Gaming offers more than just entertainment. Millions have made friends through online gaming, and this won’t change anytime soon.
Whether you're into video games, tabletop adventures, poker or another form of gaming, there are numerous avenues to meet like-minded individuals. You just have to take the first step and log in!
In this article, you’ll discover how popular games can open the door to a wider, richer social circle. Let’s go.
Table of contents
1. Join online gaming communities
Playing the game alone isn't enough. Online gaming transcends geographical boundaries, allowing players to connect globally.
Platforms like Discord have become central hubs for gamers. Often themed around specific games or interests, these servers facilitate interactions through text and voice channels. Many host events, tournaments and casual game nights, fostering a sense of community among members.
If you're unsure where to begin, sites like Disboard.org can help you search for active Discord servers by game or interest.
Similarly, Reddit has threads where people recommend or promote servers and online communities. Try looking for servers with active moderation and clear community rules, which tend to foster friendlier and more welcoming environments.
For those interested in gambling, poker can provide a social avenue to meet others. Many UK friendly online poker sites feature chat functions and forums where players can discuss strategies and share experiences.
Participating in online poker nights or tournaments can also introduce you to a community of enthusiasts. Take a leap and sign up!
2. Participate in events and tournaments
Attending gaming events, both online and offline, can be a fun way to meet fellow enthusiasts, as those who join these are more interested than casual players.
In particular, online tournaments offer competitive yet friendly environments where players can bond over shared experiences.
Why not take the fun into the real-life realm?
Where available, local gaming conventions and meetups can also provide face-to-face interactions with like-minded game enthusiasts. These events often feature workshops, panel discussions and open gaming zones, offering great opportunities to connect with others who share your passion.
In the UK, the UK Games Expo is a top spot to meet others and even explore new hobby games.
3. Visit local gaming venues
Gaming cafés and lounges are booming as people seek real-world connection through board games.
Spaces like The Dice Box and the Boardroom Gaming Cafe provide environments where visitors can play an array of games while enjoying food and drinks. Plus, these venues often host themed nights and tournaments, creating a communal atmosphere conducive to making new friends.
Similarly, you might find that a local game store organises events, from casual game nights to competitive tournaments. It’s always worth a look!
4. Join tabletop role-playing games
Skip the single-player games!
Engaging in cooperative games can naturally lead to friendships. Titles that require teamwork encourage communication and collaboration, laying the foundation for lasting connections.
Tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons offer immersive experiences that naturally foster a social aspect. Collaborating on adventures, strategising, and storytelling require communication and trust among players.
Many online and offline communities host regular RPG sessions open to newcomers and more seasoned players. So, don’t worry if you don’t have much experience.
5. Leverage social media and forums
Social media is a powerful tool for finding gaming friends, especially if you're not sure where to start locally.
Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and dedicated gaming forums allow users to share their interests and experiences with others worldwide. These platforms often include listings for upcoming events, group gaming sessions, and even local meetups.
👍 Search for communities tied to your favourite games or gaming styles to get started.
For example, the subreddit r/Boardgames is a great resource for finding fellow board game fans. Posting a simple introduction or question can often spark a helpful conversation and lead to new connections.
Pro Tip: Always be polite and don’t spam others if they don’t reply.
6. Attend workshops and panels
Gaming conventions and industry events often feature workshops and panels focusing on game design, strategy, storytelling and community-building.
These sessions are both eye-opening and social, perfect for meeting like-minded people and sparking conversations long after the event.
📍 Look for events that cater to your area of interest. The possibilities are endless, whether that's esports, poker tournaments, indie game development, or fantasy RPGs.
Need some inspiration? Events like EGX London (Eurogamer Expo) or UK Games Expo attract thousands of attendees and are excellent opportunities to expand your network.
7. Volunteer or work in gaming events
The best way to connect in gaming? Jump in behind the scenes.
Volunteering at gaming conventions or local tournaments gives you a free pass to the event and connects you with other volunteers and organisers passionate about gaming. You’ll often work in teams, making it easy to get talking and find common ground.
Even working part-time at a game shop or café or as a moderator for an online community can bring you closer to others who share your love for games.
These experiences will not only help build your social network but could also lead to long-term friendships or job opportunities in the industry.
8. Join or start a gaming club
Lastly, joining a gaming club is another excellent way to meet people and to ensure regular connections.
These clubs often meet weekly or monthly, in-person or online, providing a relaxed setting for people to play games together and form friendships over time.
You can usually find clubs for everything from console gaming to tabletop RPGs, wargaming or poker. Websites like Meetup.com can list local gaming events, libraries, or community centres, and sometimes host them.
Conclusion
Making new gaming friends is entirely achievable with the right approach—and this blog is your sign to take the plunge.
Whether through a poker night, an RPG session or a friendly tournament at a local café, the world of gaming offers plenty of opportunities to connect with others.
