While I agree your friend has made some poor choices, such as blowing away paychecks. The overall sentiment that he is lower than you just because he becomes absorbed in an MMO is kind of condescending. Please understand I'm not trying to knock you or anything.

Is it any worse to be recognized for your accomplishments in a video game, rather than your accomplishments in real life?

I'm not trying to be insulting, and if I have come across that way, I apologize.