How to Defeat your Backlog, the SuperDerek Way
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
- Over 8 years I've beaten (and reviewed) 100 RPGs while juggling real life commitments, a full-time job and a TH-cam channel. If you're feeling overwhelmed here are some strategies to help you regain control of your RPG-Playing destiny!
Do you have a ton of unfinished games sitting on your hard drive? Is your backlog preventing you from progressing in your JRPGs?
In this video, we're going to teach you how to defeat your backlog, the super Derek way. We'll talk about how to prioritise your games and how to break them down into manageable goals. After watching this video, you'll be able to overcome your backlog and be on your way to becoming a Super Derek!
![How to Deal with your Overwhelming Backlog - [SuperSamBams]](/img/n.gif)
My number 1 piece of advice: do NOT attempt to "complete" an RPG. Example: Tales of Zesteria has an average beat time of 63 hours. My save, which is still 1st play through at Part Three (of Four, not counting 'Post Game content'), is at just over _250 hours._ I don't know where the time went, and I got so sick of the game that I dropped it years ago & had to look online what the story is & how to play it when I popped it back in the other day.
If you want to "complete" a game you _really_ like then go for it. But only one at a time, and don't "complete" every game. Focus on just _beating_ the game, instead.
Yeah, completion should definitely be reserved for your absolute favorite games, and even then be careful! Great point!
I think trophies and achievements have contributed to the mentality that, in order to have experienced something, you have to have all of them, which usually entails doing absolutely everything there is to do in a game.
At least to me, that is a very unrealistic approach and maybe the wrong mindset to have when experiencing a game.
Enjoy it for what it is, however you want to do that for you to get what you want from it, and don't feel like you have to do everything it has to offer.
I was quite a bit happier playing games when I stopped caring about some arbitrary number or symbol telling me what I've achieved in a game and just started playing it for me.
@@SuperDerek that's my biggest down fall :) great advice in general in your video man
Oh yeah good point. I almost never even try the games “optional super hard” dungeon.
@Shika I certainly understand that feeling.
When they were first introduced with the PS3/Xbox 360, I thought the idea was a fun way to add something to a game I was already playing, but after awhile I started to wonder why I cared at all.
I was doing things in the game that normally I wouldn't, sometimes long, drawn out things I wasn't enjoying, for some arbitrary reward system that ultimately was taking away from my experience, not adding to it.
I realized relatively quickly that I wasn't enjoying chasing them, so I just stopped paying attention to it.
I only check the list now if I absolutely want a reason to keep playing a game I've run out of content for.
I think people need to realise that backlogs can be a source of joy, not dread. Even when you are tackling very big games like rpgs.
In 2018 or so I think, I realised I had, like...150 games on PS4, thanks to the PS+ subscription, and a couple of seasonal sales. That's nothing compared to my Steam library (litterally more than 500 games I think) and Epic started giving free games, and Humble Bundle, GOG etc. So I was drawning in games to play, and yet, I continued to buy games as they were released, and always felt like I wasn't in the mood for the games I had...
Which is absurd! At this point, I had games for EVERY SINGLE MOOD. Long repetitive open world, short low interactive adventure affairs, arcade, racing, sports, isometric rpgs, platformers...
In August of that year, I ended up deciding to spend like two hours putting at least the PS4 games (I'm mostly playing on console) in an ordered list. And "forced" myself to go through the first five or something before bying somehing else. And I kid you not, I didn't buy another game that year, and since then, I buy like five games top a year (most of the time short indie adventure games), and I'm in love with the backlog. The reason for that is, once I finished the big titles I really wanted to play, I started playing the things that were not my cup of tea. And I actually found some gems in there, that I would have never played if I continued my old habit.
So now, I have accepted that I lag behind. I didn't play most of the great games of 2019/2020/2021. But I'm super happy with the games that I discover every month.
Also, to add to the video, I think that having two games helps me. But one of the games must be a low mental cost thing. So basically, I have one repetitive or arcady without to much scenario game, and another one, more involved mechanically or narratively. Basically Spelunky/No Man's Sky and another title from the backlog. And, say I have two hours of playtime, if I don't feel like playing the big game, I'll spend 30min on my repetitive thing first.
I feel like I get really invested in a game and something comes up with work travel and then I get off a schedule of playing and then forget the plot. I don’t want to watch TH-cam videos to try and remember the plot because I justify to myself this could be time playing a new game so I just never pick the old one back up. It’s a frustrating cycle I wish I could break.
I'm currently half way through tales of arise, bersaria and versperia, final fantasy 7 remake, 12 and 15, trails of cold steel 4, death end request and drain star varnir and stated ys 9.
I've got a problem... lol
My backlog is almost done I need to finish zenogear final fantasy 4 and 8 and chrono trigger and with only a few hour in the early morning I can make a little progress
I think having a "backlog" of video games can be a real addiction issue
I needed this a couple years ago. Now I have a new problem called Genshin Impact.
Something that really messes me up is trying too 100% a game, I get so bogged down by all the side content I just give up on the whole thing
My backlog is my greatest enemy.. it’s ever growing and I just keep playing only rocket league 😂
Lol that's my exact story. I sit down and just end up playing rocket league or Overwatch
Saaaaame rocket league and now genshin
I'm here to say, 2 years later, me too. Rocket League is my friend and my enemy 😭
Generally, I'm pretty good at focusing on 2 games at a time; one RPG and one game from a totally different genre, like a platformer. This summer, my focus was completely lost, there were a lot of great releases and I started way to many games and now I feel overwhelmed. Derek, your video came out at a good time. It's reminded me to bring back that focus. Half-way through your video, I paused to get a notepad and pen and started my list.
