Worth the Load

Responsible play

Play that leaves room for everything else

Good games are easy to put down. These habits help keep free-to-play games enjoyable, affordable and in proportion.

Keep it optional

A game should be something you choose to do, not something you feel you owe. If a timer, a streak or a limited-time event makes you feel you must log in, that is a good moment to step back. Stop when a session no longer feels relaxing, even if a reward is almost ready.

Decide your limits before you start

  • Set a time budget for each session, and use a timer if it helps.
  • If you plan to spend, choose a monthly amount in advance and stick to it.
  • Use prepaid cards or platform spending limits rather than a saved bank card.
  • Never borrow money, or use money meant for bills, to buy in-game items.
  • Take regular breaks to move, drink water and rest your eyes.

Watch for warning signs

Playing for longer than you meant to, hiding how much time or money goes into a game, losing sleep, missing work or school, or feeling irritable when you cannot play can all be signs that gaming has stopped being fun. Noticing them early makes them much easier to change.

For parents and carers

Check a game’s age rating before a child plays, and use the parental controls built into consoles, phones and browsers to manage screen time and spending. Talking openly about games — what they enjoy, who they play with and what they spend — usually helps more than a blanket ban.

Where to find support

These organisations are independent of Worth the Load. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.

  • NHS National Centre for Gaming Disorders ↗

    Specialist NHS treatment for people aged 13 and over in England whose gaming has become harmful.

  • Ask About Games ↗

    Practical advice for families on age ratings, parental controls and in-game spending.

  • PEGI ↗

    The age-rating system used for video games in the UK and across Europe.

  • YoungMinds ↗

    Mental-health guidance and support for young people and their parents.

  • Mind ↗

    Information and support for anyone experiencing a mental-health problem.

  • Samaritans ↗

    Free, confidential support, 24 hours a day. Call 116 123.