Consoles over coffee dates: Most Brits would rather meet a romantic partner via online gaming than a dating app according to research by Virgin Media

• The majority of Brits (51%) would prefer to meet a romantic partner through online gaming than via a dating app, according to new research by Virgin Media
• The survey findings suggest the nation is tiring of swiping on dating apps (70% ‘dislike’ them) and are open to alternative ways of meeting their other half
• Reasons Brits are looking to find love through gaming include: gaming providing daters with a common interest (88%), the ease of getting to know someone over a longer period (82%), you can meet someone from the comfort of our own home (78%)
• Gamers looking for a FREE date idea this Valentine’s Day can visit Virgin Media Gamepad, located at The O2 arena, to enjoy the ultimate gaming tech, consoles and games and a date night to remember

New research from Virgin Media has revealed that more than half of Brits (51%) would prefer to meet a romantic partner through online gaming than via a dating app. Any potential power couples can visit Virgin Media Gamepad in London for a FREE date to remember this Valentine’s Day (or beyond).

Those looking for love in 2025 would prefer to grab a controller over a coffee, as it’s revealed one in five have met their partner or know of someone else who has found a long-term relationship through online gaming. Some of the reasons Brits would prefer to meet a romantic prospect via gaming include:

• 88% – ‘Gaming gives us something in common’
• 82% – ‘You can get to know someone over a longer period of time’
• 78% – ‘It can be done from the comfort of your home’
• 75% – ‘Accessible for people with busy schedules’
• 68% – ‘Cost effective compared to going on dates’

Not only is gaming seen as a good way to find a new partner, the research also suggests that couples who game together may well stay together – with 57% of respondents saying it helps to maintain a healthy relationship.

So, for those looking to ‘level up’ their dating life, Virgin Media has a variety of broadband packages with ultrafast speeds and 99.89% network reliability, ideal for gamers. More information on Virgin Media’s latest deals can be found HERE.

Those looking for a unique date night can head to The O2 arena in London to visit Virgin Media Gamepad – the UK’s ultimate free gaming destination – where they can raid, race, battle and play together on 16 of the latest consoles and hundreds of games, available to everybody.

Virgin Media broadband or O2 mobile customers can also unlock a series of special treats via Priority and book exclusive private areas for local multiplayer gaming, live-streaming on state-of-the-art technology and so much more.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Total sample: 1,020 Members of the UK Public. Sample is representative by gender, age and NUTS 1 region, against the most recent ONS data. Fieldwork between 23.01.25 – 26.01.25.

ABOUT VIRGIN MEDIA GAMEPAD

Virgin Media Gamepad is open 7 days a week, 2pm-7pm, and completely free to visit