Heck yeah! I hope you kick your backlog's butt! :D
I think we should stop of thinking of a backlog as a dept. it's just nice to have this selection and if you start a game and it's not hooking you enough or it's just not much fun to you, just stop playing it and don't feel bad about it! For most people the time is the limiting factor not the games so there is no need to play through all games you ever started.
This is the correct answer. The backlog is not a to-do list. I feel comfortable knowing I have a vast library of beautiful games and stories to dive into and take my time with. RPGs are deeply personal journeys and they should be played slowly and savored. Not rushed just to check it off a list.
The impetus for this video is hearing so many people say things like, "I wish I had enough time to play RPGs" or "I used to play RPGs and now I just can't keep up" or "How do you avoid burnout." The idea of defeating a backlog is really just a short way for me to imply helping people with these other problems, if they think it's a problem.
I certainly have a massive backlog of maybe 600 RPGs I own and haven't played yet. I may never get through them all, but I will be giving it my best shot! :)
I definitely go for shorter games so I can play more of them but yeah game backlogs aren't a real thing we don't talk about any other medium in the same vein .
Like how often in common parlance do you hear, I want to watch this new show but my back log is already massive. "I can't start mad men until I watch the godfather trilogy."
I like this answer, but to the contrary as well, for me personally I've picked up an RPG and played for around 10 or so hours and didn't feel that hook only to come back to it a few weeks or months later and get REALLY hooked! I think, in addition to your thought, one should keep in mind that maybe what isn't settling with one now may settle much better a little while from now.
Yeah I don't feel bad owning a ton of games. I buy only 2 full price games a year. Most games I own were $10, usually less during sale. I'll spend $60 during a sale for a bunch of genres I can bounce around during the year.
Scrolling through that list I'll be surprised seeing a game I've wanted to play only to realize I own it get excited install it & play
This actually has a lot of advice applicable to life and other hobbies or interests, not just video games!
Going to try to finally start AND finish threads of fate on ps1 this weekend. Wish me luck
Good luck pending 😁
Good luck and enjoy
I beat that game! I remember nothing!
@@justanimage5012 update.. started it, liked it, didn’t finish lol
My number one tip is to never play on a difficulty more than "normal."
@Saturn Man just because a game is hard doesn't mean its worth playing or beating. likewise, just because a game is easy doesn't mean its not worth playing. I personally always do the first playthrough on easy. if its good, Ill do a second playthrough on a harder difficulty. if its bad, ill move on to the next game at least knowing I wasted the minimal time and effort on it. case in point, bioshock infinite is a great game and Ill love to attempt it again on a harder difficulty. personally, I didn't like killzone shadow fall and I would never play that game again, especially on a harder difficulty.
Depends on everyone taste i guess.
I rather spend time challenging myself on a harder difficulty setting and getting the difficulty trophy/achievement in one go than being bored rushing trough the game on easy, disregarding any mechanics the game has to offer just for the story.
I’ve have struggled with backlog for years… and sometimes it makes me feel stupid for even saying it out loud. But this video really treats the issue with thoughtfulness and guidance. Think I’ll apply some of these techniques. Thanks.
I'm glad I could help. This video exists because I hear from a lot of people who struggle, or say they wish they could play more. You're not alone, it's not stupid. I hope that some of these can help!
Aside from varying the types of games I move on to, or the length, change of setting, etc., I also try to be really honest with myself in that there are games I think look interesting, but deep down I know I'd never actually get around to it if I picked them up.
Those games, I will pull up a let's play or longplay of and watch or listen to while I do other things.
Time is very finite, so this allows me to get to experience the story while I'm productive in other aspects of my life.
Such a good point honestly. I’ve recently culled a ton of games off my switch wishlist after going through each one and *really* asking myself, am I ever going to play this? It’s easy to get swept up in hype but take a step back and try to picture yourself ever playing XYZ and you realize…I probably won’t.
I was in my MS program when Skies of Arcadia released and, during an especially busy week, I had to postpone my progress for a couple weeks. Now in 2021 I'm always just about to get back to it. Someday...
That's a great game to stagger every other day with an Action RPG title like _Ys._ Skies of Arcadia is a great game, but man...it can get _long_ (I'm looking at you, Flutterflies discovery).
To me, the Switch has been a blessing because I can play is short bursts and suspend the system no matter where you are. Yes, you sacrifice "graphics and framerate" but I honestly stopped caring about that. Also, I put my pride away and stopped being a completionist and stopped playing in the hardest difficulty (unless it's truly not that hard) .
As a married man in his mid-30s with 2 small children, I realistically only have time to game at night when the kids are asleep. However, I do have two additional tips that I'd want to share: 1) Create a document that has a section for notes on all the current games in your backlog. I tend to write down my next objectives and any important storyline developments that had just happened in case I forget after a few weeks/months. 2) I generally opt to get the portable version of a game (especially if it's available for Switch/3DS/DS/etc) I notice that the convenience of portability is a huge factor whether or not I finish a game. Especially if it's a RPG.
Great tips!
I have time before and after work to play but I still waste time a lot on TH-cam. Sometimes I get through a chapter only to get overwhelmed having to do it all again on another chapter. Even if the story is fun, it's a chore. I gave up on many rpgs because of that.
@@celticlord88 dude I’m on the can right now is why I’m watching this video but I’ve been noticing how much of a time sink social media can be in general. I’ve realized that I watch TH-cam videos about video games more often than I play them anymore. Lol. Definitely something that needs to change for me
That takes time away from the few precious hours i have left when the kids sleep before myself has to go sleep. I hate portable versions. A grand rpg is not meant to be played on a tiny screen. The guy has no fucking clue. He has no kids yet, only a wife to "please" from time to time.
