In light of recent social distancing practices due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, the dating scene has become pretty nonexistent. With no way to meet up with dates to grab dinner, see a movie, or attend a concert together, what's a single person to do?

Enter Animal Crossing: New HorizonsThe adorable life simulator has been a beacon of light in these otherwise stressful times, and players across the world have been using the game as a way to give their lives structure, relax, and keep in touch with friends.

However, the game has also recently seen a surge in popularity in the virtual dating scene, as single people have utilized the online feature as a way to meet up with blind dates. Because the game encourages social interaction with easy-to-use chat features and "island transportation" methods, it makes sense that people would be drawn to the platform as a way to meet up with people during the time of quarantine.

But Animal Crossing's success isn't just on the ease of its platform. It's also regarding its popularity on dating apps like Tinder.

Polygon reported on the recent phenomenon, speaking to Twitch streamer Bekah (aka, "Curious Cleffa") on the matter: “I’ve seen more matches, and gotten more numbers from girls in the process."

Another streamer, Carlos (aka "glhfcarlos") shared screenshots of a Tinder interaction, where he and a potential match discussed fruits and turnip prices on each other's islands.

Via: Polygon

RELATED: Animal Crossing Is Giving Our Lives Structure During These Uncertain Times

Interacting blindly with Tinder matches has the potential to be an awkward and stressful experience, but basing a conversation with a stranger around things like Animal Crossing has opened the door of possibilities when it comes to chatting topics.

Some conversations have actually led to meaningful success stories, like in the case of Leigh, an artist who went on a blind Animal Crossing date. Afterward, her date sent her a present through the game's mailing feature. She reportedly loved the date so much, she later joked that she's only going on Animal Crossing first dates from now on. 

Streamer Lady Brittany has even capitalized on this trend, transforming her island into a virtual date paradise where she hosts couples' virtual dates. She's set up a variety of romantic scenes and locations on her island so lovebirds can visit and experience the (virtual) date of their dreams.

Honestly, an Animal Crossing blind date doesn't sound like a bad way to go about it. No awkward conversation starters, no pressure of meeting someone new face-to-face, no worry about leaving your house in the middle of a pandemic...

And, if all else fails, you'll always get something - be it fruit, Nook Miles, unique items, etc. - out of visiting someone else's island!

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available now, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch.

Source: Polygon

NEXT: Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Tips for Hosting a Virtual Date