Someone asked me in a DM how I got into trophy hunting so I figured I'd write it up properly here because it's a question I get a lot.
The short answer is: I platinumed Astro's Playroom by accident. It came free with my PS5, I played it, I enjoyed it, I mopped up the trophies because they were fun to get, and when that platinum notification popped I felt something shift in my brain chemistry.
Here's what I've learned after 4 years and 200+ platinums:
START WITH EASY PLATINUMS, NO SHAME IN IT
There is an entire category of games that exist almost specifically to be platinumed. Short walking simulators, visual novels, narrative games with no missable trophies. Getting those first few platinums builds the habit and teaches you how to approach lists without the pressure of a genuinely difficult game.
USE PSNPROFILES.COM
This site is essential. Every trophy list with guides, difficulty ratings, time estimates, and tips from people who have done it before you. I check this before buying any game.
MISSABLE TROPHIES ARE THE ENEMY
Before you start any game, check whether it has missable trophies. Some games will let you clean up in free roam after the story. Others will lock you out forever if you miss a single conversation option in chapter 3. Know before you start.
ONE PLAYTHROUGH VS TWO
Some platinums require multiple playthroughs — different endings, difficulty trophies, etc. Knowing this upfront lets you plan. Sometimes you can combine runs with the right approach.
THE ONLINE TROPHY PROBLEM
Some games have online trophies that become unobtainable when servers shut down. Check server status on older games before investing time.
Any questions, happy to help. What's your first platinum?