Play well
Games that fit around a life.
Browser RPGs and MMOs are built to bring you back every day. A few habits keep them in their place.
Set an end time
A browser tab has no natural ending. Decide when you will stop before you start, and set an alarm on your phone rather than relying on noticing the time.
Rest your eyes
Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet (6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds.
Sit well
Keep the top of the screen near eye level, rest your feet flat and get up every hour to stretch your wrists, back and neck.
Know the shop
Every game in the deck can take money in some way, from a donation in Kingdom of Loathing to subscriptions, premium currencies and paid character draws. Set a monthly limit before you open a shop, and never use money meant for bills.
Premium currencies and items have no value outside the game, and most games do not refund them.
When it starts to feel like a chore
If you log in out of duty rather than for fun, take a week off. Your village, crew or skills will still be there, and many games reward players who come back.
If it is getting hard to stop
If gaming or spending is costing you sleep, work, school or money, talk to someone you trust. In the UK your GP can refer you to NHS support for problem gaming.