@@FrogSpl4sh I was just telling my older brother this that hopefully when your kids start getting a little older then maybe they wouldn’t mind watching you play some RPGs or something. Or at the very least maybe there are some coop games you guys can play together.
I often get paralyzed by the sheer amount of choice for what game to play. I joined and was pretty active in an online RPG club for about a year which helped a lot. Just cast a vote and wait for the results to know what to play. I beat an RPG every month for that year.
That's a great rate of play! I wonder if there'd be any interest in a RPG Book-club in the Discord.. Hmm...
@@SuperDerek yes, this sounds amazing
We're starting one in October, it's official. Get joined up if you haven't already! discord.me/superderek
Don't think of it as a backlog that you need to complete, that makes it a chore. Games are fun, when they stop being fun something is wrong. Play the game you want when you want. Time is expensive, games are not.
You have the best take on it yet. Play the games when the mood strikes, I’m just getting to The Witcher 3 now.
I had my own backlog strategy when I beat the first 5 Dragon Quest games this year. I marathoned the first 3 games at the beginning of the year since they are pretty short. Took a break and played some other game genres for a few months. Then played through Dragon Quest 4 & 5. I think your suggestions could really help me out with my backlog as well.
Which was your pick of the bunch? I love 5 but have a soft spot for 4 too
@@danielwolstenholme9649 Between the both of them I liked 4 the most. I preferred that 4 had a wider cast of characters and the fact that all of their individual stories intertwined into the main narrative. 5 is great too and has the most sad story in the series, but I didn’t connect with the characters quite as strongly as in 4.
My strategy that has worked. Some are similar to yours:
Definitely focus on a handful of games you want to finish and don’t make the list too big.
Try to diversify styles of games so you don’t get bored. But also, sometimes I’ve experienced a “momentum effect” where if you haven’t played one style in a while and you really get into it again, take advantage of it and string together another one of the same genre. Because once you “fall out” of favor with a certain style, it can be hard to rekindle.
If able, keep your phone and devices away from you while you game. Wanting to check a phone for news or texts can be distracting for text heavy games like RPGs.
If you’re fast reader and impatient, don’t be afraid to not wait for the voice acting to finish completing dialogue, and skip ahead of it on your controller. It adds up, and it can cut down RPG time by several hours if it’s a text heavy RPG.
Avoid platinuming games unless you absolutely need to. That more than anything can contribute to burnout.
I usually play with the sound off with rare exceptions like really good music like smt/persona or ambient sounds in animal crossing so the text is necessary for me and definitely is faster to read than listen to.
Personally, I struggle with playing one game at a time without flipping to some other shiny game. So what I do is I tend to devote myself to 2 games of different genres at once. One night play DQ 11, then ys 8 the next. Or another time it was P2 eternal punishment with Yakuza 0. This helps me not get bored, distracted, or even be as bothered by certain flaws of the game. *Cough Persona 2 grinding cough*
Yeah, I like the 2 genre approach. I generally play an RPG mixed with a platform game. When I adhere to that formula, I'm pretty successful at finishing games in better time.
I love this idea! Some people gotta alternate to maintain interest, and this sounds like a great way to keep it interesting without spreading yourself too thin! :)
I like that idea too! I tend to have a long story game going on as the same time as shorter 2d games. But please do yourself a favor and beat Ys 8 if you haven't already.
I do this quite often too, but for me it's 1 tactic rpg and 1 normal turn based rpg.. Or mixed it with warrior style game and action rpg.
I use this strategy as well. Atm I'm playing Tales of Berseria and Bravely default 2, with Ys 9 waiting in the wings for once I finish Berseria.
Check out Part 2: th-cam.com/video/ePNKpUJ6qTE/w-d-xo.html
Someone reminded me I forgot to link my Twitch channel so... here you go! www.twitch.tv/superderekrpgs/
Also join the Discord! discord.me/superderek
If you have an xbox or pc, I have a little tip, "game breaks, finish in 5 hours or less." On gamepass is the greatest thing.
So essentially when I finish a lengthy title I hop into gamepass and find a short title I would previously struggle to justify a purchase of and play a totally out of left field little experience.
If you are on gp
Genesis noir, katana zero, carto and ikenfell. Were all standout games.
My situation is not really comparable to yours, because I'm single and have no kids, but I must say that the pandemic gave me the time to conquer my backlog. I was suddenly jobless and what gave me joy in those depressing times were playing video games. The first game to just come out in the first lockdown was FFVII Remake and I played through that one in around 4 days. Afterwards I decided to finish backlog games from different genres and lengths. For example: DQXI S, The Bioshock Trilogy (Binged through all of them with DLC because I truly enjoyed them), Legend of Legaia, Tales of Hearts R, Bayonetta 1 & 2 (also binged), The Atelier Dusk Trilogy (binged). I love a good story and continuation of a story. Currently playing some Switch Indies like Ara Fell. I just love gaming man.... 🤣 One of the plus sides of this pandemic is the opportunity to finish the backlog.
Some day I'll retire and have the time to make real progress! Fingers crossed, anyway! :D
Ara Fell is absolutely wonderful. No spoiler here, my favorite moment is when Lita and Adrian start fighting and she's ready to murder him with an arrow, it's damn hilarious and cute.
@@vagabundorkchaosmagick-use2898 haha yeah just came across this moment: "Come at me Bro!!!". 🤣🤣🤣
I was part of a RPG maker project in the 0's (yes I'm old) and Ara Fell really reminds me of our project back then. The battle animations, the Humor, the little details in the environment and the fauna. Lovely game even with all the RTP assets!
