Responsible Gaming

Playing responsibly keeps the fun healthy. Here is everything you need to know.

ThamesValleyJourney is a free-to-play entertainment platform. No real money is involved. River Coins have no monetary value and cannot be redeemed. This page provides guidance for mindful, healthy engagement with social gaming.

Our Commitment

Even though ThamesValleyJourney does not involve real money, we take the wellbeing of our players seriously. We recognise that habitual gaming — with or without financial stakes — can sometimes develop into patterns that affect a person's daily life, relationships, or mental health.

We are committed to providing tools, information, and resources that help our community engage with the Platform in a healthy, balanced way.

Signs of Unhealthy Gaming Habits

Consider whether any of the following apply to you:

  • You spend more time gaming than you intended
  • Gaming is interfering with work, study, or personal relationships
  • You feel restless, irritable, or anxious when not gaming
  • You use gaming as a way to escape stress, anxiety, or negative feelings
  • You have tried to reduce your gaming time but found it difficult
  • You neglect sleep, meals, or exercise in favour of gaming sessions

If any of these resonate with you, please consider the steps below.

Practical Self-Care Steps

  • Set a time limit. Decide before you start how long you will play, and stick to it. Use your phone's screen time features to help.
  • Take regular breaks. Step away for at least 10 minutes every hour. Stretch, hydrate, and reconnect with your surroundings.
  • Balance gaming with other activities. Ensure gaming is just one part of a varied, fulfilling life — not a substitute for it.
  • Talk about it. If you feel gaming is becoming a concern, speak to someone you trust — a friend, family member, or professional.
  • Clear your browser data. If you need a complete break from the Platform, simply clear your browser's localStorage to reset your session.

Professional Support Organisations

The following organisations offer free, confidential support for people experiencing difficulties with gaming or gambling habits. We encourage anyone who feels they need help to reach out:

🤝

Gamblers Anonymous

A fellowship of men and women sharing experience, strength, and hope to recover from problem gambling.

gamblersanonymous.org →
💚

GambleAware

A leading UK charity providing information, advice, and referrals for people affected by problem gambling.

gambleaware.org →
🌐

NCPG

The National Council on Problem Gambling provides helplines and treatment referrals across the United States.

ncpgambling.org →

A Note to Parents and Guardians

ThamesValleyJourney is strictly for adults aged 18 and over. If you are a parent or guardian, please ensure children in your care do not access this Platform. Consider using browser parental controls to restrict access.

Our Pledge

We will never use manipulative design patterns, artificial urgency, or other dark UX techniques to pressure players into extended play. Our games are designed to be enjoyable — not addictive by design. We will always maintain this standard.