Dates 5 min read
First Date Ideas for Gamers
Places where there is something to do and room to talk, from board game cafés to arcade bars, and what to keep for later dates.
By the Gamer Singles Dating team
In short
- Pick a first date with something to do and room to talk, such as a board game café or arcade bar.
- Choose co-operative games over competitive ones for a first meeting.
- Conventions and long sessions usually suit a second or third date better.
- Meet somewhere public and get yourself there and back.
Good first dates for gamers give you something to do with your hands and plenty of chances to talk: a board game café, an arcade or retro gaming bar, a VR arcade, a convention or a crazy golf course all work. Pick somewhere public, keep it to a couple of hours, and save the eight-hour co-op session for when you know each other.
A board game café
The classic for a reason. You choose a game together, which tells you a lot about each other, staff will teach you the rules, and there are natural pauses for conversation. Choose something light and co-operative for a first date; save the four-hour strategy epic and the game that ends friendships for later.
An arcade or retro gaming bar
Most cities have at least one bar with arcade cabinets, pinball or consoles on the wall. It suits people who like a bit of friendly competition and gives you an easy way to start: challenge each other to the machine you were best at as a kid. Go early in the evening when it is quieter.
A VR arcade or escape room
Both are short, booked in advance and built for two to four people working together. They show you how someone handles a puzzle and a bit of pressure, and you will have something to laugh about afterwards. Pick a team mode rather than one where you play against each other.
A convention or esports event
If you both like the same scene, a comic con, a games expo or a viewing night for a tournament makes a full day out. It is busier and louder than a first date usually needs, so it often works better as a second or third date, or as a meet-up with a group of friends.
Something that is not gaming at all
A walk, a coffee, a museum. Shared hobbies are a reason to start talking, not a rule about what you must do together. A plain coffee can be the easiest first date of all, with gaming saved for later.
Playing online before you meet
A few sessions together online is a good step before meeting. Play something co-operative, use party chat rather than giving out your number, and notice how the other person treats you and their teammates.
Keep it safe
Meet in public, tell a friend where you are going, and make your own way there and back. Stay on the site's messages until you trust the person, and never send money or game credit to someone you have not met. The safety page has the full list.
Questions people ask
What is a good first date for two gamers?
A board game café or an arcade bar: there is something to do together and room to talk, and both are public.
Should we play online before meeting?
It is a good idea: you see how someone treats you and their teammates. Use party chat rather than sharing your phone number.