@@patricksabel3958 The team is working on their second game, Rise of the Third Power; there's already a demo, I think.
@@vagabundorkchaosmagick-use2898 that sounds amazing!! Thanks for the tip!!
For myself, I spread out my rpgs, and Play games from other genres in-between like platformers, or sandboxes , or even a shooter every now and then.
Another thing I do is have 1 game per console (I.e I currently have neo:twewy on switch that I go through and on PC it's final fantasy VII which I haven't beaten yet hopefully this attempt will be when I finally best it)
I have the same problem off just giving up so close to the end. Just like I’m burned out on the game and I say I’ll just finish it in a little bit of time but completely quit. Then I just watch people on TH-cam play through games because it’s easy and faster then grinding.
If you're playing through your backlog on PC - native games or emulation - do not hesitate to CHEAT! When you're already seen what the game has to offer and you have a wall to grind ahead of you, cheat. Note down that point in the game as being unnecessarily grindy for critique, then launch your cheat program and breeze through the grind wall. Don't let a video game waste your time.
Highly agree, was gonna suggest this. Switch/vita/3ds all hackable
I don't like cheating, but I also don't like grinding. So you can definitely do that to avoid wasting your time, esp if a game really needs you to grind. Idm grinding for a bit while I watch a youtube video or listen to something for 20-30 mins but if it's more than that hell no
@@Walamonga1313 grinding can be relaxing some times, but if I only get like an hour or two max to play every other or third day, then cheat we go.
I play mainly through emulation in order to have savestates.
I think it depends. I often do stuff like this, but also grinding in Monster Hunter World is probably some of the most fun I've had in gaming. Just hanging out with friends slaying some beasts.
It's not wasted time if it's fun, even if you aren't progressing very fast. Don't rush yourself, because that's how you kill your enjoyment. Only use cheats if grinding isn't fun or rewarding
I can definitely relate to a lot of these points, particularly playing only one game at once and settings goals. The only issue with that for me is that I refuse to play other games until the goal has been met xD.
With the current climate of switch online, Xbox live etc all games as a monthly subscription i see my physical backlog as a hedge against the bleak digital future that i hope we avoid but just in case its snes, n64, ps1 2 3 4 saturn dreamcast wiiu switch, ps5 physical backlog ftw. I have a steam backlog too but at least steam prices are reasonable
i really like the tip play shorter games between i do that usually. i do play other genres than rpg between to keep the fresh and indie games they are short and nothing like the heavy hitters in triple A, and it feels great to finish a game that is shorter and have that boost to jump in some big rpgs after that.
My thoughts exactly!
That's how I do it. finish one rpg and then play something like Resident evil or a random shooter as kinda like a palette cleanser it helped a lot more than I thought it would.
Yeah man. I played a lot of shooting games (fps and tps) this year, get burned out. Diversification is really needed. Now playing Rogue Galaxy. After that I'll play shooter again because they are short.
There are so many backlog tackling videos. But none rpg focused where games are typically much longer to beat. Thanks for the great video!
Interesting! I've actually never watched anybody else's video on the subject, but I'm glad I could help put my unique spin on the subject!
@@SuperDerek What I found works for me is to alternate between what types of RPGs I play. And at the same time have a game of a completely different genre in progress at the same time. Otherwise like you mentioned in the video, I start to get burnt out toward the end. So it keeps both games feeling fresh and exciting up until I finish them.
The problem is... I buy too many games.. there I said it lol
The main problem with me is that I have a very physical and mental job. And I work 6 days a week. Even when I want to play and set time aside my hands and legs hurt soo much to actually hold a controller.
Wow, that's *extremely* tough. Honestly the only suggestions I could have for that is to try living vicariously through streams of the games you're interested in. I hope that your job situation improves someday soon, bud!
After beating a backlog, reward yourself and buy another backlog... 😅
That's the most important thing for me. I play one game at a time and it sticks in my memory forever rather than playing a bunch of games at once just to get through the backlog. Example I recently played Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater and finished it then played Yakuza 0 and finished it. Get a lot more invested into characters & story when focusing on 1 game.
I would love to hear you talking about tips for playing different kind of rpgs, for example managing the inventory, leveling up characters, using guides o stuff like that which surrounds the rpg way of playing. Blessings bro!
I'll consider it! Thanks for the suggestion!
Once I got to the point in my life when I had a bit more money (and a lot less time), I noticed that I was playing the first few hours of different games instead of finishing anything. So I created a blog and started writing about games for fun. Once I got a few hours into a game, I wanted to write something about it. That was enough to compel me to move forward. The side effect was that I got better as a writer. I still write at least something about most of the games that I finish.
I love posting reviews about games I enjoy, or games that I really disliked. I've always liked writing so reviewing games just came naturally. Ahh if only professional game reviewers cared about games and not politics, I would try to get into it and get paid
I did this same thing. I started a group on Facebook and added a few friends where I could talk about games I've completed from my backlog. Even though most of them don't care or read it, it still helps me feel committed to complete new experiences to talk about. I'm beholden to writing about these games so try to find something new and interesting to talk about. It really helps me.
I try to alternate between a backlog game/retro game and a new game. For example, i had Legend of Legaia on my backlog and Tales of Arise coming out as a new game. So i looked at Legend of Legaia's game length and started with enough time to finish it before Arise came out. Now im playing through Arise and finished Legaia, with like 10 more hours spent than estimated, about a week ago.
One thing i do as well: I never play 2 action RPGs back to back. 2 Turn-based are fine but my hands cramp too much and i get fatigued way too much after playing 2 60hours action RPGs.
