It's been a year again where you've probably added tons of new games to your backlog. At some point, it'll feel like a repetitive cycle of buying games, playing them for a while, and then slowly shelving them off - never to be played again.
It's alright, and it's normal to feel overwhelmed by the massive number of games in your library, considering how many games are released yearly.
If you ever felt that you were just hoarding games just to look at, fret not. There are multiple ways to face the gigantic list of games waiting for you in your video game library.
Like any task, clearing your game backlog can be done in different steps and phases. Here's how to do so as we approach 2025.
Make a Game Backlog Inventory
The very first thing to do is to make a list. Yes, you already have a list of games in your library, but make a list of the games you want to play and finish. Start by identifying games you are willing to spend time on and list them based on your interest.
Don't worry if you have several games outside of this list. The important thing is to identify which games you are happy playing. Use different categories, such as genres, to help you plan to finish them.
Start Small and Slowly Build Momentum
Start with shorter games or games that aren't overly difficult. If you have a platformer that can be finished in less than 35 hours and an open-world game that will need hundreds of hours to complete, go with the shorter one first.
This will allow you to finish a game without it overwhelming you, giving you your first win on this list. Start slow, and eventually, as you finish more and more short ones, work your way up to longer games. Completing shorter games will give you a sense of accomplishment, reigniting your motivation to pick up another video game on your list.
Set Clear Goals For Each Game
If you want to clear your game backlog, set specific goals to help you finish your games. Decide whether you want to 100% complete a game or just finish the main story.
Games already have challenges within them, so make sure that you set your own in regards to clearing the game. Once you've achieved these goals per game, you can clear your list easier.
Dedicate Gaming Sessions
Be sure to schedule your gaming sessions. Regardless of how long you play, as long as you stick to them, you'll slowly chip away at your game backlog.
At least 30 minutes of gaming sessions daily will help you finish a game in no time. Playing slowly and steadily will help you achieve this. Just remember to be consistent in your sessions.
One In, One Out Rule
Buying games is easy, but finishing them is a whole other story. When buying games, be sure that you finish one before adding another to your library. This will make your list smaller and more manageable.
This also applies to anything you do that you consider to be overwhelming. When doing small tasks at work or home, finish the pending ones before adding another. It'll help you avoid being overwhelmed with tasks while allowing you to finish more.
Avoid Perfectionism in Playing Games (It’s Okay to Let Go)
It's okay to drop games you dislike from your backlog completely. It's also okay not to collect every item or finish every quest. After all, the beauty of gaming is that you experience fulfillment and happiness.
It's better to focus on enjoying games rather than feeling that dread of having to do everything in each one.
Reward Yourself
Playing video games can be rewarding, but rewarding yourself in other ways is as important as achieving your goals.
If you finish a game, treat yourself to another set of peripherals or grab one of your favorite snacks. These wins are worth celebrating.
New games will be released in 2025, and while they may be added to your backlog, you now at least know how to manage them.
Always remember to have fun, take it easy, and it's okay to let go. You'll finish your backlogs and will be more ready than ever to tackle 2025's new games.