Long-distance relationships are difficult—no sugarcoating it. But if anything can make the distance seem a little smaller, it’s gaming. No matter the cities, countries, or continents between you, the right co-op game can turn a lonely night into a shared experience. Talking from experience, one of the most significant experiences in a long-distance relationship can be moments shared playing together to defeat a boss, solve a puzzle, or just laugh through a crazy mission.
What Makes a Great Long-Distance Co-op Game?
Not all games are equal when played over a distance. The most successful ones are centered on teamwork, feature compelling narratives, and—here’s being honest—don’t have to be so infuriating that you find yourself arguing over a respawn. Games with replay are a major bonus, and the aim is always the same: build shared moments that are real, even when you’re miles apart.
Here are some of the best choices that not only offer good gameplay but also manage to keep the flame burning, one virtual quest at a time.
It Takes Two
This game is nearly designed for couples. Lovely looking and full of brilliant mechanics, It Takes Two casts you as a soon-to-be-divorced couple—miniaturized to doll dimensions and pitched into a fantastical world in which cooperation is the only option. Each has special powers, so you’ll require genuine co-operation to navigate the game’s constantly shifting levels. It’s touching, humorous, and utterly absurd. Just be warned: a couple of scenes may surprise you with how bizarre they become (yes, I’m looking at you, Cutie the Elephant).
Portal 2
A classic for good reason. The co-op campaign in Portal 2 sets you and your companion down as two testing robots exploring a mind-warping test lab. The challenges are simple or brain-shattering, depending on what you need, and it takes communication and trust to crack them. It’s laid-back, high-payoff play, with incisive writing and a deadpan sense of humor that never grows stale. Easing through a challenging level together is immensely rewarding, and you’ll be more in harmony than ever.
Minecraft
Don’t dismiss Minecraft. Much more than a children’s construction game, it’s a virtual sandbox where you and your partner can build, survive, and explore as a team. Construct your dreamhouse, embark on epic adventures, or simply get your groove on while collecting resources together. What makes Minecraft so pretty is that it allows you to witness how your partner thinks and creates—it’s like hanging out in person as close as an online game can get. And with private servers and Realms, it’s simple to create a world just for the two of you.
Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga
For something lighthearted, goofy, and plain ridiculous, Lego Star Wars is a hoot. With simple controls, goofy comedy, and a recognizable Star Wars tale, it’s perfect for gamers of any skill level, especially if your significant other is just getting into gaming. You’ll blast your way through levels, snatch coins, and likely laugh more than you think you will. It’s the type of game that doesn’t need a lot of planning—just grab the controller and play.
Borderlands 2
If you desire something a bit more action-packed but not overly intimidating, Borderlands 2 is a perfect option. The comic book-style graphics and excessive humor make everything entertaining, while the gameplay remains exciting for both new and veteran OPS games. Play together to fight against foes, gather loot, and progress through your characters—it’s an anarchic but fulfilling experience that makes each win feel like a communal victory.
Honorable Mentions for Something Different
Looking for something a little offbeat? There’s a game for that, too.
- Operation Tango – One of you’s a hacker, the other’s a field agent. You’ll need top-tier communication to pull off your missions.
- Biped – Hilarious, physics-based puzzle solving with two robot characters who can’t walk in straight lines.
- Tick Tock: A Tale for Two – A brief but eerie mystery that asks each player to figure out puzzles based on clues only the other can perceive.
- Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes – A frantic, communication-intensive game in which one player disarms a bomb and the other reads the manual (without being able to see the screen). It’s an actual test of patience and cooperation.
Tips for Smoother Virtual Game Nights
A bit of tech configuration will go a long way. Employ two pairs of headphones, one for the game, one for your call. In this way, you will be able to communicate freely without interruption from game audio. Tools like Discord, Zoom, or a communal Netflix Party experience will also make it feel close even when you are far apart.
Long-distance relationships aren’t so simple, but games can make the miles seem shorter. Whether you’re constructing a fortress, untangling a puzzling puzzle, or simply chuckling at Lego mischief, these co-played moments online create an offline connection. So choose a game, plug in your headset, and hit play—your next virtual date night is calling.