Alternating game styles or even complete genres is always great. Variety helps in not getting bored and like you say, sometimes your hands just get cramped. I still play action games and shooters, but it's always nice to have a turn based one to "relax" after so much button mashin, precise inputs/aiming and coordination.
Really inspirational video here, I juste recently decided to actually do something about my video game "slump" and now I'm back in the game boys ! (literally)
Congrats! Pace yourself man, and if the list you put together ever doesn't look all that appetizing feel free to scrap it and start the list over. The plan works for you, not the other way around! :)
Mixing it up is what allows me to tear through my backlog like tissue paper. Used to be I'd get really into a game, want to immediately jump into the sequel, get burnt out halfway through, and either have to take several months break or just never come back to and re-add it to my backlog, which is a massive waste of time in terms of backlog progress, especially because I'm an obsessive completionist. Learning the restraint neccesary to play through one RPG from a different series (or a few shorter games) in between made the difference between my backlog bloating and me actually slowly shrinking it down over time.
The last 8 years or so I've been playing through my backlog since I noticed seeing a new game and playing through it is more fun to me than replaying a game. When I replay a game I usually lose interest after 15 minutes or so (Longer if it's an RPG).
I play so many different genres so I always try to alternate them a little bit, but RPGs is the most frequent genre since it's my favorite.
I do also alternate length and use howlongtobeat to do so.
I have all the games I own listed in a spreadsheet, sorted by system (console/handheld device) and change the color from red to green when I beat a game, to sort of check it off the list.
If there is a series I want to get through I try to do at least 1 game every year, and to give an example I played through Tales of Legendia in February since I knew we were probably getting Tales of Arise during the 2nd half of this year. Currently of the English releases I just have Tales of the Abyss left.
All of the steps listed above make it so I can play games and have a lot of fun with every single one, with no chance of burnout, which leads to good progress on my ever-growing backlog.
I'll most likely never beat every game in my backlog which is completely fine and expected, but I have a lot of fun working my way through it.
My strategy. Don't switch games constantly. When you play a game commit to it until you beat it. (Unless you're really sure it's something not worth finishing)
6:51 YES!
Honestly, as much as I would like to tackle a new game that I really want to try out, I am often way too tired from all my daily responsibilities. So I always end up just running around in a world I have already explored. Its like a comfort food to me but it also sucks becuase my backlog is enormous now. I hate being sick and unwell.
Thanks for the pep talk. We backloggers needed that. I'm guilty of adding games to the list that I want to get back around to, only to make the list grow impossibly long. As you get older, treat time as a resource and pick your battles. And my suggestions are to tier your backlogged games. Rank things you REALLY want to play higher than more novelty stuff, so if you don't get to those, no biggie. I agree that playing one game at a time is a good strategy, and that switching genres completely for a game or two, something far shorter, to keeps RPGs feeling new and different.
Ok this is how I do it… I call it “the revolver” method and it’s similar to what you have here. I write down a list of every game I own and truly want to play. Then I have 6 games in “the revolver” that I don’t own that are mostly new releases I want to play. If a new game releases that I want I can take out one of the “bullets” (games) in the revolver and substitute the game in but in either list you can substitute a game but you can not get rid of it. How you get rid of games is by beating them. Once the games I own list gets bellow 6 I can take a game out of the revolver by purchasing it and adding it to the list.
How I work through games is very similar to this videos strategy. I set aside 4 to 5 hours during the work week then 5 to 15 on the weekends (depending on what’s going on) to playing video games. I discovered I experience burnout typically 5 to 15 hours into a game so before I reach burnout I start thinking of which game from my “to play” list I want and I know I will come back to that game since it is on my “to play” list. Then games start chaining. For example my last chain was Super Mario Bros U deluxe (12 hours to beat) > New Pokémon Snap (8 hours to beat) > going back for the third act of Skyward Sword HD (10 hours to beat) > beating two lords in Tales of Arise (currently playing at 10 hours probably 5 more to achieve)
Me looking at the mirror: "repeat after me, today we're playing Disgaea."
Me in the mirror: "today we're playing counter-strike all day."
-_-
I need this video for my backlog. I'll watch it later.......*clicks watch later*
I haven’t had a backlog in 5 years and I’ve finished close to 500 games. Just buy a game one at a time and only buy a new game when you’ve finished the one you’re playing. Easy.
I feel like for every rpg i finish I buy 3 more 😅
I would also just like to add that constantly replaying/rewatching/rereading the same things and being unable to engage with anything new is a giant red flag for emotional exhaustion, one of the major symptoms of not just burnout, but also depression, anxiety, struggling with ADHD or masking autism, etc. If you really are struggling to start something new despite trying to follow the advice here, perhaps consider seeing a doctor.
That could also be true, and I hadn't considered this possibility. But yeah if replaying or being unable to complete a game is tied to feelings of anxiety, this could be the right answer. Thanks for mentioning this!
It's super common among our generation. I feel it's a result of being bombarded with nearly unlimited choices since we were kids - you find one or two "comfort food" shows, movies, or games, and stick with them rather than stick your neck out there and take a risk. I don't know of anyone around my age or younger who doesn't do this.
@@SuperDerek Glad to be helpful:) It could be nothing - comfort games are a thing too! But just something to be aware of.
@@Mamba219 It can just be nothing - like you say, games that act as comfort food are fine, too. But it's something to be aware of, especially if it's actively prohibiting you from trying new games that you want to play but can't.
8:00 see with me its the opposite. When i know Im getting closer I start to sprint toward the finish. I begin playing for nearly half a day when im off from work (more if my place is already cleaned)
But at the start of a new game i struggle to even go for 2 hours straight. I really cant explain why tho
Breath of Fire III is STILL on my to finish list, I get oh so close to the end, only to never finish it. Vagrant Story would be another. Final Fantasy II and III as well. Gonna try and apply this to these titles.
