Play These Fun Long-Distance Games Together

Long-distance games can make you feel closer despite being miles apart.

They say an all-work, no-play lifestyle makes Jack a dull man. And there is some truth to that saying. A little entertainment here and there won’t hurt, especially when you’re in a long-distance relationship. And trust us: you’ll need a lot of it.

Distance poses obstacles that can sometimes be a lot to take on. Some days will definitely be harder than others. And with that, you need some amusement to keep the sparks flying from afar. What better way to inject fun than through playing long-distance games? A little healthy competition can even be sexy

Bridge the gap and add some adrenaline with our suggestions.

Play Games, Not Hearts; Here’s Why

We all do what we can to keep ourselves entertained, yes? For some people, it’s through playing games.

Others, however, have issues with this form of amusement. They find them distracting because of their time-consuming nature (video games, especially). The more they keep playing, the more they lose track of time and forget about other things.

Cons aside, playing games does have its upsides—even for adults.

Per a BBC report, the playfulness that people demonstrate when playing video games helps boost motivation, creativity, and spontaneity while lowering blood pressure. Psychologist Federica Pallavicini experienced some of those benefits after playing Call of Duty (CoD). It even inspired her career in research.

Are you still warming up to the idea? These other upsides may convince you to pick up a card, console, or joystick:

#1: They’re simply fun!

Whether you’re playing a board game or a role-playing game (RPG), you can’t deny the entertainment they bring. They’re a nice break from the hustle and bustle of modern living.

You two may be far apart, but a deck of Uno cards, for example, will make that distance feel more or less invisible. Nothing else matters but you and your partner. As you play on, you won’t even notice the clock ticking away, time differences aside.

And because they’re enjoyable, they make great date ideas for LDR couples. The friendly competition is a refreshing twist to otherwise stale and uneventful nights.

Long-distance couple games are more than just a means to kill time.

#2: Games enhance communication.

Don’t get us wrong—watch parties are great! There’s a reason they remain date night staples to this day. But hear us out: give game nights a try.

Movies and shows require little to no talking since they demand full attention. You can only get the chit-chat going after watching. While games need concentration, some communication is also necessary. Co-op games, for example, require teamwork, so you two have to strategize to win.

That cooperation can bleed over into real life. If you find yourselves in a rough patch while dating long-distance, you can apply the takeaways from your gaming session to work better together.

#3: You’ll form a stronger bond.

Since video games introduce something new to your relationship—whether it be an experience or insight—you’ll have another thing to bond over.

One of you may already be a gamer, and you’re introducing your partner to this side of you. Whether they get into it or not, you learn something about each other.

#4: They make for a happier relationship.

Since video games are fun, people undoubtedly find joy in them. That may be your happy hormones talking.

A Baylor University study pointed out that playing board games or taking painting classes together releases oxytocin (a.k.a. the “hugging hormone”). Although oxytocin levels were highest in men in the art classes, it’s not that far off from the men and women who played board games.

Are you finally convinced? If so, call your long-distance partner and suggest a game night. We’re sure they’ll be 100% open to the idea.

How to Pull Off Game Nights

It’s time to plan! But before we get into our game recommendations, here are some pointers to keep in mind:

#1: Be intentional

Wanting to have fun is different from actualizing it. Make it happen by putting it on your calendars. Marking a specific time and date makes it more likely to happen.

#2: Let loose

Since you’re playing games, let go! There’s no need to act seriously when holding a card or a console. Relax and allow yourself to be a kid again. Letting loose will make for a more fun experience.

#3: Keep an open mind

While board and video games aren’t serious matters, some people have reservations about them. And that’s okay! That’s normal if you haven’t dipped your toes into them. As long as you’re open to new experiences, you should be good.

#4: Don’t get too competitive, though

There’s a difference between healthy and over-competition. The former is fun and friendly, while the latter breeds toxicity. You two shouldn’t let a game be the cause of a fight.

Long-Distance Couple Games to Try

Have a little friendly competition and add fun spins to video chats and virtual dates with these long-distance games:

Heads Up!

If you’re looking for online phone games to play with a long-distance girlfriend, this one may be up your alley. All players have to do is download it from their phones’ app stores.

Once installation is complete, they can choose a category from various options. They should hold their phones horizontally on their foreheads for better visibility. From there, the guessing games begin. The player with the most guesses within the time limit wins.

It Takes Two

This co-op game pushes couples to strengthen their teamwork. Even the strongest partners can use a boost in that department.

Players here will be playing May and Cody—a soon-to-be-divorced couple. Did that catch your attention? Here’s another twist: they’ve been turned into dolls. This leaves them with no choice but to work together to get out of their conundrums and revert to their human forms.

Unlike many co-op games, this one does away with sidekicks. Both players should have equal participation to win.

Overcooked

Like It Takes Two, Overcooked is a co-op game. But the difference here is that it’s set in a busy kitchen—a chaotic and high-pressure environment. The cooking simulator game’s fast-paced setting encourages players to think on their feet while being on the same page.

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Give long-distance games a try! You’ll find something new to connect over and new memories to cherish.