Let’s face it, the long distance relationship can be a struggle at times. Being apart has its limitations. One issue with spending time together while long-distance, is the biggest question, “What should we do?”  If you’re sick of Netflix, and want to chill in another way, these are 5 easy games that won’t hurt your wallet, and require the very basics of hardware.  

    Maybe you’ve dabbled into games, maybe you own the latest hardware, or maybe the only game you know is Candy Crush.  No matter where you are as a gamer, there is something here for everyone that can help you stay connected. 

These are a couple of games that should help pass the time, and create a bond that will help bring much needed activity into these moments apart.  While there are thousands of multiplayer games, many require gaming consoles, robust PC’s, or lacking in their depth. Sure we can play cards and Words with friends, but if you want something more lasting, these 5 games should be what you’re looking for.

#5 Minecraft.  

Don’t let the graphics and notion that mostly children play this dissuade you. Minecraft can be extremely entertaining and lovably frustrating. If your dream is building a house essential out of giant blocks, then look no further. Minecraft isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve ever dabbled before, might not be a terrible idea to explore a randomly generated world with your loved one. The fact that you can design your own home and world, opens the creative and artistic mind of you both. The mechanics and world helps us see what’s most important, their style, their tastes and how they’ll react when spiders crawl into the house.  Playing online with a PC can be a bit troublesome, but any console version will be much easier to dive into.  Don’t be too upset if the other isn’t into Minecraft, besides, there are other options.

Essentially a 2D Minecraft, but much easier to get started and a bit difficult to master. The world and environment is a bit more appealing, offering a simpler playthrough than it’s 3D influence. The mechanics are easy enough, just dig and find resources, build a home, then dig deeper. There’s enough there isn’t a lot of in game help, and it helps to look online for the answers to many questions.  The game encourages working together, achieving goals, and pushing the limits of your imagination. There’s plenty to do, plenty of treasure to discover and caves to explore. Terraria does a good job at balancing creativity and a world that encourages you to get lost in , literally and figuratively .

#3 Final Fantasy XIV

  The only MMO on the list for good reason. Massive multiplayer games tend to present us too many options, and let’s not forget, the entire point of the list is a game you can play together. There’s literally thousands of games we can play ourselves, but the goal here is to play with your significant other. Even the thought of an MMO might turn off most, but this one is a different breed.  It’s certainty the most graphically demanding on the list, but if your computer can handle it, it’s worth a try.

   Final Fantasy requires a bit of a mental investment, and a bit of research beforehand is recommended, yet the pay off is well worth it. The 14th installment of Final Fantasy is wide, deep and offers an overwhelming variety of options.  Wether it’s slayer monsters, crafting items, engaging in a story, or building your home, this game is one of the better options for couples looking to burn away hours. Don’t forget this is free to play for quite a long while (Level 60), more than enough to get started and see if it’s to your liking.  Unlike most MMO’s, Final Fantasy XIV has a wonderful community, full of relaxed players, and those taking it a bit more serious.  There are some limitations with the free to play version, but it’s still worth a shot.

#2  Don’t Starve Together 

For those seeking more a challenge, this one is right for you. Don’t Starve Together throws you into a land, ripped from Tim Burton’s nightmares, where you will surely die, over and over again. You’ll soon learn the saying “till death do us part” seems to be the running theme in this cute yet dark adventure. Wether succumbing to insanity, spider attacks, or as the name implies, starving to death, you will surely die together many times. Isn’t that romantic? This game requires communication, patients, teamwork, and time will fly by. If the thought of building homes was off-putting, Don’t Starve Together is a better fit.  With lots of customization and enough close calls to get your heart beating, Don’t Starve Together is a great addition to pass the time, and see how your loved one responds when threatened with survival.

#1 Stardew Valley.  

Adorable, addicting and the most fun you’ll ever have farming. Planting pixelated crops shouldn’t be so much fun, but Stardew Valley brings a charm and lasting appeal to one life’s more mundane and monotonous tasks. There’s a surprising amount of depth, whether you’re designing your farm, exploring dark mines, or involve yourself in the gossip of the local town. It has a little something from everyone, even if you’re new to gaming or a seasoned vet.  Stardew is enjoyable enough by yourself, but with the co-op option, it’s a must have. You’ll share you’re own farm, and even your own home, making the long distance feel a little closer.   Adding that it has options for marrying your team mate, Stardew can create some very late nights.

    Available on all platforms, but avoid IOS and android since there’s no multiplayer function. Be sure you both have the same console, as crossplay isn’t an option.

Have a game you love to play with your partner?  Share your favourites in the comments.