PewDiePie, the former most-subscribed YouTuber, has revealed that he is officially stepping away from video games after 13 years on the platform, telling followers that fatherhood and shifting priorities have changed how he uses his time.
The creator, whose real name is Felix Kjellberg, shared the update in the latest edition of the Kjellberg Mail newsletter, stating that 'every hour has weight now' and that he would 'rather be doing something else' than returning to long gaming sessions.
The announcement signals a significant milestone for one of YouTube's most influential gaming creators.
Fatherhood Reshapes How He Spends His Time
In the newsletter, PewDiePie explained that becoming a father has altered his day-to-day decisions. He noted that while he still plays around 30 minutes of games occasionally, the long, immersive sessions that once defined his channel are now a thing of the past.
He wrote that if he truly wanted to, there would still be time to play video games, but his limited hours are now dedicated to what he considers more meaningful pursuits.
The shift reflects a broader lifestyle change and a new phase of personal growth. Kjellberg said his priorities have expanded well beyond gaming, as he has become increasingly conscious of how he chooses to spend his time.
A Long-Awaited Shift Away From Gaming Content
For long-time followers, PewDiePie's move away from gaming will not come as a major surprise. In 2017, he uploaded a video titled Why I Don't Play Video Games Anymore, candidly acknowledging that his enthusiasm for standard Let's Play content had already begun to fade.
Over the years, viewers have watched his channel pivot towards lifestyle vlogs, travel content, personal reflections, and hobby-driven projects.
While gaming was the foundation of his massive audience growth, Kjellberg's output has steadily evolved to reflect broader interests and creative experimentation. His more recent uploads continue that direction, further reinforcing his statement that gaming is no longer central to his routine.
Why His New YouTube Direction Matters
PewDiePie admitted that his former cycle of constant gaming and YouTube production left little room for personal development.
In the newsletter, he wrote that he had been 'so preoccupied with YouTube and gaming' that he failed to invest enough time in learning new skills or exploring pursuits beyond content creation.
This realisation, he said, motivated his shift towards more educational, experimental and hands-on projects. His new approach has pushed him into areas ranging from technology and craftsmanship to general personal development, reflecting a desire to extend his knowledge and skill set.
Audience reception has been largely positive. Many of his recent projects continue to draw millions of views, suggesting that his fanbase has embraced the change in content direction.
New Projects Gain Strong Traction on YouTube
Among his latest ventures is a video chronicling his first attempt at building a PC, which amassed more than 4.8 million views. A follow-up titled Accidentally Build a Nuclear Supercomputer reached 2.7 million views, highlighting strong engagement with his skill-driven content.
Despite occasional mixed reactions, Kjellberg said he remains unfazed by criticism. He noted that some viewers are surprised by how quickly he picks up new skills, while others assume he has unlimited free time. He rejected that notion, stressing that he does not have 'infinite time' but consciously chooses to spend it on activities he considers worthwhile.
Fans Respond as Gaming Era Comes to a Close
Reactions across social media have blended nostalgia with encouragement. Some fans expressed sorrow at the end of the marathon gaming era, while others praised his focus on fatherhood, growth and balance.
Industry observers also note that PewDiePie's transition reflects a wider trend among digital creators who are increasingly prioritising well-being, family life and long-term personal development over relentless posting schedules.
