Wait, couples play video games together? Yup, they sure do! Don’t let the internet make you think that if one partner plays games, it means the other gets neglected. Sure, that can happen, but it doesn’t need to.
Playing games together is fun. It has a plethora of benefits, and we have compiled a list including just some of them. Take a good look and dive deep into the world of gaming. With your partner, of course.
The Benefits of Playing Video Games
Yes, you did read that correctly. There are actual studies done on the benefits of gaming. We’re not sure why everyone is still surprised by that.
When designing first games, we’re sure that game developers had only one thing in mind — fun! However, it turns out that gaming can benefit you in many other ways, and the video game industry has realized that too. We need to make something very clear, though. When we talk about games, we include all games in the conversation: puzzle games, adventure games, kids games.
With that in mind, did you know that games can slow the aging process? That’s right! They can also help you make new friends or teach you some actual leadership skills. Gaming can help reduce stress and ease the pain. Seriously! It’s a simple matter of having your attention on something else.
So, we suggest you think twice the next time you think something bad about gaming. Try it instead.
Disadvantages of Playing Video Games When You Have a Partner
Here we come to some slight disadvantages. Having a partner is a wonderful thing. But being a gamer and having a partner that doesn’t play or understand gaming can be a bit difficult. How so? Well, your partner gets left out of all the fun.
However, if you turn gaming into a couple’s activity, it’s benefits galore! Yes, couples do play video games. They make some amazing teams as well. So, do try to get your partner to warm up to it. There are so many games out there to play! There’s bound to be something that catches their attention.
Quality Time
Let’s start with some benefits, then, shall we? One of them is that you get to spend quality time together, even if you’re in a long-distance relationship! There are some pretty good online games out there.
Sometimes you get tired of doing the same thing over and over. Either you go to the movies, grab a coffee, or take a walk. Things can get a little repetitive. Not with gaming! You can play whatever game you find appealing and bond over it. We promise you’ll never find yourselves bored again.
To make things fair, take turns picking games to play.
Improve Communication
Just like sex, video games require communication even if you play those games for little kids. You know, the dress-up kind of games. They still require communication. You have to be able to agree on which color the dress should be, duh!
It’s similar for all other games, especially strategies and shooter games. We’ll be honest, though — games can often cause arguments between partners. One of them always has to know better. The other one gets angry because nothing is going right.
In situations like that, you have to be able to diffuse. That’s how you learn to communicate way better.
Brings You Closer Together
This one should be obvious. Spending time together, in general, brings you closer together. Gaming together does the same. That’s what working towards a common goal usually does.
Gaming can significantly improve your relationship altogether. It just needs a little bit of work. You won’t be great at every single game, and neither will you enjoy all games. It’s important to find something that suits you both. That way, you won’t run into any issues with one partner secretly being mad that you’re not playing something they want.
Work As a Team
Having a common goal brings us to yet another benefit — working as a team. You have to be close already for something like this. You also have to have your communication all worked out. Otherwise, your team won’t work as it should.
Games like League of Legends, World of Warcraft, or Guild Wars require some serious collaboration. Not just between you and your partner, but between other players too. However, you and your sweetheart can ensure that you can show these other teams how it’s done! How do you do that? With lots of practice, of course. Practice makes perfect.
Having Each Other’s Back
Caring for each other is a natural part of every relationship. So is having each other’s backs. They kind of go hand in hand.
In games, though, that has to be amplified, especially if you’re playing games that require you to form teams, like aforementioned. You have to make sure the enemy doesn’t come after your beloved! And if they do, it’s revenge time.
Things like that can be really cute. They can show how much your partner cares, even if it’s just a game.
Fun Memories Together
After all, having fun is the main reason people play games. That should be your main reason, too. It just has many benefits, is all that we’re saying.
There are some quite silly games out there. So, what does that mean for you and your partner? Lots of laughter! Soon you’ll be remembering that time you laughed so hard you almost peed. Or that time you had so much trouble finishing a mission before you finally did it.
Those are memories worth creating. Gaming is not childish, and even if people think it is, it’s fun when you have someone to be childish with.
Summary
So, did we change your mind? Playing video games on your own is fun enough. But playing with a loved one? Double the fun!
You can learn a lot while gaming with your partner. Mainly, you can discover what they’re like as a person and as a team player, as well as the things they’re good at. You can learn what makes them annoyed or angry, and your communication drastically improves.
Isn’t that something every couple should want?