i need advice

I think that inviting his whole family would definitely be the best way to go with it. It would (hopefully) eliminate any worries his parents might have about you trying to isolate him for whatever reason. Good luck!

Could you Skype/video call him and his parents together and explain to them how much his friendship has meant to you over the years and how you would all like to meet IRL and have him attend your wedding? Sometimes parents need a face with the name and reassurance that you aren't trying to pull anything weird. Gaming is a new dynamic that older generations don't understand that you can meet people all around the world and form a relationship without meeting face to face.

I also think inviting his whole family sounds better then

View Quoted Comment Yes, agreed. I plan on inviting my gaming friends too! Luckily, we are all in our thirties though lol. We’re all stoked to finally have a reason to meet after all these years. I think a phone or Skype call could help too. Talk to your friend and see what they think is the best approach.

View Quoted Comment I have a lot of long-distance internet friends I’m inviting as well (mostly met through Tumblr in high school), but like you, we’re all in our mid-20s to 30s so parents aren’t a hurdle. I agree that a Skype call could really help!

Update! *** his parents are on board with him coming along. They are just asking for a letting with all the details and our personal information which is completely understandable. Thank you everyone for your help and support in this matter! ❤️