am super grateful that I could help
@@JulianKazmier-vo3fnikr that’s cap lol
@@JulianKazmier-vo3fn lol I feel ya man but I gotta have gaming in my life that will be paid for one way or another 😂
Great, that you made it!
How are you doing now? Still wow free?
Dang "Its almost as if ... I was just trying to hold on to my childhood a bit longer" really hit me.
Such a bittersweet moment.
This actually made me quite sad. And I think because it resonates with me so very much. I’ve been gaming for 25 years and I think I’ve just hit this point where I can’t keep doing it. I think it really is ruining my life but it’s so hard to remove it. I grow fearful of what I will fill the time with , I wonder what stories / experiences I’ll miss out on. But it has to be done. Thank you for this video.😊
Thats the same how i feel. There are some new games that i would like to play but because of work, girlfriend, things i have to do, gym etc i just simply barely find time for gaming... And i kinda dont enjoy them anymore.
@@MaybeTiberius Point what i am.saying is i barely play them because i have more important things in life than games.
you will have better moments in real life
That’s exactly how I feel, I hope your doing good man!
We're proud of you.
When I was 15, I quit gaming and decided to put my time into learning 3D and I couldn’t be happier.
Now I’m 18 and have over 5000 hours of experience in something useful.
Thats awesome, bro!
thank God u quit that early, some of us couldn't some of us were now hyped for it, but we thank God that we see the point now
Same but I stopped at 13 ( my firet game was at 6)
I did too at 1 time to do music & krazy as it sounds its like that's when I started working hard on my craft & within a couple of years I was able to drop my 1st project, do alot of features, built my own studio, did shows, etc. I always was good but I did a talent show & won & 1 of the label A&R's took me under his wing & the main thing he taught me that changed everything was he told me "U gotta make sure ur quality is on point". I had never recorded in a real studio b4 then. I actually sold my Xbox for studio time which at that time was like $50-$60 an hour. I eventually got another 360 once I started doing good & had my own place, but I never played the game as much as I did b4 I got rid of it. I have a series X now that I love but I've never been a super gamer as far as the internet, so the multi player probably played apart in it also. B4 then I played with my friends on the couch, so it was kind of a bonding thing, but the multi-player thing is too toxic. Plus if u don't have the amount of time or money it takes to play to win, u get smashed b/c they have all the upgrades
i mean you spent that much time in something the AI is going to do and replace
50 yr old playing here. 2 kids 3 granddaughters and still playing. kids need to learn when to play and do the job. yall can still play with moderations. hope yall get it
These videos are usually made by people who were addicted to competitive games, they were addicted and that's why when they stop they see a huge change in their lives...but while they played 8 hours non-stop another guy somewhere only played 1 hour or two and then they went to the gym to exercise or work... but since they couldn't play moderately they believe that everyone who plays is addicted... I'm 28 years old and I love playing them and I don't think I'll ever stop playing them. I have a I work, little boy and this year I ran two marathons but for them to do all this is impossible if you don't stop playing games...
Hey I thank the guy for the video but I cannot resonate with it except for the bit about overstimulation. I am glad his approach worked for him. What works for one person does not for another, and for me I have no kids or partner but I started limiting my playtime to the weekends, this stops me getting overstimulated. It gets lonely at times but its healthier to do it this way and keep my gaming experiences balanced in this manner, because gaming is awesome. I also swim and visit live music shows.
I stopped playing video games about 6 months ago. I realized that I was just trying to feel the same joy I did as a kid playing Pokemon for the first time. That time would never come, and I felt as if playing was a chore more than something fun. I've made huge strides in life since leaving video games alone, but I will always been grateful for the memories that games gave me. Fantastic video Aron, very relatable!
i realized something like you too... i was trying to feel the same whey that i felt when i played Ragnarok for the first time... when i played WoW for the first time. When all my friends were there playing with me. Sometimes is hard to accept that life changes and we will not feel something like that anymore.
Most real comment I've seen😕
I felt the exact same thing. I couldn’t agree more. I was trying to create that type of environment by playing video games which makes you feel like you’re enjoying the old times with your friends. But that time would never come now. When I realized this, i just stopped it! And life is really fun without video games. You experience everything around you more deeply.
You can still feel the same joy is that you think you should be doing Something Better or in this case Being an adult But then you have to ask yourself what is being an adult Paying bills Fucking a bunch of women getting yourself in the thousand dollars Debt Because you got a kid And then your wife Last girlfriend wants to use your kid As a weapon to extort money out of you And then you're going to wish you were single playing video games again because it's a lot less stressful and a lot less cheaper
Okay so you dont like games and realised it cool, why did it take so long to recognise the taste of shit in your mouth? I dont like football so i dont play it... i didnt play for 10 years then come on youtube and act like it was a crack addiction. Games are notdrugs bro.. you had a problem not the games.
It really makes you think when everytime people have an addiction or some problem with video games it's always an online multiplayer game (wow, lol, csgo, fortnite...)
Yeah the worst games are the most harmful, who would’ve thought
single player games have a beginning and end almost always. it's hard to be addicted to any single player game (of reasonable length, 100hr games are a bit different). multi-player games have the benefit of infinitely more variable gameplay through the introduction of human adversity/cooperation, as well as a husk of human connection through text chat, emotes, voice chat, and other actions and activities.
single player games also don't have nearly as much incentive to exploit dopamine in the player, since usually you play a game once or twice and move on.
Me playing Geometry Dash 💀
Came here to say something along these lines. These "infinite loop", live service games seem to always be at the core of these types of videos. I would almost say that these types of games should be siloed into their own category.
@TCRodriguez have you ever thought some people might actually just like the game? All of youbhere acting like its crack, and if you all hate games so much why are watching more videos about themm... go outside and do non game stuff lol , or are you all addicted to youtube instead now? Great tradeoff😂😂😂 get addicted to something else that needs even less brain power well done💀
There were a lot of great points in this video, but there is something I would like everyone to remember: it’s ok to do things simply because you enjoy them, if they aren’t interfering with other aspects of your life.
It’s also just as ok to stop doing those things if they no longer bring you joy.
For sure. If half of your day is taken up by gaming, you definitely need to take back one step. One solution that I think would benefit more people is to quit competitive games, especially ones with insanely high skill ceilings. I quit those kinds of games last year, and I havent gone back ever since. My game time has decreased at least around 80% daily on average, and im studying and exercising much more, while still enjoying something I love.
