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Ashamed of how much I've spent on a stupid mobile game

105 replies

CareHomeWorries · 30/03/2026 17:27

Been having a really rough time so far this year (my mum died, my dad was moved into a care home, my car was written off by a drunk driver crashing into it and I've been suffering with very severe anxiety)

I've been playing a stupid game called Gecko Out. It's a puzzle game and has been a good distraction from everything. I've just looked properly at my bank and I've spent £100+ on buying coins and power ups.

I feel so ashamed and bloody stupid for doing it. I can afford it but it's such a waste of money. Just didn't realize how often I was spending money on it, especially when it was just a couple of quid at a time. I've deleted it now and won't do it again but I feel awful over wasting the money.

OP posts:
CocoJone · 30/03/2026 17:33

I spent nearly 6k on a game called Last Fortress over the course of last year. I had no idea until I added it all up. I absolutely kicked myself. I had to delete it and really give myself a massive kick up the bum. You aren’t alone. These games are designed to draw you in without realising. Deleting them is the only way to move forward.

SoftandQuiet · 30/03/2026 17:33

You are being unreasonable to feel ashamed. It could have been magazines, alcohol, cinema, whatever to relax and de-stress. It's not a lot to have spent in a few months.

ExtraOnions · 30/03/2026 17:32

People spend a lot more on their hobbies. Did you enjoy it? Was it a good distraction? If you can afford it I wouldn’t worry about it.

FeliciaFancybottom · 30/03/2026 17:31

It's done now, no point beating yourself up over it. We've all done stupid things.

Forty85 · 30/03/2026 17:30

It's not the end of the world and no reason to feel ashamed. You've been going through a hard time and it's been an escape, some people in your situation would have spent the same money on more on wine, takeaways, snacks etc. Youve realised now and put a stop to it before it got to a really high amount. Just move on from it now you don't need to dwell on it or make yourself feel bad. Sorry you've had such a hard time, hope things get easier for you.