Why Beginner Game Devs Burn Out (I Quit for 2 Years)

I did not burn out because I was lazy. I burned out because I was trying too hard. In this video I share my honest game dev burnout story: why I quit game development for 2 years, the mistakes that got me there, and how I'm coming back slower and smarter. If you're a beginner indie dev learning from YouTube, rushing toward a first hit, or trying to make your first game perfect, this one is for you. Chapters: 00:00 I didn't burn out because I was lazy 00:36 Starting game dev with no degree (YouTube only) 01:23 The hype trap: chasing a first-time hit 02:09 What burnout really is (Freudenberger & Maslach) 03:05 Perfectionism and the 3 AM jump 04:23 The gap between taste and skill (Ira Glass) 05:09 4 more burnout traps: comparison, isolation, scope creep, self-worth 06:02 When I stopped looking after myself 06:39 The price no sales number can refund 07:12 What stepping away taught me 07:43 How I'm coming back 08:16 Try this in your next session 08:48 If you're feeling it right now 09:15 Final message If you're struggling, please talk to someone you trust, or a doctor or counselor. Subscribe to Cronic Game for honest, beginner-friendly indie game dev stories. #gamedev #indiedev #burnout