@@kronikz_2210 omg yes! I spend far less time gaming now that I've quit competitive games like battle royales and stuff, I also enjoy gaming again because I don't have some try hard ruining the experience. I do still play online but only cooperative games, chucked a few hours into lethal company here and there since it was released.
@@kronikz_2210 Yeah this is a hugely important point. I was really confused by this video until I realised he was talking _solely_ about PvP gaming, and not about narrative/exploration focused games, things like RDR or Alan Wake or TLoU etc. I think people who enjoy those games shouldn't feel like it's an issue unless there are visible problems in life that they're neglecting.
@@LDillon yeah because story driven games are not that addicting, it's just like watching a series of a saga of a film but you play instead of just watching it, sandbox games or pvp games takes a lot of time, maybe even open-world because u explore so much that you just don't know how much time you've spent playing
@@andyluan7183 100% exactly! I think he makes out that gaming as a hobby is the problem, but really it's those specific types of games and that approach to trying to 'master' a PvP game that's the issue
Congrats you have unlocked the achivement "grown up". Only 23.6% players have this achivement unlocked.
Gaming is for every age.
@@chilldoc9638 true, but not every body should be playing, some people meed to grow up
@@ethansavatar1815 what are u talking about "growing up" it's a medium for EVERYONE, with games with age ratings for kids up to old people
@@chilldoc9638 True, but there needs to be a balance.
@@ethansavatar1815 It's considered a hobby for a reason.
Today, I've finally decided to quit video games. I've been working on self improvement and realized that my time is too valuable to waste playing video games. I also realized that video games drag me back into procrastination and junk food and laziness. So I'm done. It was difficult for me to do because I have made friendships from gaming communities, But I've realized that I need friends in real life that I can go out and do things with and that all the other friends I made were only because of video games. This is my final step in starting a new life, a better one.
How’s it going?
Good luck to you bro.
Update?
I know this coming 2-year-old But you said you wanted to Self improve yourself You don't need to stop playing video games do that you just need to prioritize what you're doing And you need to figure out how are you going to improve yourself Did you figure that out how are you going to do that In what way would you improve yourself Mentally Spiritually Physically how are you going to do that And you have a nice day And I know this is been a year But I hope you resume Thanks
I’m lazy because I have adhd and autism and ocd so ya
This video hit too close to home (my old comment got deleted since my old channel got banned for some stupid reason, so I'm posting this comment again) I relate 100% with all the stuff you said in this video and you have no idea how happy it makes me that I'm not alone. I was a kid that grew up with a nintendo DS, playing pokemon and zelda games, until I eventually got an ipad to play minecraft PE lite on, and that was my very first "love" because I found myself instantly hooked onto that game as well as getting to meet so many different people. Which also led me to watching several minecraft youtubers for over the span of several years, it became my childhood, my safe-haven, my escape from reality, it became a part of my identity. And the same was with an mmorpg (final fantasy 14). But it eventually hit me that I couldn't keep playing these games forever, that I no longer enjoyed them, that I ended up using them to escape my responsibilities, and it really hit me when you said "It's almost as if I was trying to hold onto my childhood" which was exactly my case. I've gone cold turkey again, and I'm planning on moving forward with my life without these vices. I'm grateful for all the past memories, experiences, and laughs I shared with the people I got to spend it with growing up, but like you said, with all good things, they all eventually must come to an end, and we need to accept that. I wouldn't trade my past for anything in this world, and I wouldn't change a single thing if I had to go back. People say nostalgia is sad because "you don't get to be a kid anymore" or "Those were the good old days, I wanna go back, I hate the present right now". But the past doesn't have to be sad, if anything, I see my past as my "inner child" and I use it as an inspiration to live a more fulfilling life in the present as well as "make the child version of me proud by growing into the best version of myself". Nostalgia can be healing, showing you that you've had brighter days, and that the world isn't over, if you were able to be so happy back then, then you should be able to find things that also give you a great sense of joy once more, even to the point of *surpassing* your childhood days. But don't dwell on the past to where it makes you hate the present, to where it makes you sad and depressed because you can't go back in time, that's the unhealthy side of nostalgia. Don't be sad it's gone, be happy that it happened, do everything in your power to surpass those memories in joy, happiness, and fulfillment. And I'm sure that'll make the kid version of you very proud :) Go meet new people, go on real life adventures, become successful in your career, build a fantastic body in the gym, get lost in a wonderful book, go see the world and experience all there is to experience. Do all the things you *couldn't* have done as a kid, and then you will realize, how much you've grown as a person, and that no amount of games, nor nostalgia could ever even replicate this amount of satisfaction and fulfillment. Thanks for making this video, it makes us ex-gamers feel heard and seen 🔥
This dopamine rush of hitting headshots on FPS games gets people hooked like a drug. We keep chasing that high, and when we don't get it, we get irritated, upset, angry. However, whenever we get that high, it feels amazing. And we keep chasing that high forever. It's an addiction. Even pro players feel this.
It really is a trap that might ruin your life.
Yikes that is true!!
I think the main issue with video games is that too many people treat it as a way of life rather than as just another form of entertainment or art. I think it's fantastic to admire the world building of games like Detroit Become Human or Celeste but people don't just appreciate the art. A lot of people just play the games and get sucked straight into the world and associate with the characters and join the fandom. I'm not saying that's "the wrong way to play games" but some people just take the hobby too far.
Throughout watching this video I was heavily reminded of a point made by Bo Burnham in the 2021 comedy special "Inside". He basically says that (with social media) people spend so much time trying to build an internet presence that they treat the real world just as a way to access the virtual one, which for some people is more real. Personally, I'm at a point where I really only ever play games to review them for videos. So I don't really feel the point that I'm not accomplishing anything because I'm getting paid to do what I enjoy. But I really couldn't imagine myself still playing games if it weren't for RUclips.
Hi H0rr0r
I just cried like a fucking baby within the first 10 seconds of this video. It hit me that i’m actually going to give up gaming, the thing i’ve spent the most time doing in my life since i was 6 years old. Had no idea it would be this emotional, but it just shows how much it’s taken over my life and identity. Damn. Haven’t cried like that in awhile
I totally feel what you feel man. It’s something we all go through when quitting. It’s way more emotional than logical
You don't have to quit, you can prioritize other things above gaming
Dude if you dont like the taste of shit dont eat it. If you like a game youll play it. Clearly you dont like any anymore. Stop acting like its a crack addiction youre giving up
@@aronsegali hat this whole gaming is all bad and "you need to grow up" mindset theres thousands of people with lives carears and children who play to relax and the second just look at indie games
I'm nearly 34 years old. Almost 3 years ago broke a cycle of addiction and found a new way to live. Video games were a big part of what helped me cope with no longer using substances to change how I feel, but what once was a crutch for me has begun to feel more like a prison. You have helped me come to terms with what I was afraid I knew. Video games have become the new drug for me. This farewell letter to not only video games but an entire version of yourself has pierced through whatever was still holding me back. Tomorrow I will begin selling my gaming PC and working towards the next version of myself. Thank you so much my friend.
