So, long (long) term gamer here. Case in point, partner went out for dinner with a friend so I just sunk 6 hours into an old favourite (a game older than my students).

A relationship is a two way street - sometimes you do need that space for a solo hobby, other times your partner needs you. You find that balance, but not always.

Sometimes a partner wants too much alone time, sometimes they never let you be alone. Neither of partner is a bad person, it's just a difference found in people.

The best advice is to have a chat, negotiate a little, find a middle ground where you're both happy. My partner wanted a bit more physical affection, I wanted a bit less verbal, we found a happy mix. If you're burning for a talk, maybe write down what you want to say to get your thoughts clear, think about your wants and needs, then have a friendly chat over tea (or video game genocide - you'd be amazed).

Maybe ask him to explain the game to you next time he's playing. Might be a good opener to share your own hobbies and get a dialog started.

Right now, he's using games as trash compactor. An emotional void where he throws himself as a form of escape. It will work less and less over time.

It's healthier to find a more constructive hobby and spend the money he uses on games there. But he has to want it and find the will to go through it.

If he reached the point of feeling an obligation towards those games, then it's time to start distancing himself from them. Because they're the easier choice and complacency.

Instead of a subscription, loot boxes or daily checkpoints, take the money and use it for a course teaching a trade he feels attracted to. It will help him way much more in the long run.

Alternatively, start playing games with him and beat his ass.