I know that sounds a really stupid question, but I(38M)'m always being an avid fan of games (not necessarily good, but still love it)and I got through various stages with my 20 years relationship wife (40F) about this hobby.

At first, open wide criticism, then some comprehension (so it seems), to the actual stage. I'm on a academic masters course (not really enjoying it, but doing for career reasons), and gaming to stress relief (since I have serious trouble on my workplace, better not detailing it) and she making it clear that it's messing up with me, "not making me better". Not with the relationship, not with her specifically, but with myself (on her point of view).

As I said, it's not my best moment in life, but I don't using games as an escape; I observe the time I'm playing, NEVER miss an appointment or some request from wife because of gaming but... Still the "complain".

I'm not the angry gamer stereotype, barely whims on a game over, or vent a little "damn".

As a cherry to the top, I got my nephews as visit some days ago (we don't have kids) and both (M13 and M7) ask me "how is to play games after being old?" aaaand it hit me. No guilt on the brats, but it made me questioning indeed.

What do you people think? I'm really opened to listen every position about it, mainly the negative ones, for truly understand it.