Whenever I finally knock out a game from my backlog, i end up adding like 2 or three more in its place.
Rule number one to beating your backlog. Stop watching YT and play the damn games!
Can't agree more with not marathoning series. I love mass effect but stopped playing the trilogy right before finishing 2 cause i was attempting to marathon the games.
i thought it was just me who quits anm rpg an hour before completing. thank god im not the only one. and goals ye?!
If you're okay with emulation (back up your own games) you can always make the game run faster, I usually do that for the battles.
100 is a freaking lot, I'm not nearly as efficient as you, but i have beated 12 JRPs in the las 3 years, soa bout 4 per year, i think that's fine XD
I do play other games, so I finish around 10 games per year in general sort of
Great video, i always have a problem starting a new game due to having way to many options.
Don't get me wrong, it's kind of overwhelming to look at my backlog (I try not to) but even so, I think of gaming as a pleasure, not a chore. I have Tales of Arise waiting but I just finished Langrisser I+II a few days ago so I don't feel like playing another long JRPG right now. After watching some Horizon 2 trailers I started playing Zero Dawn again and I'm having a blast rediscovering how amazing this game was the first time through. That's also what it's about for me. Backlog is a real thing of course but I prefer to live the present moment and not think too much about what games I might have "missed". There's just too much out there worth playing for a single person. ;)
I'm not gaming much at the moment, I've been getting into reading more. But I feel this video still applies for that as well, so thanks!
Do you mind if I ask what you've been reading? I'm feeling overwhelmed with the amount of gaming I've been doing lately and could do with a break.
@@that_newton_guy7069 Sure, I've been re-reading Dune, a personal favourite of mine. I've also been reading One Piece for the first time which is a really fantastic adventure story. Also I picked up War of the Worlds which is an older book but a short read. If I'm going off gaming I usually start with a smaller book to sort of jumpstart me, then go onto a longer book.
@@ChilledKiwi Thanks for responding. I read Dune about two months ago and was amazed at how good it was - has me looking forward to the upcoming movie.
I usually gravitate towards classic literature, but I'm game for more sci-fi works and even manga. Thanks again.
@@that_newton_guy7069 No problem, hope you enjoy whatever you go to read :)
I'm hoping your last bit of advice is: if you don't enjoy the game, stop playing it and cross it off your list.
Such a good, helpful video. You brought up some really great points that I didn't realize I was doing, like getting in my own way by stopping short at the end of a game or being distracted by starting 8 different RPGs at once.
My favorite piece of advice you gave was the idea of making a schedule to budget my time. Personally, when I have too much free time staring me down, it gets overwhelming and it's easy to lose focus. But your suggestion to be more intentional and set a focus on how to arrange the time in a specific direction was super helpful. So many of your tips can help in other areas of life too.
Thanks for this video. I love your content man. I appreciate it so much more now, knowing that you have so many other things going on in your life too! Keep fighting that good fight bro! Happy gaming!
What's with the weird cuts of people watching you in their computer monitors? And what the heck are these people cheering at? 5:54 there's nothing happening on screen.
Input from someone who doesn't play RPG's only, albeit a good chunk of my backlog are RPG's:
1.) Your list is essentially my Frontlog. 16 Games I intend to beat in a year.
Mind you, these 16 games are split ½ into long games (everything over 30h) and short games (under 30h). When I beat a long game, I pick a short one. Beating a short one, a long one is chosen.
2.) Akin to "mix sub genres" is "mix genres". However I still try to mix the RPG's. Also, if you have multiple, switch up on which platform you play.
3.) Due to the Switch, so many Indies are part of the Backlog. My next 3 games, after beating Persona 5 Royal, are Indies.
4.) I try to only buy new games after beating a game. My self control failed that one. I literally bought a game yesterday despite not having beaten a game in months. (P5R is a long game.) But I was so hyped for Cat Quest 3!
5.) It is okay to give up on games. Some games aren't fun, there is no point in forcing yourself though slop that is no fun. This hobby is meant to be fun.
6.) Do not play multiple games parallel to each other!
At least not many games or games that are similar.
I like to play my games the way I like to read books, one at a time. I try not to even think about the game I’m going to play next, because I will find myself rushing through the current game to get to the next one, instead of fully enjoying the game I am presently playing. I always wait till the wife and kids are in bed for the night to play. This cuts back on distractions and allows me to spend time with them during the day.
Great video! The big piece of advice I'd recommend is adopt a "one in and one out" system. I made it a rule years ago that if I wanted to buy a new game I had to finish at least one game from my backlog first. Thanks to that rule I've beaten 23 games so far this year. It's really helped me with overspending on games too since I usually don't buy a game until a few weeks after it's release, which causes my hype to reduce down so I end up buying fewer games overall.
Super smart decision! Maybe I should do this too...
me who was playing xenogears for an entire year and haven't finished it yet
This was a great video, Derek. I really enjoy discussions on the dynamics of collecting, playing, displaying, etc. All that side stuff that goes along with being a gamer. Nice work.
Thanks Will! I wasn't sure how interested people might be in this kind of video, I'm glad to see that it's resonating with a lot of people out there! :D
I find the best way is to just not buy a new game until I've played two or three older ones. Like, I really want this new game that's coming out in three months, but I'm not going to get it until I've finished these two. And you're right about mixing up the game type/style/genre - playing a lot of the same sort of game in a row gets hard.
