Man proposed with in-game letter on 'Animal Crossing', recreates moment 15 years later

Love has a way of turning ordinary moments into something extraordinary. Whether it is a heartfelt gesture or a shared hobby, small acts often become the foundation for memories that last a lifetime. For one couple, a creative proposal in 2005 using a beloved video game became the start of a story that would span years. Shared on Reddit by u/ninxaan, this story is about a man who proposed to his girlfriend, Sara, in 2005 in a way that reflected their shared love for the Nintendo game "Animal Crossing." Instead of a traditional proposal, he sent her an in-game letter asking her to marry him.

The message in the game read, "To Sara, I love you, Sara Dane Buck. Will you marry me? From Nadam." The moment was captured in a photo showing the couple smiling together in front of the TV, holding hands as they celebrated this unique and heartfelt gesture. The proposal was met with joy, and the two began their life together. Over the years, "Animal Crossing" became a sentimental symbol of their relationship.

When "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" was released in 2020, it provided the perfect opportunity for the couple to revisit the game that meant so much to them. This time, however, they were not playing alone. As parents to three children, they introduced the game to their kids, creating a full-circle moment for the family. Another photo, taken 15 years after the proposal, shows the family standing together in front of the TV, smiling and ready to play. The screen behind them displays the familiar, colorful world of "Animal Crossing."

The story quickly resonated with fans of the game and those who appreciated how simple moments can carry deep meaning. u/Zexapher said, "Hair and dress styles from 20 years ago getting updated. Better room lighting. Better camera. Awkward youths becoming put together adults with a happy family. Good life and good living." u/StillSwaying commented about their undeniable glow-up, "They look like work out now too. They've both got that healthy athletic glow about them. Moving around and going outdoors once in a while will do that! What a cute story, though! I miss those early internet days when our biggest problem was trying to keep our kids from spending too much time on Neopets."

u/dbtl87 added, "I didn't even know 'Animal Crossing' existed back then? I assumed it was a new game when it came out on the switch. I don't play video games at all, clearly. How cute is this." "I can really see that these two really love each other as you can tell that they both glow up 20 years later as they look better now than they were young, which goes to show when you pick the right partner who lifts you up and reduces your stress that you get better with ages. I wish that for everyone," u/TMYLee said. "The family that plays together stays together! This is sweet," u/Candiedstars commented.