As a nerd, there are two different things I appreciate: the new video games I get my grubby hands on and the lovely fiancee that allows me to enjoy them.

Video games are the sweet enjoyment that I inhale during any free time I have. But I understand the attention and the hard work that go into a relationship. It is not something I take lightly.

Any upstanding person knows their priorities. But in case you or someone you know doesn’t, this is how dealing with a gamer should be.

First and foremost is the famous start button. This magical button has existed since before the Nintendo Entertainment System’s time. With it, you can pause any game and allow yourself to pay attention to other people and whatever is outside your window.

But seriously, it’s important to understand that your game is not going anywhere. Though most people play multiplayer games that are unpausable, let’s face it; leaving one of your thousands of matches or asking your online friends to wait a moment is not the end of the world.

While I cannot speak for all the ladies (and dudes!), I know that the video games themselves are not the problem. It’s understanding why they get so much of the attention that lovers have to fight for sometimes.

If you have a comfortable relationship on your hands, you have to let your partner know what’s up.

Let them know your passion for all things digital so they don’t feel left out. Even if they still don’t understand completely, give them credit; they’re trying just for you.

And it doesn’t hurt to ask them to play with you. It’s so much fun playing with someone you love.

But please don’t tell them they suck! That’s a surefire way to make them actually hate both games and you in less than five seconds. Be patient while they learn the game.

Now to play devil’s advocate.

You people who are in with the oh so intolerable “hardcore” gamer, just know that for some of us geeks, games are more than the fun to be had.

There are games with a great story and presentation. The same focus given to good movies is needed for these types of games to follow and become invested.

If you and your beau establish when it’s game time versus cuddle time, I know we’ll all get along just fine.

Of course I’m still talking about the all-around good person who loves playing a variety of games. If the person you have in mind is the 40 hour a week call of bro shooter who hardly glances at you. It’s time for a real nerd. They’re the sweet ones. Trust me.