Can online dating be a form of entertainment? For millions of people swiping, chatting and scrolling through profiles each day, the answer is increasingly — yes. While dating apps were designed to help people find romantic connections, in 2025 they’ve evolved into something else entirely for many users: a source of casual amusement, boredom-busting, and digital thrill-seeking.
But what happens when finding love turns into a game? Let’s break down why online dating has become a form of entertainment for some — and what it means for the future of relationships.
From courtship to content: The evolution of dating apps
When Tinder launched in 2012, it introduced the swipe — a quick yes or no decision based on a photo and a few lines of text. Since then, apps like Bumble, Hinge, and Grindr have added features like filters, videos, voice notes, and compatibility prompts. But the basic mechanic remains the same: it’s fast, visual, and addictive.
In fact, many users report logging into apps not to date, but to pass time — the same way you’d open Instagram or scroll TikTok.
Why online dating has become entertainment
1. It offers instant gratification
Swiping gives you fast feedback — someone liked you! Someone matched! A dopamine hit happens, even if you never message each other. This mirrors the psychology of slot machines and other addictive tech.
2. It cures boredom
Waiting in line? Alone in bed? Instead of opening a book or meditating, many people swipe through profiles — not to meet, but to be distracted.
3. It feeds curiosity
“Who’s out there?” “Would someone like me?” “What kind of people live in my city?” Sometimes we’re not looking for a date — we’re browsing out of sheer curiosity.
4. It boosts ego — temporarily
Getting likes, messages, and compliments can provide a quick confidence boost. For some, that alone becomes the reward, even if no relationship ever forms.
5. It mimics gaming behaviour
Many apps use design elements pulled from gaming: achievements, streaks, profile badges, super likes. It turns dating into a gamified experience where users “play” more than they date.
Does using dating apps for fun mean you’re doing it wrong?
Not necessarily. The way people engage with platforms evolves. Just like YouTube isn’t only for watching educational videos, dating apps aren’t only for finding long-term partners anymore.
That said, problems arise when:
- You lead people on while treating the app like a joke
- You feel empty or anxious after using it
- You’re addicted to swiping and can’t stop
Signs you’re using dating apps more for entertainment than connection
- You open the app every time you’re bored — even if you don’t plan to message
- You swipe but rarely chat
- You chat but never actually meet up
- You feel more excited by the swipe than by the actual people
- You keep redownloading the app, even after deleting it “for good”
What the data says
- According to a 2024 Pew Research study, 38% of dating app users report using the app mainly “for fun or passing time.”
- A Hinge internal survey showed that 51% of its users aged 18–25 log in “without the intention of meeting someone that day.”
- Multiple Reddit forums and TikTok users refer to dating apps as “games” and “dopamine loops.”
Real examples: When online dating becomes entertainment
- Sneha, 25, says: “I go on Bumble when I’m bored at work. I swipe for fun, like it’s Candy Crush. I haven’t gone on an actual date in months.”
- Tyler, 29: “I like the matches. It makes me feel good. But I delete the app every two weeks when I realise I’m not actually dating anyone.”
- Jasmine, 32: “Sometimes I swipe just to see my ex is still active. It’s toxic, I know. But it’s addictive.”
Mid-article support from ichhori.com:
Is it bad to treat online dating like entertainment?
It depends. If you’re transparent, emotionally aware, and not using others as emotional toys, it’s fine. But if you're stringing people along, lying, or spiralling into dating app addiction — it may be time to reflect.
How to reset your dating mindset (if you want real connection)
- Be intentional — only open the app when you’re in a social mood
- Set a time limit — 20 minutes a day max
- Unmatch with people you don’t plan to talk to
- Only swipe on people you’d actually date
- Take breaks when the app feels draining
How to balance fun with purpose
Online dating can be enjoyable. But like anything entertaining — movies, games, Instagram — balance is key. Try to ask yourself:
- Am I here for connection or escape?
- How do I feel after using this?
- Do my actions reflect what I really want?