Gaming can be a fantastic way to bond with your significant other, but what if they’ve never picked up a controller before? If your partner isn’t a gamer, it might take some patience and the right approach to get them interested. The key is to make the experience fun, pressure-free, and tailored to their interests. Here’s how to introduce gaming to your spouse or partner without turning it into a frustrating experience.
Start With Their Interests
Instead of diving straight into your favourite game, consider what your partner already enjoys. Do they love movies? A narrative-driven game like The Last of Us or Life is Strange might hook them. Are they into puzzles? Something like Portal 2 or Tetris Effect could be a great start. Matching the game to their hobbies makes the experience more engaging from the get-go.
Choose Cooperative Games Over Competitive Ones
For a non-gamer, jumping into a highly competitive game like Call of Duty or Street Fighter can be overwhelming. Instead, opt for cooperative games where you can work together. Titles like It Takes Two, Overcooked!, or Stardew Valley allow for teamwork and shared accomplishments, making the experience feel less intimidating.
Keep It Casual and Low-Stress
If your partner feels pressured to “git gud” right away, they might lose interest. Pick games that are beginner-friendly and don’t have high stakes. Party games like Mario Kart, Jackbox Party Pack, or Animal Crossing offer fun, low-pressure experiences where mistakes don’t lead to frustration.
Be Patient and Encouraging
Learning a new skill—especially gaming—takes time. Avoid taking the controller away or getting frustrated if they struggle at first. Instead, celebrate small wins and offer guidance when needed. Remember, the goal isn’t to turn them into a pro gamer overnight but to help them enjoy the experience.
Make It a Shared Experience
Gaming should be a fun activity you both look forward to, not just something you convince them to try once. Set up “game nights” with snacks and a relaxed atmosphere. If your partner enjoys the social aspect, you could even introduce multiplayer experiences with friends or family.
Let Them Set the Pace
Not everyone will fall in love with gaming immediately, and that’s okay. If your partner enjoys it, great! If they prefer to watch rather than play, that’s fine too. The key is to respect their comfort level and not push too hard.
Endgame Thoughts
Introducing your significant other to gaming should be about fun and connection, not about forcing them into your hobby. By choosing the right game, keeping the experience relaxed, and celebrating small victories, you might just find a new co-op partner for life. And if they decide gaming isn’t for them? That’s okay too—there are plenty of other ways to bond. But hey, you never know, remember #funisageless and maybe they’ll be the one convincing you to play The Sims next!
# Fun Is Ageless 