If you're an introvert, most "make friends online" advice is exhausting. You do not want loud Discords, forced voice chat, or awkward LFG small talk.
You want a few normal teammates you can play with consistently.
Here's the simple way to do that.
1) Stop aiming for "friends." Aim for repeat sessions.
Friendship usually comes after you play with the same people a few times. Your real goal is a small group you can reliably queue with.
2) Fix two variables: one game + one weekly window
Pick:
- one game you actually want to play - one recurring time you can realistically show up
Example: "ARC Raiders, Tues 9-11pm" works better than "down whenever."
3) Make it introvert-friendly on purpose
If voice chat is stressful, build around that:
- mic optional - text chat ok - quiet comms (callouts only) - short sessions (60-90 minutes)
A lot of adults prefer this too.
4) Filter for vibe, not just skill
Most bad experiences are expectation mismatches. Filter for:
- ultra chill vs semi-tryhard - beginner-friendly vs experienced - mic optional vs required - no rage, no blaming
This protects your limited time.
5) Keep the first session low pressure
Make it easy to say yes:
- "one run tonight" - "mic optional" - "no pressure if you dip early"
Small commitments build comfort.
6) Add one basic reliability rule
This prevents the worst introvert scenario: logging in and waiting alone.
- quick heads-up if you can't make it - still play if one person can't
Where PodUp fits
PodUp is built for this exact problem. It matches busy adults and introverts into small recurring pods based on:
- schedule overlap - game - vibe preferences (including mic optional, chill, no rage)
You do not need to be "more social." You need a system that finds the right people and makes it easy to play again next week.