You should always be receptive to feedback about any unconscious behaviors or aspects of gaming that can feel hostile toward non-dominant genders. For heterosexual couples especially, be mindful of gatekeeping gender dynamics often embedded into gaming culture. Avoid all pressure to win or 'get good,' encouraging them as they overcome the steeper learning curve. So be grateful for the effort and as welcoming as possible. If one partner is less into gaming than the other, remember that they're going outside their comfort zone to participate in something you love. We've included many beginner-friendly titles, along with cooperative campaigns featuring secondary protagonists who play more passive roles, and single player experiences where a partner can just sit back and vicariously take it all in without ever needing to touch a controller themselves. Relatedly, online multiplayer games like Fornite simply don't invest much into designing a good split-screen mode, rendering many a bit glitchy.ĭespite those challenges, we've assembled the cream of the crop of couch co-ops, online multiplayer games you can play locally together through split screen, online multiplayers better suited to long-distance couples on virtual dates, and even solo games where it's fun to watch each other as you take turns playing.ĭon't worry if one partner has less experience playing video games. Sadly, local multiplayer (otherwise known as 'couch co-op,' where you play in the same IRL space together, often on the same device through split screen) is something of a dying category in modern gaming. I mean, a couple that can survive a zombie apocalypse in Resident Evil or the betrayal of stealing each other's stars in Mario Party is a couple that's built to last. The right cooperative video game often helps players strengthen our bonds to one another, test our ability to communicate in high-pressure stressful situations, teach us how to work together to meet challenges, and (best of all) provide hours upon hours of shared laughter. In all seriousness, the act of play can be essential to maintaining a healthy, loving, long-lasting relationship. But have you tried staying indoors to cuss profusely at video games you're bad at together? Sure, romantic nights out on the town for Valentine's Day are great and all.

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