In a heartwarming story that connects the virtual and real worlds, a Malaysian couple recently tied the knot after first meeting in the popular online game, MapleStory, back in 2008.

The bride, 28-year-old Jolyn from Sarawak, shared the joyful news in the Facebook group Subtle Asian Traits, winning the hearts of fellow gamers who also grew up playing the game.

Jolyn reminisced about her first encounter with her now-husband, 30-year-old Kennedy from Sabah.

"I began playing MapleStory in 2008 when the Fornax world was just launched. As a newbie, I randomly asked a player on a Perion hunting map about job advancements and how to obtain a black Fornax bandana, which was a level 50 event reward. Little did I know, that player would become my husband!" Jolyn shared, full of nostalgia.

Although they first met online 16 years ago, it wasn’t until December 2019 that they began meeting and dating in person. The couple officially married on 10 September this year.

"We call it destiny," Jolyn said as she reflected on their journey. "We never imagined we’d become a couple since we come from different states, different races, and different religions. But fate brought us together, and now we’re officially husband and wife!" she added. Jolyn is a Chinese Buddhist, while Kennedy is a Kadazan Christian.

With a playful tone, Jolyn mentioned that although they never got married in the game, she’d love for MapleStory to sponsor their love story someday. "Hint, hint. But thank you, MapleStory!" she said.

The comments section was flooded with well-wishes as netizens congratulated the couple on their unique love story.