Keeping play in balance

Set the budget before the shop opens

Decide on a monthly amount for games before you look at a store, not while an offer is on screen. Write it down. If a pass or a new edition does not fit this month, it will usually still be there next month, often cheaper.

• Use the platform's own spending limit to make the budget stick, even on your own account.
• Consider prepaid options such as a gift card for a fixed amount, so the budget has a hard edge.
• Remove saved cards from consoles and PCs that other people use.

See through premium currencies

Many free games sell their own currency in bundles that never quite match item prices, so there is always something left over. Before buying, convert the item price back to pounds using the bundle you would actually buy. Every review here does that sum for you in the true cost panel.

Keep an eye on time

• Most platforms can show weekly playtime reports. Looking at them once a week is enough to spot drift.
• Take a short break at natural stopping points: the end of a match, a chapter or a save.
• Screen time schedules on consoles and phones work for adults too, not just children.

If you are a parent

Set up a family group on each platform your child uses, turn on purchase approval or a monthly limit, and talk about what things cost in real pounds. Our spending controls guides walk through each platform step by step. PEGI age ratings are on every review.

Where to get help in the UK

If spending on games has become hard to control, or it is causing money worries, free and confidential help is available.

• MoneyHelper: free, government-backed guidance on budgeting and debt.
• Citizens Advice: help with consumer problems, refunds and disputes with sellers.
• NHS mental health services: if time spent playing is affecting sleep, work, school or mood.
• Ask About Games: plain guides for parents from the video game rating bodies.