Thank you so much for writing all of this down, it means the world to me. I am grateful for thr fact that the story of my journey helped you on yours. Good luck to you ❤️
I believe that similar to food, there are both low-quality "junk" video games and high-quality "healthy" video games.
Junk games, such as PUBG, LOL, Overwatch, and CS, are designed to repeatedly draw you in without any sense of closure, leading to a never-ending cycle of starting new games.
On the other hand, healthy games allow you to experience a story crafted by artists, filled with emotional depth, problem-solving challenges, plot twists, and a it actually has an end. It's very often single player games or coop games.
Whether or not you decide to play video games, just avoid toxic junk games that can trap you in an endless time sink.
Agreed! I play only ‘meaningful’ games, with well-crafted stories that make me reflect on human nature! Examples include Last of Us, and God of War.
I think I agree with you on this one. I also play trash game and I guess I should stop doing it now.
But I don't ever think saying someone should continue playing when they are in a bad situation is a good thing. I mean people have some problems in real life. Maybe they are poor or they have other problems or real life dream. who know? We should let's them chase their own priority and don't give drugs to them when they aren't healthy to get high.
Maybe after a really long break they will try new way of gaming back? But I hope they can chase their own hapiness first before we talking about enjoying games. I still think there are more good things to enjoy first and sooner than video games.
I wouldn't necessarily go as far as calling them "junk" games. They can definitely their own levels of depth and they of course take a crap ton of work to make, but I do agree with your general sentiment in that you're separating these live service games from single player, narrative games that have very concrete and definite endings.
I don't think the type of game matters, I think it's your relationship with video games that matters. If you're sinking gross amounts of time into games, and neglecting your life then yes you should probably give them up for a while. If you play casually, whether that's a single player with a great story and artwork, or jumping on call of duty and just playing a few maps here and there for a bit of fun, then there's nothing wrong with that.
That being said, I think video games do have a way of sneaking in more and more. They have inherent addictive qualities and provide a false sense of achievement and easy dopamine hits. I'd say you're better off cultivating other hobbies and skills instead.
I actually decided to quit today - prior to watching this video. But this solidifies my decision. Thank you for making this. I wish I did this at your age instead of 46. The hours that I sacrificed away from real family and friends I will never get back - But now I will turn that time into getting healthy again, spending time with my family and actually maybe making some friends again! Hopefully many in our shoes can come to the realization of all of this before it is too late.
Proud of you man! Glad I could help you on your journey❤️
For some people it's movies, for others it's shows, for others it's books, and for some it's games. It doesn't matter how you spend your time, just spend it wisely and spend it doing things you enjoy. There's no need to "quit" video games indefinitely and treat them as some sort of drug you must avoid relapsing on, it's all about balance. If you decide you're not in the mood to game right now? That's fine, as humans we have dozens of hobbies and interests by nature, but never shut them out completely. There's thousands of life changing experiences and stories that can be told, felt, and experienced through the medium (The Last of Us, Dark Souls [Dark Souls literally helped me cope with suicidal depression and helped teach me the importance of never giving up], the list goes on and on) not to mention just having some good old fashioned fun! Who doesn't love running a game of Wii Sports bowling from time to time? Heck, it's been almost 2 decades and I still do!
TLDR: there's no need to treat it like an emotional break up, this is the equivalent of saying "why I quit movies" or shows or fast food or literally any other form of entertainment that could be inserted here... not trying to be an asshole, just trying to provide a rational perspective. Do whatever you want, and do whatever makes you happy, even if it's revisiting one of your favorite games, or experiencing an entirely new one. There's thousands of experiences to be had, and there are no bounds to the wonderful experiences that await!
Exactly it's just another hobby, its not a drug.
Hi Aron, stay strong bro, I play games from 12 years old .. I'm 28 this November and I'm on my journey to stop completely from video games. Please give us updates on your journey to stop playing games
😂😂😂😂😂
Only 136 subscribers?! The editing and story telling put into this was amazing. Well done. I remember selling my WOW account and feeling like I wasted so much time and money while gaining nothing. 😃
Thank you so much! I never even dared trying out WOW, because I knew I would be hooked haha! Glad you could step away!
I agree
Feels like a channel with 100k subs
I quit video games about 2 weeks ago. I have big ambitions that I want to chase in my life and I remember sitting at my desk staring at a title screen thinking about what else I could be doing and how I'm wasting my life away. I was repeating the same day over and over again with nothing changing or evolving. I had close to failing grades in school because all I wanted to do when I got home was get online. It's a tough choice also because this is how I connect with alot of long distance irl friends, but I know it has to go. I've been having doubts, but this video just sealed the deal for me. Thanks dude.
I am very glad I could help! Good luck on your journey!
Any updates on your life? 🧐
Hey, I'm thinking about quitting video game completely. Do you have any advice? What's it like without playing video games?
I’ve always understood the dopamine hit drive of video games, but the idea that they can hijack your drive for achievement or motivation in the outside world is definitely something to ponder. Well done on a great video.
Ur god damn right, this video made me actually almost cry. You said so many facts that I did not even relalize, that just wants me to quit video games and focus on life which means, studying, getting successful, good grades, getting well educated and a good job that will make you reach your goal, rich and a very happy life. Thank you for bringing this video with so many informations up. Wish yall success in life.
First year after quitting is easy, but then you start to feel like you are in control and little bit of fun won't hurt, but it is very easy to get sucked back into old habits. They will tell you to balance and not be so hard on yourself, but you should never risk wasting another phase of your life.
Narrated `Aisha:
that the Prophet (ﷺ) married her when she was six years old and he consummated his marriage when she was nine years old. Hisham said: I have been informed that `Aisha remained with the Prophet (ﷺ) for nine years (i.e. till his death).
