Complete the text with the missing sentences A–F. There is one sentence you do not need. The game of love
With the rise of social networking sites and online communication of all kinds, the idea that we can meet and
interact with people online is becoming more and more acceptable. Across the globe, people can share hobbies
and interests – or even meet that ‘special someone’. 1 If you are careful and follow a few sensible rules,
it’s a relatively safe way to meet a romantic partner. And, these days, more and more people are taking virtual
dating a step further.
Online gaming has become very popular in recent years. Thousands of people spend hours each day having
adventures in virtual fantasy worlds. Missions or quests within the game often require characters to work
together to solve problems and progress through the game’s levels. 2 Using this technology, friendships
can sometimes form between players through their virtual characters or ‘avatars’.
Online games are now so sophisticated that players are not restricted to a single path and game progression as
they were in earlier games. Since the development of ‘go anywhere’ gameplay, characters can wander around
and explore the fantasy landscape however they like. Or they can just sit together next to a virtual waterfall
and chat. And they do! Friends who meet up to kill a dragon may sit down later to talk about their lives and
dreams. 3
But is it really possible to form an accurate impression of a person through the way he or she behaves in an
online game? 4 And they may create avatars who have characteristics they don’t have in real life.
However, psychologists say that most gamers create avatars that are surprisingly true to themselves. Of course,
they may not really be a 6-foot warrior, but there is a stronger connection to reality than people might expect.
And their interactions with others are sometimes more frank and honest than they might be if they were on a
date in the real world.
5
Gamers, online daters and users of social networks have to be cautious. In the twenty-first century we
are all learning what it means to be connected to the rest of the world – and we need to be very careful when
we choose how connected we want to be. However, growing numbers of people are choosing to meet, chat,
date – and even get married in the virtual world!
A In a virtual world, people do amazing things in exciting situations.
B Of course, meeting strangers can be dangerous.
C This has prompted many players to say that you can learn as much about a person through
gaming as you can in real life.
D Millions of people have now found love on internet dating sites.
E Most games have a chat function, or even voice communication software.
F Make sure to tell your friends what you are doing, or even take one of them along with you.

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