Usually we would encourage you to “unplug” for date night – but this time we want you to plug in – for a Video Game Date Night!

Just picture it, you’re in sweats and a comfy t-shirt sitting on the floor next to the person you love most in this world. You’re both laughing and talking a little smack to one another as you race to the finish of your favorite video game. You’ve cracked open a couple of beers and there’s a bowl of popcorn in between the two of you.

While this may seem like a chill evening, the stakes are high. The “loser” will never live down any little mistake that costs them the game against their spouse.

Plus, the winner gets their choice of a prize – maybe a massage at the end of the night.

Are you among the 30% of couples who hasn’t been on a date in six or more months? If you follow us here at DateNight.ly, the answer should be no! Stop overthinking date night and take control – or in this case, the video game controller. Plan an evening when you can put the kids to bed a little early and unwind together over beer and video games.

Choose a Current Favorite for Video Game Date Night

If you already have a video game system, choose a couple of favorite games already in your collection. You can also go to your local game store to pick up a cheap used game or rent a newer game from Redbox. Make the evening more fair by choosing a game you’re either both familiar with or one that neither of you have played much.

…or Take it Back a Decade (or two!)

What’s even more fun is reliving the glory days! Remember when Mario Kart was all the rage?

If you can’t find a particular game for your game system, check for a computer download. While you and your spouse may not be able to play at the same time, it will still be fun to remember some of the classics.

Have a Healthy Competition

If you have a video game with the option for two players, play against one another and make a little bet on who will win. Not pleased with the first game results? Hone your skill and play all night, tallying up the scores from each game. You can also choose a game like racing and take turns to see who can get the highest score in a certain amount of time.

…or Tag Team Other Players

If you have the ability to play online against other players, tag team! Working together is one of the most important facets of marriage. Video games offer a great way to work together while having fun. You’ll have to communicate to accomplish a goal and may even learn from one another in a way that applies to your every day life together!

Video Game Date Night Tips:

• Don’t be too serious – let go and have fun.
• Win and lose graciously. Remember – this is date night with your spouse so while a little smack talk is sexy, too much is, well, too much.
• Have options. If one or both of you isn’t super into a game, switch to a new one.
• Have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand – we don’t need hangry gamers.

If you do a quick search online, you’ll see endless articles that question whether video games are ruining marriage. You may even think you’re too “grown up” to play video games. When you consider the camaraderie of playing together, video games are a great way to spend time as a couple. Just give it an hour – we bet you’ll enjoy it more than you expect.