Just play games in moderation. You use games as a means to "experience" something. Obviously we play games, in my case, fantasy ones because we'll never be able to conjure up a magic spell. It's like reading a book, watching a Movie or a TV show. It's Art or a form of entertainment. Never in your life should you commit so hard to gaming unless you know full well, you will succeed in becoming a professional player. Reality can't be escaped. You must always have a plan B.
Here's something that I know anyone can definitely succeed in, and that's the ability to educate (learn ANYTHING). Make yourself of Value and pass on what you know. That in itself, is fulfilling and learning will never go away. It is in human nature to evolve and adapt. This video itself is educating you in some way as well. Good luck.
@@Jk-qx7gm Yes you can compare it, I just did. Addiction doesn't have to come from something competitive. You have people playing Skyrim and constantly modding it with thousand upon thousands of hours too. I myself have played non-competitve games with hours close to you.
I do agree with you that some games just cant ever be left forever or gaming in general, hence moderation or breaks are important.
It's funny. I don't see people telling others to stop drawing or making art. Regardless, doing anything specific will always have transferable skills.
@@Jk-qx7gm So your addiction is caused by needing/having to feel relevant in a videogame. Yeah, I know full well you can obviously finish all the games i'd play in a month considering your competitive nature.
However, I don't really see your last point because if that's the case. Everyone must be addicted to their hobby or job. Everyone must be looking for an excuse because they just spends "hours" on something. If You don't have the ability to stop at your own will without an external factor stopping you Example, having to work to pay the bills. Then you are addicted to whatever it is. That's why Moderation is key to never feeling like, in our instance "Gaming" is a waste of time.
I get it, It's REQUIRED for you to be there but it's unfortunate, that's how the RUST community was made into and it's completely your own choice to let it consume you into playing. So therefore, Its a YOU problem. Not Gaming in general.
@@Jk-qx7gm Why are you trying so hard to prove it's an external problem and it's never about you? You can get all the help in the world but you know what? Who has to change? YOU, YOURSELF. Yeah I get it. Some people are just so defeated, they don't want to bother anymore. They really only need one hand to support them but it's up to them in the end.
Yeah, I could've learned to become an experienced pilot or whatever but that's a choice. Yes I can see the issue with spending time on entertainment. That's exactly what my comment was about, "Doing things in moderation", so you don't spend ALL your time on entertainment/videogames. That doesn't mean you have to drop what you love/like to do.
Just because I also have nearly all those hours doesn't mean, I or You, never had the time to educate ourselves in something academic/useful either.
Also "Moderation is important mate, i know you are homeless, you tried quitting for 10 years but just get some moderation, its your problem not Drugs in general". If that's your best attempt at trying to help someone out or how you think I'd talk to someone about their issues. That's a low way to go about it.
The context is ADDICTION with gaming/entertainment. Not Im homeless, i do drugs now and im also an alcoholic addiction? Where did that even come from? You don't even HAVE to consume anything physically when playing or watching something. Don't put something else in there. It's not the same.
@@raphmoite These videos are usually made by people who were addicted to competitive games, they were addicted and that's why when they stop they see a huge change in their lives...but while they played 8 hours non-stop another guy somewhere only played 1 hour or so and then went to the gym to exercise or work... but since they couldn't play moderately they believe that everyone who plays is addicted... I'm 28 years old and I love playing them and I don't think I'll ever stop playing them. I have a work go to the gym and this year I ran two marathons but for them to do all this is impossible if you don't stop playing games... and some people are just stupid they just hate that people are having fun playing games lol
I really appreciate this video, man. I've been watching Hamza talk about quitting games too. Sometimes I'll go back to watch some gamer videos just see realize how little they actually mean.
Quitting videogames has been one of the best deciaions of my life. I achieved extraordinary things and grew exponentially. I now own a new corvette and house and travel every month all over the world, living my life to the fullest. Some of my friends still play videogames at 22-23 and have absolutely nothing to their name except a rank in a pointless game. They wasted their youth chasing a feeling and have no sign of quitting. Its sad
Nothing matters.
@@lowfade3273 get your shit together and make it matter
Inspiring stuff, brother, keep up the great work. I also aspire to achieve similar results with hard work and persistence, video games are just a shitty, cheaper substitute for what we truly want in life. And unfortunately, we can't unplug everyone from the vice, but we can only continue to lead and inspire through example. We have our whole life ahead of us and the fact that we made this realization earlier on, shows the great things we'll achieve in the future. Let's keep crushing it 🤝
@@lukasz4282i already have and i still get to play games when i want and i have a car. You have to hide from game controllers like an ex crack addict and youre telling US to get our shit together?💀💀💀💀🤣👍
You legit sound like a salty bastard who was never good at any games💀😂 get a life mate.
Just cus you dont like them you dont have to preach your andrew tate alpha male shit to us
" i have a car i travel iii have awife iii have moneyy ymy friends habr nothing but in a rank game mwuahahahaha i have no ballsss i mean "💀👀
I had a break up and got super depressed, so games didn't feel fun anymore, and new games all seemed the same. Once I got out of my depression, I realized how productive I had gotten (no social media either). Now I barely crave those things since I know I can be doing plenty of other things
I recently have been going through a very similar experience, and am now going on 3 months without playing. I feel more productive as I go outside now instead of looking at my TV.
@@larf1247 Glad to hear that! I'm on a few years now, and sometimes I feel like I live in a different world then most people.
I also had a breakup around a year ago and that was a catalyst for many things, including this. I guess all of us aren’t all that different after all!
I'm going through a break up right now. I'm going to quit video games as well and use my time for other healthy hobbies like music gym etc
Thanks to videos like this, I will continue to live my life as a non-gamer. It's especially hard when you have to relearn lost social skills with people. I never had real friends in my youth except for colleagues in the multiplayer world.
My first goals are to prepare myself for my further professional career, to bring my body, which is in a bad physical condition, back into a fitter state and finally to get to the bottom of the mysteries of friendships and human relationships. The road will not be easy, but at the age of 19 it is high time for this change. My brain must finally learn not to avoid the problems in the real world, but to find a solution!!!!!
Hell yeah man, that's what I am talking about. Love that you feel this way. Keep at it!
