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How Long to Beat: The Ultimate Guide for Gamers and Completionists
How Long to Beat
Ever looked at your massive backlog of games and thought, “How long is this going to take?” You’re not alone. Time is precious, especially in the modern world where juggling work, life, and hobbies is an everyday challenge. That’s where HowLongToBeat comes in.
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just dabble on weekends, understanding how much time a game demands can be a game-changer (pun intended). In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of this essential gamer tool, break down how it works, and reveal how you can use it to make smarter choices about your gaming time.
The Origin of HowLongToBeat.com
Born out of necessity, HowLongToBeat (often abbreviated as HLTB) was created by a group of gamers frustrated by not knowing how much time they needed to invest in a game. Originally a simple user-submission site, it quickly evolved into a data-driven community that now hosts playtime stats for thousands of games across all platforms.
Why Knowing Game Length Matters
Gaming isn’t just about fun anymore—it’s about making informed decisions. Here’s why playtime matters:
- Time Management: Planning your week? Knowing whether a game takes 10 hours or 80 helps.
- Value for Money: At $60 a pop, you want to know what you’re getting.
- Commitment Level: Some players prefer short bursts, others enjoy a long-haul adventure.
How the Platform Works
HLTB collects user-submitted data from people who record how long it took them to beat a game. These times are then averaged and displayed under different categories:
Main Story
This is just the core experience—no side quests, no distractions. Perfect for those who want to finish and move on.
Main + Extras
This includes the core story plus some optional content. Think of it as 70-80% completion.
Completionist
This one’s for the die-hards. Every side quest, collectible, and hidden boss. Expect massive numbers here.
Average PlayStyle
This combines all the above categories for an overall average.
Speedruns and Custom Filters
HLTB also includes speedrun data, and users can submit playtime based on difficulty or specific styles (like pacifist runs or 100% stealth).
How to Use HowLongToBeat Effectively
Search and Interpret Data
Just type in the game name and explore the stats. The main screen gives you an overview, while further tabs show user reviews and breakdowns.
Filter by Platform or Genre
Want to know how long a game takes on Switch versus PC? Filter accordingly.
Submit Your Time
Finished a game? Log in and share your hours—it helps improve accuracy for others.
Benefits for Different Gamer Types
Casual Gamers
You only get a few hours a week? HLTB helps you pick shorter, fulfilling titles.
Completionists
Love ticking every box? Use the completionist stat to budget your time.
Reviewers & Creators
Need accurate playtime for a review or video? HLTB is your go-to source.
Parents
Looking for a manageable game for your kids? The site helps assess whether it’s a weekend play or month-long journey.
Limitations and Drawbacks
HLTB is brilliant—but not perfect.
- Inconsistent Submissions: It relies on users self-reporting. Some might forget breaks or leave the game running.
- Style Variations: A stealth player takes longer than a guns-blazing one.
- DLC & Updates: Playtime doesn’t always reflect post-launch content.
The Psychology Behind “Beating” Games
Ever started a long game and felt… overwhelmed? You’re not alone. As games grow in scope, many players experience “game fatigue.” That’s where playtime info helps manage expectations.
Conversely, there’s the dopamine rush of completing a game—crossing it off your list like a finished book. For many, this makes HLTB an essential part of their gaming experience.
Comparing Game Length Across Genres
RPGs
Typically the longest. Games like The Witcher 3 or Persona 5 can stretch to 100+ hours for completionists.
Action/Adventure
Games like Uncharted or Tomb Raider average around 10–25 hours for the main story.
Puzzle Games
Short and sweet. Think Portal or Limbo, often beatable in under 5 hours.
Shooters
Campaigns can range from 6 to 12 hours, but multiplayer adds replayability.
Indie vs AAA
Indies tend to be shorter but emotionally impactful. AAA games are longer with broader content.
Game Length and Replayability
Don’t confuse length with value. A 4-hour game like Inside may offer more emotional punch than a 60-hour grind.
Some short games are worth replaying multiple times with different choices or styles.
Others, like Stardew Valley or Minecraft, offer endless hours without a formal ending.
Top 10 Longest Games on HowLongToBeat
- Monster Hunter: Freedom Unite – 600+ hrs (Completionist)
- Football Manager series – Infinite potential
- The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind – 300+ hrs
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – 200+ hrs with DLCs
- Persona 5 Royal – 150–180 hrs
- Xenoblade Chronicles X – 120+ hrs
- Disgaea 5 – 100–150 hrs
- Divinity: Original Sin II – 100+ hrs
- Red Dead Redemption 2 – 100+ hrs
- Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age – 90+ hrs
Top 10 Shortest Games Worth Playing
- Journey – ~2 hours
- Firewatch – ~4 hours
- Inside – ~3.5 hours
- Gone Home – ~2.5 hours
- What Remains of Edith Finch – ~2–3 hours
- Stanley Parable – ~1 hour (but replayable)
- Donut County – ~2 hours
- Florence – ~1 hour
- ABZÛ – ~2.5 hours
- Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons – ~3 hours
Tips for Speeding Up Game Completion
- Use Guides: Walkthroughs minimize wandering.
- Optimize Builds: Especially in RPGs—min/max everything.
- Skip Optional Stuff: Only if you’re okay with missing lore.
- Play on Easy Mode: No shame—do it for the story.
- Disable Cutscenes: If you’re replaying.
The Rise of the “Game Time Tracker” Culture
Tracking your hours has become a badge of honor. Whether it’s HLTB, Steam’s playtime logs, or Xbox achievements, today’s gamers love numbers.
Apps like GOG Galaxy, Backloggd, or Playnite integrate HLTB data and personal time logs into one neat dashboard.
Alternatives to HowLongToBeat
- Backloggd: A social network for your backlog
- IsThereAnyDeal: Tracks price and game data including HLTB links
- Steam: Shows playtime, but not structured
- GameFAQs: Great for guides, not playtime
How Developers Use Game Length Data
Developers check HLTB data too!
- For QA and testing: Ensuring pacing
- Marketing material: “30+ hours of content!”
- Adjusting design: Based on feedback about length
Shorter games are often praised for being “tight,” while long games are hyped for “depth.”
How Long to Beat
How Long to Beat Conclusion
“How Long to Beat” isn’t just a website—it’s a philosophy. It lets you balance passion and productivity, helping you decide what to play and when. Whether you’re planning your next gaming marathon or looking for a quick weekend adventure, HLTB is your best friend.
The next time you’re on the fence about starting a new title, don’t just ask, “Is this game good?” Ask, “How long to beat?”
How Long to Beat FAQs
1. Is HowLongToBeat accurate?
It’s user-driven, so there’s variation. Still, it’s one of the most reliable sources available.
2. Can I track my own time there?
Yes! You can create an account and log your own hours for every game you play.
3. Does game length include cutscenes?
Generally, yes—unless the user skipped them.
4. What if I play slower than average?
That’s totally okay. Use the range shown on HLTB to estimate your own pace.
5. Is longer always better?
Not at all. A 3-hour masterpiece can outshine a 100-hour grindfest. It’s about impact, not just hours.
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