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Does time played define your favorite game?

Hours Played vs. Favorite Game | The Great Debate in Gaming

By

Isabella Rossi

Jan 22, 2026, 12:55 AM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

Updated

Jan 22, 2026, 10:43 AM

2 minutes of duration

A person sitting with a game controller, contemplating their favorite game, surrounded by various game titles on the screen.
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A lively discussion among gamers questions whether the hours put into a game determine its status as a favorite. Participants share experiences on forums, stirring a variety of opinions.

Context of the Ongoing Debate

The conversation gained momentum when a player expressed their love for Dishonored, mentioning a few hundred hours spent yet still eager to revisit it yearly. This prompted others to ponder if playtime truly reflects a game's personal significance.

Emerging Themes from the Conversation

  1. Quality Over Quantity: Several gamers firmly assert that the time spent doesn't equate to enjoyment. One player remarked, "Your favorite game may not be the one you have the most hours in."

  2. Replay Value Is Key: Some emphasized high replay value as a factor in favorite game choices. A commenter highlighted Rocket League, stating, "Every match feels different," showcasing how accessibility influences preferences.

  3. Unique Personal Connections: The debate also spotlighted individual gaming experiences. One player noted about Symphony of the Night, "It isnโ€™t something you replay over and over," proving that emotional resonance matters just as much as playtime.

Interestingly, additional comments challenged existing beliefs, stating, "Animal Crossing: New Horizons probably tops my playtime list but is definitely not my favorite game of all time." Another player echoed similar sentiments about League of Legends, saying, "I've spent the most time playing it, despite hating many aspects." These mixed views suggest complexity in gaming loyalty.

"Some games are so sensational a 10-hour playthrough brings you the same joy as 100 hours in a different game." - Commenter perspective

Insights into Gaming Preferences

This ongoing dialogue illustrates that gaming preferences may hinge more on emotional connections and unique experiences rather than the sheer number of hours played. Such sentiments led one commenter to state, "Favorite doesnโ€™t always equal best or most played," highlighting the nuanced nature of joy in gaming.

Noteworthy Observations

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Numerous gamers believe playtime is secondary to enjoyment.

  • โš–๏ธ High replay value significantly influences favorite game choices.

  • ๐ŸŒŒ Emotional ties heavily impact opinions on beloved titles.

As the gaming landscape shifts, many seem to favor personal experiences over mere statistics. Will developers adapt to emphasize narratives and connections, rather than just playtime metrics? This thrilling debate amongst gamers shows no signs of slowing down.