This video helped me out to also make the life-changing decision to quit videogames, at least for indeterminate time. I got at gaming slightly later than you, when I was 7-8 years back in 2012, with a Nintendo Wii as a gift from the 2011 Christmas. And just like you, it also shaped my personality as I grew up in those years, the main ones that marked me where Mario Kart Wii, NFS Nitro, Forza Motorsport 3, Forza Horizon 1, Gran Turismo 5, Gravity Rush 1 and most recently Gran Turismo 7, and I regret nothing by playing them, since it's thanks to them that I became who I am. But as my Philosofy teacher said in my school graduation "to achive your goal, you must leave some things behind, like a astronaut leave parts of his spaceship behind to arrive at the moon", and now it's time to leave gaming behind, because if I keep holding to it for a little bit longer it will harm me more than they were already harming me, with my favourite franchise, Gran Turismo, stagnating (Gran Turismos are great, but since GT2, all of them have been launched incomplete, and some creative choices were... questionable) and having a toxic fanbase (cof cof Roflwaffle cof cof), NFS being mediocre, Forza hitting the rock bottom with FM23 and the Horizon spin-off bringing nothing new to the table with FH5, while franchises like Gravity Rush, Ridge Racer and Burnout being dead for quite some time now. Now you might be asking "why don't you stick with your older games", it's because the became very familiar (aka boring) with the time, so the fun has being dwindling quite fast. Not to mention that gaming started to make me struggle at my personal life, with my divorced mother struggling to get the bills paid (and I have a 4 consoles and a simrig, so yeah, we wasted a lot of money with gaming) and I struggling in my first semester in college, reproving in one of the disciplines thanks to me worrying more about what's the next GT7 update rather than taking good grades at college, and I have depression, so I need a strong motivation to wake up everyday, which is building cars (I'm a car guy deep to the heart, and working with what I love would be a dream becoming true), and I won't accept losing everything to videogames. It's time to stop, at least for now. It has been 2 weeks since I stopped and I noticed how hard I embraced this goal, since in such a short time I don't identify as a gamer anymore, at least not as much. My next goal is to reach 1 month in gaming detox, and spending the spare time life in learning more about engineering, so I'll keep up with the class and hopefully reach the goal of becoming a mechanical engineer in the end of this decade. For now, I just have to thank you for helping me to but my life back in the rails, and wishing you good luck in your new life too! Cheers from Passo Fundo, Brazil!🇧🇷🤝🇭🇺
I was in a dilemma on whether to quit videogames and i have been reading alot of articles on the effects of videogames on students. I'm about to enter into college in a few weeks and i was deciding on whether i have to take videogames with me or leave them behind. This video is a perfect representation on what videogames are and the effects it has on our lives. Many points are beautifully explained and gets straight to the point. Thank you so much.
Glad I could help! Thanks for your comment!
I just typed this video up because i think ill be happier in the long run if i quit. Its kinda like an addiction
Hi, as someone in college in Finance, if I could give you one advice it would be to quit video games or limit it to 1 hour / day at the end of your study as a reward because video games ruined alot of thigs for me and I wish I could've quit earlier.
How about you hmmm.. decide for yourself ? Fuck me .. who woulda thought you.. yes YOU would know wether like games or not😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
this legit just made me cry. i fell pretty much just like you felt, friend. I'm 16 years old, turning 17 in aprill of 2024 and I still fell that a big part of my life was blurred due to videogames. I've had a lot of fun and great time with it, but I still fell like I could have achieved so much more in my life if it wasn't for my videogame addiction (and it is recent that I actually accepted that it was indeed an addiction)
and as I aproach the last year of highschool here in Brazil (basically the year that dictates whether we're going to university or not) I start to realize that games shouldn't be such a big part of my life anymore. In less than 2 years, I'll offcialy be an adult. and as times pass, videogames tend to be less fun and I also tend to have less time do dedicate to them
and watching this video made me more aware of that, more aware that I'm actually growing up and that I have to leave my infancy behind. when the minecraft music started playing at the end, it all hit me like a truck. I finally realize now that I'm entering a new phase of my lafe, a phase that doesn't include videogames
seriously, thank you so much for this realization
I hope this video can get to more people so it can make a difference in their lifes like it made in mine
all the best
I’m 17 turning 18 in Oct 2024 and i play games every day and don’t have a job . I failed a couple classes too because I was so addicted to games . When covid started I just got out of middle school and I thought I didn’t have to do anything . Starting Monday I will quit games . I just want to reflect on the battle I had since I was 6
I quit 5 months ago along with other addictions such as social media and marijuana and i gotta say my life is more productive and I’m more motivated. Plus my mental health is definitely better and it feels good to put my time into more important things in life.
What did u to to distract ur mind from wanting to go back to it?
im 30 and its still hard to break. i just dont download games anymore. anyone reading this I hope you put the control down more and start livinglife. addiction is real and gaming is manufactured to it. 360 days were the golden era for me. I wish I put 1000 of hrs into a productive skill. kudos to all those who grew and became a better person.
Well edited, well put out.
You might be only 20, but you have conceptualized an idea that people only understand later in their life, some of them never do.
I'm 23, and i also decided to move up to the next stage in life..
It's slow and difficult, but slow is better than being stuck.
"Would winning actually be winning?" I like that a lot
Literally my exact thoughts in one single video. Completely addicted to video games since 10 years old. Finally let go of it at 22. I am much more present, patient and less anxious now with family, friends, partners and teachers. Life is getting better.
I don't miss gaming either. In fact, I wish I had quit a little earlier. And still, I find myself able to look back at all those years when I was much younger and say: "yeah, those were fun times... " and just carry on with my daily activities as a new adult.
"It's almost as if I was trying to hold onto my childhood." OH man, the conclusion made me emotional! This video was really well-made, good job.
This video is very moving and so we'll done. You should be absolutely so proud of yourself for the level of introspection you have at such a young age. Good for you. Keep up the good work!
I received this video recommendation after watching 'Gaming Addiction Cycle' from 'Low Budget Stories,' and I feel that, for me, it was quite different. I still play video games even after being married and at 33 years old, but I choose very wisely what I want to play. I gave up on wanting to be the best at a game and being competitive because I don't have time to train, and I don't want to stress out. I manage my time to do all I have to do and also set aside time for fun. Playing is a really good thing for me because it relieves my stress and distracts my mind when I'm anxious about things I can't control. Ultimately, the thing is dopamine; if you always play or always do something you like, you will often lose interest in it. So, I try to dose my brain's dopamine and get days without playing or reward myself with an hour or two of playing if I accomplish all my obligations in life. And that's how it works for me.
@@Jk-qx7gm actually no, I don't really much about competitive games, I aways preferred co-op! 😊
But when I was teenager indeed I loved Combat Arms for example... Lol
@@Jk-qx7gmand competitive games sucks just like your toxic comment
Thank you for sharing your story, very inspirational. It would be great to see another video from you in a few months time, or a year, to see how things have changed.