Also, I love the idea of scheduling, but my ADHD ass can't 🤣 I'm either playing obsessively, or can't pick anything up 😅
I agree but tales of arise
@@tillow9511 🤣🤣
Everyone's got a different situation, but I do think having time set aside for gaming, even if you choose not to game at that time can be helpful. Keeping that time open, creating more opportunities for gaming is just going to enable the choice whether you do it or not. Best of luck Yaku! :D
I always try to hit the gym first thing in the morning, then play video games for an hour or two before bed. If I skip the gym in the morning, then I go after work and don’t have time for games. That way I’m always prioritizing my health and usually still do several hours of gaming a week and I can squeeze in some more on the weekends.
That's incredibly smart! Everyone's time is finite, but maintaining health can help extend the time limit! Have you looked into Ring Fit Adventure? Kill two birds with one stone! :D
You have a wonderful radio voice! Good advice too :)
I'm a combo of overwhelmed and not determined to finish an rpg.
That Mugen souls sticks out on the shelf like a sore thumb lol. I can see it from downtown! Great video! I have burnout but more from depression and mental states, as opposed to getting bored. Sometimes I need a break from my break time. Then I go detecting more or read more. By alternating my hobbies I try to keep things fresh
We actually had a whole podcast discussing this very topic! I definitely value your opinion, so this was such a nice upload to see! I will absolutely be taking notes on this one!
and then there is the people like me who have a OCD complex and feel like they want to play every single rpg out there and in a specific order of franchise. Take it from me, DO NOT DO THIS. lol. The key is to prioritize your self, pick the games you really want to play mostly. Trust me if you go into it with the mindset thinking you can play 1000+ games on your backlog in your life time, its not going to happen. You will be suprised how much you can get through if you play stuff you want to and also it won't be as dull and boring or feel like a drain which will allow you to play the games you like and enjoy.
Yeah, I *feel* this in my being. Part of me still demands playing in chronological order, and for a lot of things I do. But this really does keep me from playing the newest stuff more often than I would like.
I've definitely found that making an actual list of my backlog, so I can have a visual representation of what I have and have not finished, really really helped. I started keeping track of things back in 2015, and in the intervening years I've finished somewhere in the neighborhood of 60 RPGs (action/turn-based/strategy/etc) plus a bunch of other side stuff like platformers. Also a few years back I took your advise and started limiting the number of games I was playing at once. If something new came out, I would just sit on it until I was done what I had already started. And since the start of the pandemic I've started doing something a little odd. I've started planning out my months, giving them themes or overall goals to have something to look forward to during the lockdowns and to mark the passage of time. So there have been whole months dedicated to certain series, or certain genres, or even just nostalgia. I've also tried to limit the amount of time I sink into games by not overplaying them/trying to 100% them on the first playthrough. Now the goal is to just finish the game, and then I can come back in the future and replay/100% it if I really enjoyed the game the first time around (I have a growing list for games like this now too). I also found that sites like HowLongToBeat have been helpful, because sometimes I'm not in the mood for a super long overly involved RPG, and being able to pick a shorter game when I want to seems to help avoid burnout. Oh, another thing I just thought of is keeping notes. Sometimes the progression in RPGs (particularly older ones) can be a bit obfuscated or poorly designed, so having notes of important locations/NPC dialogue/etc can prevent you getting stuck and frustrated. And also don't be afraid to use GameFAQs. If a game is obtuse don't waste a tonne of time smashing your head against a wall trying to figure things out. Sometimes it's just bad design and you gotta look it up. I feel like there is so much more to be said on this topic because I keep thinking of more things and editing them in, but I guess I'll stop myself here.
That sounds incredibly interesting! Themes sound like a fun way to do things!
Just Play the Game.
I'm guessing you're still either in your teens or college years. Things aren't that simple afterwards.
Here’s the secret, don’t have kids.
what do you do when your stuck on a game and its free roaming so the walkthroughs on youtube take hours to find where you are?
Which game is it? If the walk-throghs or guides aren't helpful, it might not be a bad idea to consult a fan forum for the game and get answers from people familiar with the game. :)
I’ve been over 75% of the way for Persona 3 for like 10+ years 😅
Man, as someone who was once a completionist, Persona 3 broke me so many times. It wasn't until I decided to play it more casually, (using only a spoiler-free good-ending guide) that I could finally relax and really appreciate the journey... So to speak.
My strategy: I typically have an RPG and some other long-term time-investment game playing at the same time. Currently, I'm playing through Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth, but I always make time to play some Monster Hunter.
Another thing I do is play games while I exercise. I walk around 6 miles per day, so I get some really good handheld time in. The problem with that is, I haven't been able to make as much time to sit down with a console game. It's been months since I've played one.
On the bright side, if you wait long enough those console games become handhelds via emulator ;)
Derek: Don't replay games
Me: I just finished playing FF1 PR 3 times, FF3 PR and FF4 PR (this probably bring my completion number for FF4 in the 30s-40s....). I swear I'll work on my backlog someday!
haha, since it seems you're pretty deep in the replay cycle, how about trying to alternate your replay schedule with one new game and one replay? There are great experiences out there, new games out there I bet you can't wait to replay! ;)
FF1 is such a phenomenal game!
@@LedZeppo32 i find a good "replay" method of ff1 now is thru randomizers, your still replaying the game but it feels fresh and new and diffrent everytime
Don't replay games
Me: Still plays Monster Hunter World (2500+ hours) and Dark Souls 3 (1500+ hours)
I've a lot of unfinished and even unopened games, yet I still gravitate to ol reliables a lot of the time. It's kind of annoying in a way, that whenever I've the time and drive to game I may just go and replay ones I've played so much before. But at the same time, they're fun so whatever lol. It just means my backlog will last longer.
