A love story that began in the virtual world has now blossomed into real life, as a Malaysian couple who first met on the popular online game MapleStory more than 16 years ago have officially tied the knot.
The bride, Jolyn, 28, from Sarawak, and her husband Kennedy, 30, from Sabah, first crossed paths in 2008 when both were active in the massively popular multiplayer game. Jolyn shared their story in the Subtle Asian Traits Facebook group, where it quickly captured the hearts of thousands who grew up playing the same game.
She recalled how, as a beginner back then, she had approached a stranger in the game to ask about job advancement and a limited edition Fornax bandana. That player turned out to be Kennedy — the man who would later become her husband.
From Gaming Buddies to Husband and Wife
Despite meeting virtually in their teenage years, the two did not actually meet in person until December 2019. By then, their online friendship had evolved into something deeper, and they decided to start dating.
On 10 September this year, after years of bonding both in-game and in real life, the couple finally exchanged vows. Jolyn shared with the media that their relationship often surprised people, given their differences in race, religion, and home states.
“I never thought we would become a couple, but fate brought us together,” she said. Jolyn is Chinese Buddhist, while Kennedy is Kadazan Christian — a union they both describe as proof that love can transcend cultural and religious barriers.
Online Love Stories Strike a Chord
Adding a touch of humour, Jolyn revealed that although they spent years together in MapleStory, they never actually held a wedding ceremony in-game. She cheekily suggested that it would be amazing if the developers sponsored their love story, saying, “Hint hint. Thank you so much, MapleStory!”
Their story has since gone viral, with many netizens praising the couple’s perseverance and calling it one of the most wholesome internet love stories to date. Some even reminisced about their own MapleStory days, recalling friendships and crushes formed through the game.
For Singaporeans who grew up playing MapleStory at LAN shops and on home PCs, this tale is both nostalgic and inspiring — a reminder that sometimes, even a casual chat with a stranger in a game can change your life forever.