The most touching story I have heard, today I sold my gaming Xbox series X and PC. I didn’t want to but I had to for money, I cried packing everything up, every little thing. What touched me was when you saying something about “still wanting to be a kid, or “holding on to you’re childhood. I’ve been gaming since I was age 4 and now I am 24, all of those years I realized how much time I have wasted and how I only used games to escape life and problems. This video helped me through a lot because now I need to explore other healthy ways to endure my free time. Thank you for this video so much, it touched me and I cried through parts of it because I can relate. Cheers to the future of my already 24 years to my life, time to let my childhood go and move on into adulthood. Thank you so much for creating this video.
Man, thank you so much for writing this down. It truly means the world for me.
I wish you luck on your journey ❤️
I appreciate you putting your story out there. There is a shift happening for those who want to live life full out. I decided to leave gaming 4 years ago and go on a journey to help those quit gaming and playing full out in life. You have a purpose man, keep leveling up in life 🙏🏽
Thanks for the kind words, I respect you helping others out there!
Ive been thinking about quitting video games for many yesrs but have always talked myself out of it... and here you come, making this perfectly made, well written video. Fine, you got me. Thanks friend.
Thank you so much for this video, The accountability and realization of so much is insane. I needed this….Thank you.
I am glad it helped
I'm thinking of doing the same thing. Since having my son who's now 18 months old, I just cannot find the time, nor the energy to want to play games anymore. I feel now I have so much else to do that gaming just isn't as interesting as it was before I had a child to look after. Now I'd rather sleep instead of staying up ungodly hours playing games, use the time to actually do things that need to be done like house chores, spending time with my partner and son. I love gaming and always have, but I think there comes a time where you just kind of grow out of it, and I feel like I'm reaching that point. Even when I do have some time and boot up a game, I'll play for like 10 minutes and I'm already finding myself just doing something else on my phone or I just get up and leave. Maybe one day when I have free time again I'll return to it, but I think for now I am just going to stop gaming and focus on more important things.
im planning to quit video game today cause i want to focus more about study and school works im very young im like at grade 7 well my teacher said "This is where all your Journey start" my teacher said that in our last online class i realise that gaming is not permanent and not the reason why im alive/born.
Hey buddy! All power to you! The fact that you have already understood this at such a young age is incredible. I wish I was more like you at your age!
Good luck on your journey, we are all rooting for you! ❤️
Bruh
@@wantedfortaxfraud i dont actually use this channel too much my younger brother use this much and uploading random things.
honestly it all starts in high school since those grades will count towards getting into college. But if you want to start studying early I would recommend that like if you get into programming or something you can learn online
Amazing that you realized this at your age. Stick with it. You'll be so glad you did this when you reach age 20, 30 or 40. Your life will be completely different. For the better.
I honestly wanna say Thank you so much for helping me realize I needed to quit playing I used to play for 10+ hours every single day and wouldn’t sleep or eat but I wanted to experience real life and go places instead of playing online games with fake friends
I'm about done with gaming myself, I've spent hours grinding video games trying to reach 1 million gamerscore and I got close at 725 thousand then get hit with a ban hammer from the Xbox Enforcement team, saying I cheated when I didn't. So thanks Microsoft you've brought a guy close to depression I've ever came close too
I think RUclips is trying to tell me something at this point. This is about the tenth video about quitting video games that came across my feed 😮💨
just play games in moderation. It's fine to have an escape from reality, as long as you realize that's all it is. Obviously if you have a gut feeling to quit then do it, but in this mindset every single form of entertainment or thing that is not productive is a waste. In that scenario, life gets pretty boring
Totally agree, moderation would be the ideal scenario. It just never worked for me personally. I had to go cold turkey haha
It depends on the person. Some people can't play in moderation without slipping back into addiction.
No such things as moderation. Video game addiction is like meth to a drug addict. It doesn't stop.
@@intoxicviii did bro really really compare video games to drugs 💀
@@Travixty Well it’s not that bad of a comparison, think of a person addicted to drugs. They are also chasing a dopamine hit for a short amount of time. Also think of a gambler they would risk losing everything just to chase the pleasure of winning. My point is not everyone can do certain things in moderation and it’s best for them to just quit all together.
Hey this was great man thank you. I've been gaming since I got my N64 in 1998 at age 6, im gonna be 32 next week but my addiction has been at it's peak the past few months. I took notes with pen and paper as I was watching the video. You're incredibly intelligent and observant and in-being so you have shone a light on some of the key aspects of why video game addiction can be harmful and how to rationalize it. This video hit HARD haha, I love how you put this together. I am going to begin my journey either this weekend or after/on my birthday.
I’m 47…and just now realizing I need to let go of online gaming. I’ve been gaming all my life. Since the early 80’s. I owned the original and first gaming system. Intellivision and then Atari and Colecovision. I only play a couple of hours a day on my days off, and it hasn’t affected my life as a whole, but it’s definitely a big waste of time and it often makes me feel worse when I’m done. I wonder how much more I could have accomplished with all those hours I’ve spent gaming. Well said. All of it. You nailed it. Games are essentially a big distraction. Such a thoughtful, well put together, and inspiring video.
Honestly thinking about giving up gaming. I'm 22 now & been playing videogames since like 5 years old. COD & Madden, the only games/franchise I ever enjoy have went down a black hole. The fun I used to have isn't there & its going to destroy my mental health if I keep playing them. I'm at a point where I'm about to graduate with a Bachelors degree & I have no clue what to do in my future. Gaming has been my life but I don't want a career in that industry. Being a RUclipsr or as they call it now, an "Influencer" would be awesome but trying to fake enjoyment in videogames content on multiple YT channels isn't going to make that happpen. I suppose it's time to learn how to drive a car, graduate, & figure out my 9-5 job so I can build my own Basketball gym/warehouse. What will I do after that goal is accomplished is up in the air.
You now realize that every achievement you had in every video game you have played, none of them really happened, it was just a bunch of meaningless pixels.
preach
Well you could say that about life too. Everything's just a bunch of subatomic particles, and we are all goign to die someday.
@@falkeborg9432Gaming itself doesn’t provide any meaningful benefits while also providing entertainment, books for example are entertaining whilst also improving your reading comprehension skills, vocabulary & grammar, and most importantly, improving one’s literacy.
