AITA for playing alone after my bf tell me to wait for 3hrs?

Sometimes gaming isn’t just a way to relax—it’s a shared activity that helps keep a relationship connected. I (23F) have been playing 7 Days to Die (7DTD) with my boyfriend (23M) for about a week, a game that I genuinely enjoy for its relaxed pace and creativity. However, since his interest shifted to the newly launched Marvel Rival, which he now plays every day, I’ve found myself frequently left to play 7DTD on my own.

I value our gaming time together, and after waiting for days to set aside a slot for 7DTD, I grew frustrated when he later asked me to wait until 10 p.m. because he had already promised Marvel Rival time with a friend who’d been waiting for hours.

Given my strict midnight bedtime and the fact that he ditched me last Friday to play Marvel Rival, I told him I’d just play alone instead of waiting. Now, he’s accusing me of being impatient and unfair for ditching his friend. Am I the asshole for choosing to play alone instead of waiting?

‘ AITA for playing alone after my bf tell me to wait for 3hrs?’

Dr. Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist specializing in relationship dynamics, explains, “When a couple shares an activity such as gaming, it can be a significant way to maintain connection. If one partner consistently delays or cancels shared activities for other commitments, it can create feelings of neglect and resentment. It’s important for both partners to openly discuss their expectations and priorities.”

She adds, “In this situation, your frustration is valid—especially when clear communication about expectations hasn’t translated into reliable shared time. Your decision to play alone is a form of setting boundaries that protect your own enjoyment and schedule. However, it could be beneficial to revisit these conversations calmly to reach a compromise that works for both of you.”

Dr. John Gottman, a relationship expert, notes, “Balancing individual interests with shared time can be challenging. It’s essential that both partners feel heard. If one partner’s social commitments consistently push aside shared time, it’s a signal that a reevaluation of priorities might be necessary. Finding a solution that respects both personal space and mutual enjoyment can help avoid long-term resentment.”

Here’s the feedback from the Reddit community:

Several redditors expressed strong support for your decision. One user commented, “If you’ve been waiting for days and have a strict bedtime, you’re not the asshole for opting to play alone. Your time is valuable, too.”

Another shared, “It sounds like your boyfriend’s been inconsistent about prioritizing your gaming time. Sometimes tough love means insisting on respect for your schedule. You’re justified in feeling upset if he ditched you before.”