When meeting up with your date in-person isn’t an option, going on a virtual date is the next best thing.
But let’s be real–virtual dating has its fair share of awkward moments.
If you’ve ever been on a virtual date before, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
With virtual dating, there are no outside distractions to help you make small talk.
And so, if you’re not great at carrying on a conversation, awkward silences will inevitably ensue.
Thankfully, there are plenty of fun virtual date games that can take away some of the painful awkwardness.
Even better news?
Many of these virtual date games can help you grow closer as a couple.
Here are three things you should know about virtual date games:
- When asking your partner open-ended questions, be careful to avoid intrusive questions.
- Activities that encourage shared laughter will help you grow closer as a couple.
- Prepare for your virtual date by putting effort into your appearance.
Ready to have a blast on your next virtual date?
Here are seven virtual date games that are sure to ignite a few sparks:
1. Play Truth or Dare
Playing truth or dare with your date can be risky (you simply can’t unlearn some things once you know them).
That being said, it’s an undeniably fun game to play.
You can always keep it relatively clean and tame for a first date.
But if you’re more comfortable with each other, try spicing things up with some dirty questions and dares.
Download a truth-or-dare app from the app store and let the fun begin.
2. Take Quizzes
Bored to tears and can’t think of anything to do?
Take a few quizzes with your partner to test your compatibility and learn more about each other.
Start with the 16Personalities quiz or the Enneagram Personality Test and see what each of you gets.
If things don’t work out, you can always put your test result on your Tinder profile.
TRY MEN’S SKIN CARE3. Cook Together
Forget about unhealthy takeout.
Why not cook at home with your partner on a video call?
Not only is cooking at home cheaper and healthier than takeout, it’s also a great way to relax and wind down with your partner after a long day.
Start by brainstorming recipes in a shared Google doc and choose something that will please both your palates.
Then, prepare the meal “together” in your own kitchens.
When you’re both finished, sit down and enjoy it together on your video call.
4. Watch a Funny Movie
Laughter is a great stress-reliever (something we could all use right now).
But more importantly, sharing laughs is key to a happy, healthy relationship.
In fact, a 2015 study published in Personal Relationships found that shared laughter between romantic couples is positively associated with relationship satisfaction and closeness (see claim: “…the proportion of the conversation spent laughing simultaneously with the romantic partner was uniquely positively associated with global evaluations of relationship quality, closeness, and social support.”)
To get the laughs rolling, choose a comedy on Netflix that neither of you has seen.
Then, sync up your screens by downloading Netflix Party and laugh all your stress away.
5. Have a Q & A
Going on a first date with someone?
Ask them if they’re down for a little Q & A session.
Asking your date open-ended questions (i.e., which famous person would you like to have as a dinner guest, and why?) can reveal fascinating tidbits about them.
Plus, it can help create a sense of intimacy.
Ever heard about the famous study in which researchers have couples ask 36 questions that lead to love?
Of course, the 36 questions may be a little much for a first date.
However, there’s clearly some evidence that asking such questions can make you feel closer to your partner.
TAKE THE SKIN CARE QUIZ6. Make It a Double Date
Do you and your partner have any couple friends?
Consider scheduling a virtual double date with them to make things more interesting.
Not only are double dates incredibly fun, they can also spice up you and your partner’s relationship.
A 2010 study published in Personal Relationships found that when couples went on double dates and had intense interactions, they felt closer to their own romantic partner (see claim: “Further, couples in the high‐disclosure condition felt closer to their own partners.”)
7. Play a Video Game Together
The couples who play video games together, stay together.
After all, you don’t really know someone until you see how they respond to you hurling blue shells at them while playing Mario Kart.
If they respond with grace (and by grace, we mean dropping a banana in front of you as payback), they’re definitely a keeper.
Remember: It’s Still a Date!
With these virtual date games and activities, you’re guaranteed to have a blast.
But keep in mind that you’re still trying to impress your date.
Remember to look the part by dressing nice and taking good care of your skin.
A little effort can go a long way in helping you score another date!
References
Kurtz, Laura E., and Sara B. Algoe. “Putting Laughter in Context: Shared Laughter as Behavioral Indicator of Relationship Well-Being.” Personal Relationships, vol. 22, no. 4, 2015, pp. 573–90.
Aron, Arthur, et al. “The Experimental Generation of Interpersonal Closeness: A Procedure and Some Preliminary Findings.” Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, vol. 23, no. 4, SAGE Publications Inc, Apr. 1997, pp. 363–77.
Slatcher, Richard B. “When Harry and Sally Met Dick and Jane: Creating Closeness between Couples.” Personal Relationships, vol. 17, no. 2, 2010, pp. 279–97.