@@d3ucez that is true for the most part, but if you think about it gaming (generally FPS games) can improve your hand to brain coordination, reflex, and focus. And even non FPS games can increase skills such as Sanbox games that can improve creativity and such
@@SuzushiiSakana I’m not disagreeing with you per say, but I simply believe that those same benefits are more applicable to other outdoor activities and forms of art
I am literally the same as you and i also had this epiphany moments in 3AM where i caught myself sitting in front of computer all alone in 3AM where everyone else are resting sleeping etc.I remember getting out and walking alone in the streets thinking wtf i am doing with my life.
Its not only gaming, people are now days addicted to smartphones, social media, watching endless RUclips videos, tv series, porn and what not. Mostly watching sceens hours In everyday...its all the same. People are distracting themselves from all their own and world's problems but its not only that, its easy to be distracted because there never before was a time In history that there was so much distractions and enternteinment devices and platforms available than today.
It was so much more simple when there was only simple phones with what u could call and send messages, when there was not all kinds of Netflix, facebooks or game passes or internet dating sites. People went out to meet friends or dates, has more physical hobbies, family times were spend together doing something nice together instead of sitting In same room but everyone being more busy with their phones than talking to eachother like today.
Life was better In 90's and early 2000. Even still early 2010 things were quite good because everything was still more simple, new and exiting.
Thank God I experienced those times. Enternteinment was going to movies or going to ice-skating or going to beach together with friends or something like that. If playing some video games, friends were physically at your place playing and socialising with you... there was maybe cooking together and other things too what real life friends do.
No Wonder today depression and mental health issues are so common. All the social medias and connecting devices and still people are more lonely than ever before.
As someone who both plays video games and does things in the real world like martial arts, I'd never compromise real world fun for gaming. I feel a lot better playing games after I'm through with my day than playing while I know the day is passing by. Video games become something I do as a way to chill after I'm done with the rest. I also have the habit of focusing on one game at a time, so I end up not playing that much
I am a University student currently in my 3rd Year of B.Tech CSE and Today or the moment from when I am posting this comment I am finally going to quit playing Video Games after playing it for ~13 or 14 years. Your video really has embarked something inside of me to do something meaningful in life rather than wasting my coming years in this cycle of virtual world to hit those dopamine levels.
I thought life was worthless and I am of no value, but maybe it will change now knowing I wasn't alone who has done nothing meaningful for society or even myself.
I sincerely thank you 💜 for making this video. I am hoping for a better future from here on and I will do my best.
Thank you so much for writing this down❤️. It really means the world to me. I am very glad that I could help, good luck with your journey! See you at the top ;)
@@aronsegal Will meet you at Top then. 🔥
now you can study more & get A+. thanks for the post
I decided to quit this fucking habit 😢
Video Gamers are the Matrix : You have to understand. Most people are not ready to be unplugged. And many of them are so inured and so hopelessly dependent on the system that they will fight to protect it. " I realized this in my 20's and it is something I have battled since I realized this , I have to not watch gaming content because it looks so fun and appealing, it is a battle everyday just like a drug addiction. Stay Strong everyone
Its just another hobby. lol
@@Mark-xp4fw it is just another hobby but they don't see it like that because they were adics ,,they don't think a guy can play games and do other stuff lol
Sounds like something taters would say.
In movies, there's no inherent challenge to conquer, no actual labor or futile exertion leading to losses. Movies and novels engender a sense of fascination, while games offer a wholly different form of escapism. When you engage in reading or watching narratives, it's easy to pause at will. Essentially, the surge of dopamine triggered by games is remarkably potent. Dopamine, a natural component of human stimulation, remains necessary, even if these experiences are essentially storytelling - in one of them, you're actively in control.
Good for you, my friend. You go and live your life.
I had a very similar experience 3 weeks ago. I got a revelation and became sick around my ps5 and decided to quit after I was about to do something "big". I then realized that everything that I have been doing for the last 5 years was for nothing and that I hated it. I had to get rid of all reminders of my gaming experience to not cause anxiety or sickness. It's the strangest experience I think I've had in a long time, but I thank God that I am saved from the endless psychological torture I trapped myself in. I cut my hair which used to be 35cm, I am paying attention to my university and getting assignments done on time. Video games have destroyed my body, I used to play basketball and karate. My knee was sprained 1 and some weeks now and will hopefully start working out soon.
For anyone with and addictive personality that’s quit video games, good for you. With that being said, for some of those people that quit don’t look down on people who still play video games as if their less of a men cause they still do so. Because not everyone has and addictive personality and some people actually know how to create a balance and keep games in there place.
Now for persons that still play, are addicted and find some hobbies you enjoy more than gaming. It makes it easier to give up on video games when you have something to replace it with.
I think i have an addicted personality because i always get too addicted when i try it once and can't moderate it so i'm quitting gaming 5-9months straight
@@yongk1n672 Good for you. My father is the same way, that’s why he doesn’t play games. He stopped years ago before I was born cause of his addictive personality. I hope you make it to a year straight
Amazing production mate,
I did same and put it all into coding and are now a Sys admin making over 140K and work remote!
Wow, good to hear that
I don't comment on much my brother, but I really have to say well done.
Great video, great content, and I love the end where you said all things have an ending that really resonated with me. Wishing you luck with your new journey.
Thank you so much!
11hrs? And I always thought 2 or 3 was bad. I'm a grown adult too. I only play story mode games that I can go my pace. I bought battlefield 4 months ago and I'm barely level 30. You made it a chore man.
You can tell me all you want about how video games are a drug and nothing else, world, but every time you tell me through others that my greatest passion is a meaningless, maladaptive addiction, I can only keep telling you that I really do love what I do. I’ll be a gamer at heart until the day I die.
Yup, me too. I know they can be problematic, but they also bring me joy so whatever.
I had a certain list of video games I've been after to actually track down and buy. Recently, i purchased the last one on my list i was looking for. After that, i started really looking at what I'd been doing with my life. Sucks that i got them, and now no longer have the urge to play them. Quitting with no regrets.
great video , i played video games from a young age over 20 years then i started making games for 3 years but making games put me in the same situation as playing games. chasing after that dopamine rush and constantly seeking some kind of social interaction or validation from others , it is pure time consumption and a false sense of reality for alot of us who are consumed by gaming . long story short started focusing on my mental health and physical health through working out , no longer have depression or anxiety or the feeling of loneliness all i feel is solace with more motivation and a sense of self understanding staying away from game culture and social media like instagram , facebook , tiktok etc so many of us seek validation from others when we should be seeking validation for ourselves to find our happiness in life and our own identity walking our own path in life
My friend at school ( I like to think we’re friends but I know he doesnt think of me that way) brought up how he quit video games in a conversation and I always admired his life choices so that led me to RUclips
I wish I moved on when I was like 14 I could have enjoyed my school years as a teen much more. I felt very touched by the video for some reason, thank you for making me quit again🙏 I ll try to find success in real life instead of video games. Sadly I can’t go back in time, so I made a big mistake and regret it. I m stopping now!
