Autoplaying My Way To Completionism's End

There's a certain satisfaction that comes with conquering a game, earning every achievement, and filling out your trophy cabinet to the brim. We call these dedicated players "completionists," those who strive for absolute mastery in their gaming journeys.

But what happens when this pursuit of completion takes over? When the joy of playing fades and is replaced by a relentless grind?

👾 The Dark Side of Completionism

My own gaming journey took a turn when I encountered this "completionist pitfall" firsthand. It started innocently enough, with an achievement in a certain game that required all characters to be leveled up to 20.

The catch? Grinding for levels was tedious and repetitive. However, the game offered auto-play functionality, letting me essentially "set it and forget it" while I went about other things.

I fell into a trap—watching my game play itself just to tick off those achievements. It wasn't the fun, engaging experience I craved; it was mindless automation.

🤔 The Realization

One day, staring at my screen while my game auto-played through another match, a realization hit me. This wasn't gaming; it was watching someone else play. I'd lost the joy of the experience.

It was then that I understood—completionism had taken over, and I needed to reclaim my love for gaming.

🎮 Finding Balance – Embracing a Healthier Approach

So, how do we find that balance? How can we enjoy the satisfaction of achievements without sacrificing the joy of playing?

• ✅ Set Realistic Goals: Don't feel pressured to complete everything in a game. Choose specific achievements or goals that truly interest you.
• ✅ Prioritize Fun Over Completion: Remember, games are meant to be enjoyed. If an achievement feels like a chore, don't force yourself to do it.
• ✅ Take Breaks: Step away from the game regularly to avoid burnout. Explore other hobbies or activities to keep things fresh.
• ✅ Remember, It's Just a Game: At the end of the day, achievements are just digital badges. Don't let them overshadow the real joy of playing.

🤔 Addressing Common Concerns

You might be thinking, "What about those rare trophies or achievements? Shouldn't I try for them?" And that's fair. It's okay to have a few challenging goals, but remember:

• ✅ The Challenge is Part of the Fun: A difficult achievement can be rewarding to conquer. But don't let it consume you if it starts causing stress.
• ✅ There's No Shame in Seeking Help: If you're truly stuck on a particular challenge, don't hesitate to look for online guides or communities for assistance.

✨ Rediscovering the Joy

My journey taught me that completionism can be a double-edged sword. It's great to have goals and strive for mastery, but true enjoyment comes from finding balance and remembering why we love games in the first place.

So go out there, explore new worlds, challenge yourself, and most importantly, have fun!