The Best Dating Games

For Singles and Couples

• While singles may seem most likely to participate in a dating game, online simulation games have opened up a viable option for committed couples. Online dating games can help introduce a feeling of novelty and entertainment into an already established relationship. Simulation dating games aren't necessarily geared toward finding a potential relationship. Some online dating sites provide the chance to gain an innovative perspective on how the actual process of dating and love work.

Features

• Most dating simulation games give players the opportunity to roleplay. Similar to other virtual simulations, online dating games allow users to create their own characters. The character can then choose what activities to participate in, including working out at a virtual gym, virtual shopping and virtual interaction with other characters. Virtual interaction can provide an enhanced option to instant messaging and e-mail. As with any virtual platform, the ability to become "someone else" is both tempting and attainable.

Sites

• There are several websites that are exclusively dedicated to providing simulated dating games. Some of those sites come with high recommendations, such as Love Games 1 and Flash Ninja Clan. Social networking sites, such as Facebook, feature dating game applications. One such application is Social Connect, which allows anyone with a Facebook account to directly access its platform without having to create a separate online account. Social Connect gives users the ability to search for other singles based on common interests, rate other users' physical appearances, send "charm" invitations to express an interest, and ask personal questions.

Benefits

• Simulated dating games can provide an almost risk-free method in which to explore the rituals of mating. In today's fast-paced society, online simulation can create a less stressful avenue to experiment with meeting other people before making the decision to invest further time and effort. Those who are unsure of how to proceed in meeting other singles might find a virtual playground to be less overwhelming. Online dating games create another meeting venue that can aid in the development of connections with like-minded individuals. It provides a less pressured setting that allows users to instantly see the results of their interactions without resulting in a face-to-face commitment or potential embarrassment.