Thank you for sharing this, I haven't played video games in a few days now and I feel like there's so much more to life and I enjoy everyday more than before. I'm definetly going to share this to everyone I know.
Congratulation, Aron, I wish more people (specially young) watch this video in order to make them wake up to this illusion.
Yikes
I guess we all get here eventually, or at least I would hope so. But the sooner the better!
Hey there, thanks so much for the video ^^, can I ask you something?@@aronsegal
14:53 hit close to home. I just played Minecraft after a year and couldn’t play it for more than 10 min. Why struggle in an open world when I could do it in the real world? That’s when it hit me that I’ve grown up. And I got reminded of this video and decided to come back. Thank you for making this video and helping me realize that being a grown up isn’t all that bad.
Man this is the epiphany I should have felt earlier in my life, but it is very true!! Video games as they are built today (or was for a long time) are merely digital DRUG and causes addiction like any other. Not to mention the fact that is a totally dispensable activity for your life and a distraction for the things that are truly important.
You know I had the same realization that I thought I if I quit video games I was losing a part of my soul and I would deeply miss video games when I quit, but when I did I realized that I didn't give two rips about video games anymore and that I was having so much more fun in real life than I did spending countless hours playing video games. I'm so happy I've quit and I've never felt better in my life honestly after quitting
I have quite the same story as you have. I also started gaming as 4 year old 2006 but I enjoyed gaming alone a lot. It was fun. But why spend all my potential playing alone when we are all born with a possibility to be the change this world needs.
The same thing you can say about books, movies, music - even going out - you just sit there. If we only do the productive things - we would only work and do sport. But yeah, if you only have one hobby, your life is not as rich as it can be.
thanks for this, uninstalled every game i have. i have been playing since i can even remember and now at 20 years old i have no friends, i live alone in a shitty apartment, no job, nothing to do. stopped my ssri meds due to having anxiety when in public, now i have to actually do anything i want except gaming. we will see how it goes.
I got a good motivation boost now. I will try to gradually replace video games with piano, and please keep me responsible!
I know it will be much harder than I think now, but there is no other way.
For me, two reasons:
1) The groups I ran with were becoming increasingly toxic and hateful, and gaming alone is boring.
2) The ratio of time invested vs my other hobbies was way out of balance. I still enjoy the odd game, but I’d rather revisit the “classics” from the 80’s and 90’s than prop up the scummy and predatory shenanigans that are so rampant in the industry now (I.E games being released in an unfinished state, micro transactions, woeful DLC etc.)
Removing toxic people from your life is a big bonus
Video games have a place in your life when you're younger, maybe if you're well off or spare time but otherwise they inhibit growth and turning into an adult. Thank you for this video it incapsulates what i've been feeling thinking and experiencing. Its hard to stop but once you do You can learn new things, reading, cooking, exercising, movies, music, Thank you
bruh i thought it was a big ass youtube channel I didn't see that you had 122 subs till the end, quality is top their keep up the hard work bro
Thank you so much!
In The Stanley Parable there's an achievement called "go outside" it consists in not playing the game for 5 years, think is time to achieve it, but in a more large scale by stop playing all videogames.
I just realized that they are holding me back in life, that they are preventing me to live my life at all.
That's a game that's all about choice. Free will.
Perhaps the next choice you have to make is to walk away from gaming as whole.
Something to think about
Nothing wrong with gaming, no matter what age you are. It’s all about self discipline and moderation. Gaming has many good benefits too. No need to give up gaming completely and for good.
It's easy to quit a single player videogame but when it's come to ranked, online mode. Not gonna lie, it so difficult to stop
This video is amazing, you made like a whole movie. Keep it up.
Thank you so much!
I have never seen a singal video of yours but i think this was the most educational video ive watched in awhile
You're 110% on point about the "are they really my friends" and "the people you play with are NOT YOUR friends" part. I'm selling my Xbox now while watching this. I'll miss all the memories I had on my gaming. It's time to move on. Great video bro.
you can work hard and play games too, you don't have to give up on one thing to pursue another, not always
some apologetics here. i mean you can say the same about IRL friends. are they reaaaaaaaaaaallly your friends? i met some very stunning girls in IRL in reallife. even 800+ km away. sooo idk. it all depends on personal expirience. and this is an oxymoron, you cant miss something and move on.
good video.
im in my 30s and i spend on average 50 hours a week on counter strike. nowhere near where i want to be in life so this last few months ive had a lot of thoughts about selling
Go for it man CS is not the way hahah. (coming from someone that had like 2000 hours)
You did really great job, making this video. I feel soul in it.
That was what I was going for, glad it went through!
I've stopped gaming as well, not because of addiction but the empty accomplishment it provided was not productive. It all happened when I played a new game I was looking forward to for years, and realizing that I had more fun cleaning my backyard. This year I've taken volleyball and taking self defense classes instead, and on my lazy free time I'd just make art. It's more fulfilling when free time is spent through your development as a person, unfortunately video games doesn't provide that.
Not telling people to stop gaming, but IMO, as we grow up, we also need to watch out where we want to put our free time on, as life is short.
i feel the same way,i just play and watch time pass and have achieved nothing in my life(im 23). im trying to stop playing for 2 years now but i always come back...
For me what helped me the most is replacing gaming with things that I love doing even more (but are less of a hyperstimuli). So reading, editing videos, going to the gym etc. So essentially I focused on finding things that I would do instead of gaming.
Its sad knowing we had basically the same childhood in the way that were one of millions who got hooked
I think it’s kind of cool that we all have had a common struggle. It’s our rite of passage.
I feel like this video is going to have lots of views
I don't think I'm "addicted", but I think I should focus on other things.
alhamdulillah,
i stoped gaming from a long time ago more then a year and i really happy with the real life i started reading books, going to the gym and a lot more... and I`m back to my Allah, my religion and working for my akhirah
Alhamdulillah. I'm trying to quit.
you helped me alot. i am 35 years old with children and s business with employees. i am no longer playing games
Glad I could help! Take care