Buy a Switch... that's tip #1
I had to promise myself a couple years ago that I would finish fewer games each year. Trying to keep up with the release schedule usually meant beating each game in 1-2 weeks, so I wouldn’t really take the time to enjoy it to its fullest potential. This led to me rolling credits on over 30 games a year and feeling more pressure than enjoyment. I’ve been taking my time and enjoying longer games, paying no attention to the release calendar. I get to it when I get to it. I’ve been enjoying my hobby so much more now.
Changing gaming generations helps as well. Here are the games I have finished in this order with the last one being my current game. Not all are JRPGs but you can find a few easy platformers that can help break things up for you as well.
Xenosaga, Beyond Oasis, Eternal Sonata, Xenosaga 2, Sonic Generations, Sonic 2, Xenosaga 3.
I'm noticing RPG's that start off "peacefully" before they get to the story are the most difficult to get started. Having to talk to villagers and complete stupid irrelevant tasks for the first 2 hours of the game while having no idea what conflict I'm about to face just kills me with boredom and I simply don't have the patience for it as much as I used to.
I don't mind slow starts but I absolutely hate chorequests (aka minigames and fetch quests and sidequests that are just boring). Sadly, many RPGs use these as fluff to make the games longer. It's even worse when they're at the middle of the game so they may kill the pacing. If they're optional they're not much of a bother but sometimes devs are cruel and make them mandatory story quests.
@@Walamonga1313 I completely agree but I'm going to add I even hate when they're optional because I hate leaving an area knowing there are things left undone. When side quests and mini games are random tasks I have issues getting into the groove of completing them because I can't be bothered going out of my way to learn the task, find and complete them. What I am ok with is one over arching side quest or mini game. For example like the card games in final fantasy 8 and 9 or side quests that let you get special over powered weapon or armor.
Another tip for backlogs. don't buy a new game unless you plan on immediately playing it. Otherwise it easily falls to the wayside imo
This, so much.
But those steam sales are so tempting 😅
@@zilvarro5766 I say that and then Atelier Ryza goes on sale while im trying to get through main story in FFXIV xD
I didn't expect him to get so philosophical about time, now I'm rethinking my entire schedule.
this is yet another push for me to improve my mental health. Ive noticed remnents of my teenage years that stick around despite my life improving a lot since then haha. thanks derek.
EDIT: im enjoying these new videos a lot
I'm really glad to hear it! They've been a lot of fun to put together! :)
OUTSTANDING FUCKING VIDEO!!!!! THIS ONE AAAAND PART 2!!!! your gave me sooooo many ideas!!! thank you !!!!!
I have finished about 400 games to date...
Spreadsheet my to play list.
Each game gets a 3 hour trial period, if I don't like it, goes back on the shelf, if I am liking it, gets added to black list in my spreadsheet, which means I must finish it.
Play 2 games at a time, 1 console, 1 handheld.
Do not platinum anything, side quest if you enjoying the game enough to do it naturally.
Wait until you finish a game to watch all your favorite TH-cam reacts to the game, avoids spoilers and saves a reward for the end.
To play list is capped and color coded, 5 on red list max, maybe 20 in yellow, no limit in green. Try to play the games in red first, but this list is fluid.
Game stays in the console until it's finished...no switching out an incomplete game unless it's for guests and multiplayer.
Some of my tips and tricks, they have served me great so far!
I really like this methodology. I'd love to see your list layout if you wouldn't mind uploading it somewhere. :)
@@garboy13 - The Template is quite simple. Game Title, System, and Color code are really the only needed fields to keep it organized. But since you asked I will explain the extended Color options!
Black = In Progress Game (Currently Dragon Quest VIII for me)
Red = Must play bucket list game (Castlevania Bloodlines on mine)
Yellow = Game that you should like by all accounts, you have it and are just itching to play!
Green = Someone recommended to you so you politely added it to your list even though you have limited interest
Grey = Game that I gave up trying to beat after it entered the Blacklist...Proud to say i only have one game here...Defiantly an optional sublist for those who want to punish themselves -_-
White = Completed games! Very satisfying to add to the white list after finishing a game. Most recently I finished Pokémon shield, the list is now at 403!
@@danieldietz9065 Thank you for the explanation! I'm a very visual person. Would you mind posting a screenshot or a copy of your document somewhere?
Have a great... HAVE A GREAT WHAT DEREK ?!?!
rip my editing skills T_T
and also thanks for watching to the end!
This video is for me
Yes, Making the list is the most important step here, as it get's it out of your head (which removes a lot of the stress and depression), and when you have game time, you are not in doubt about which game to play...
This video really blew up.. Good job 🙂
Yeah, real struggle with completing the games. I am right in front of the final boss, and I just drop the game and forget about it. Its like "you are technicaly still in a journey if you never completed it" or something among those lines. I guess its the same reason why I rarely read anything that are finished too...Ongoing all the way. And I stop about 10-20 chapters before that said ongoing and switch to another read.
a good schedule i'm doing right now with Eyiuden Chronicles is: one dungeon a day. finished a dungeon? i save my game and return the next day, doing the dialogues and story until the next dungeon comes and i finish it. rinse and repeat. i've done this before with lunar 1 and it was a success!
I have to admit, I sort of stopped watching TH-cam videos from about 2018 to late 2020 so I've missed a lot of Super Derek vids. You and the channel are looking good. I'm glad you found your audience, Derek! Very interesting video. People may scoff but the older you get, the harder it is to FIND time to do things like play games. That's why you need to MAKE (i.e. schedule) the time to play games. That being said, I will never get close to finishing the games I want to, even if I never bought another game for the rest of my life. Too many to play, not enough life.