Replayed the same comfort game for the tenth time?
Why games?
Games offer clear rules, instant rewards and worlds you can control. That suits both sides of AuDHD: structure for the autistic side, novelty and challenge for the ADHD side.
Gaming isn’t a waste of time. It can help you regulate.
Games suit AuDHD brains for good reasons. They have clear rules and goals, which appeals to the autistic side. They give constant feedback, novelty and challenge, which keeps the ADHD side engaged. A familiar game can be calming after a hard day, and online games offer a way to be social without the strain of being in the same room. For many people gaming is a real source of rest, skill and friendship.
What games give
Here is how the two compare:
| Autistic side | ADHD side |
|---|---|
| Clear rules | Instant rewards |
| Predictable worlds | Constant novelty |
| Deep systems to master | Challenge and progress |
| Low-pressure socialising | Hyperfocus flow |
A world that makes sense.
What it can look like
A few everyday examples:
- Replaying the same comfort game for years
- Knowing every detail of a game’s lore
- Making friends through online co-op
- “One more level” at 2am
- Unwinding with a cosy game after a hard day
The upsides
- Regulation: A calm, familiar escape.
- Connection: Friendships on your terms.
- Skills: Problem-solving and strategy.
- Confidence: Mastery feels good.
- Joy: Fun counts for its own sake.
Keep the balance
- Set a stop time: An alarm before bedtime.
- Stop at a save point: Plan your exit.
- Body alarms: Eat, drink and stretch.
- Notice avoidance: Is it rest, or escape?
- Watch spending: Turn off in-game purchases.
Where to start
Enjoy it without guilt, and keep an eye on the balance. Set an alarm to stop, and aim to finish at a natural break. Remember to eat, drink and move. If you notice you are mostly playing to avoid something, it is worth asking what you are avoiding. Turn off in-game purchases if spending worries you.
The bottom line
Game on, your way.
This post is for awareness, not diagnosis. If gaming starts to affect your daily life or finances, talk to your GP.
Want the swipeable version? This post is also a carousel on Instagram: follow @johnhasaudhd for more on life with AuDHD.