10 Realistic Tips to Stop Buying New Games (And Actually Play What You Own)
The Steam Summer Sale. A surprise Nintendo Direct. That new 5-star review. The temptations to buy new games are endless, and the dopamine hit of clicking "Purchase" is real. But afterward, that new game often joins dozens of others in a digital purgatory. If you're ready to break the cycle, save money, and get more value from your collection, here are 10 realistic tips to curb your spending habits.
1. The "One In, One Out" Rule
This is the golden rule of backlog management, as mentioned in our ultimate guide to conquering your backlog. For every new game you want to buy, you must first fully complete a game you already own.
2. Unsubscribe from Marketing Emails
Out of sight, out of mind. Go into your Steam, PlayStation, and other accounts and unsubscribe from promotional emails. This is especially true for subscription services like Game Pass, which constantly advertise new additions.
3. Use a Wishlist, Not a Shopping Cart
See a game you want? Don't add it to your cart. Add it to your wishlist. This small action delays gratification and gives you time to decide if you *really* want the game. Review your wishlist once a month; you'll be surprised how many titles you're no longer interested in.
4. Set a "Backlog Goal" Before Buying
Turn clearing your backlog into a game itself. Set a goal: "I will finish 3 games from my backlog before I even consider buying a new one." This gamifies the process and makes finishing a game feel like unlocking the ability to buy another.
5. The 48-Hour Rule
If you're absolutely convinced you need a new game, enforce a mandatory 48-hour waiting period. If you're still just as excited about it two days later, and it doesn't violate your other rules, then you can consider it. Often, the initial hype fades.
6. Revisit an Old Favorite
Sometimes the urge to buy comes from a desire for a specific *type* of experience. Craving a grand RPG? Instead of buying the latest one, why not start a New Game+ on The Witcher 3? Remind yourself of the incredible value you already have.
7. Organize Your Library
A messy, unorganized library feels like a burden. Take an hour to organize your digital libraries. A clean library feels more like a curated collection and less like a pile of shame.
8. Watch a "Let's Play" Instead
Are you truly interested in playing the game, or just curious about its story or a specific level? Sometimes, watching a streamer play through it can satisfy that curiosity just as well, saving you time and money.
9. Calculate the "Cost Per Hour"
Look at a game you haven't played, like a $60 RPG that takes 80 hours to beat. Your cost is $0.75 per hour of amazing entertainment waiting for you. Now look at that new $30 indie game. The value is undeniable in the games you already own.
10. Plan Your Attack with a Tool
The biggest barrier to starting a backlog game is not knowing what to play or how long it will take. This is where a dedicated tool can make all the difference. By using the gameyap Backlog Burner, you can instantly see your total playtime commitment and generate a clear plan. Seeing that you can knock out three games in the next 20 hours is far more motivating than staring at a giant, undefined list.