fast and angry? No, slow and soothing

The end of summer is a time to look forward to everything fall brings. From pumpkin spice lattes to decorating your home for Halloween and everything in between.

A new phenomenon in gaming has also become part of the fall ritual, and its goal is simple: to feel as comfortable as possible and enjoy a game that will only soothe you. This means no adrenaline, and no fear of jumping. Just good old fashioned fun and feel good.

Relaxing games have become one of the most preferred forms of relaxation, and with the popularity of games like Animal crossing And Stardew ValleyIt has quickly developed into its own genre.

What is this?

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, while people were staying home to stay safe from the virus, many turned to gaming to ease the isolation experience.

Popular Nintendo games Animal Crossing: New Horizons It was released at just the right moment, and those who played it regularly talked about how calming and relaxing it was.

The goal of the game is to clean up an island, grow crops, and collect everything from cool clothes for your character to famous paintings for your own museum.

Through this experience, players begin to focus on a more relaxing time to play, choosing to play games that are not stressful or anxiety-inducing, but are soothing.

Videos shared on the popular social media app TikTok eventually gave rise to a movement that uses gaming as a form of self-care.

Relaxing gaming isn’t just about choosing the game, it’s about enhancing your experience with the right atmosphere. This can include anything from lighting your room differently to sitting in a cozy space surrounded by pillows and plush toys with a nice scented candle lit nearby.

The best relaxing games

We have already mentioned it Animal crossing Which has become the totem pole for comfortable gaming experience. The game still has a lot to offer those trying it for the first time, but experienced players have since found alternatives that have become favorites among laid-back players.

Stardew Valley

It was first released in 2016, Stardew Valley It has become more popular in the last couple of years after players noticed its similarity to animal crossing, While also being different enough to offer an alternative experience.

The game’s storytelling is also diverse and eclectic, leading players into surreal conversations with side characters that can be unforgettable.

The main goal is to grow a farm and raise a family. Your main character is given tasks that involve growing crops to sell in the village.

The game’s aesthetic is its biggest draw, with whimsical music to set the mood.

Stardew Valley It can be played on multiple consoles including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PC.

Faye farm

Released only this month Faye farm It has already become a huge hit with relaxed gamers.

At first the game seems like… Animal crossing clone but after more playing, Faye farm It offers a more magical and mystical experience.

The usual quests are here, and players will still need to grow their crops, but there’s a lot more to the world Faye farm He has to show.

Players are encouraged to explore the world and search for items that will help them craft unique tools.

Faye farm It has scored very well among reviewers and is expected to become a staple in the cozy gaming genre.

The game is playable on Nintendo Switch as well as on PC.

Become a comfortable gamer

To learn more, I asked the person who introduced me to the cozy toys — my wife — what she thought of the experience.

Here’s what she had to say: “I’m someone who has enjoyed playing high-stakes action-adventure games my whole life and will probably never stop. But when COVID-19 hit in early 2020, gaming took off.” Animal Crossing: New Horizons It provided me with a new kind of pleasure.

“The slow pace, gentle characters, soothing music, and meditative nature of the daily tasks on the island were a much-needed distraction from the rapidly changing world.

“Since then, relaxing games have become the perfect solution to decompress after a long week, especially when you’re feeling exhausted and need a mental break. Relaxing with a cup of tea, a warm blanket, low-stakes farming, puzzle solving, or a nature exploration game has become part of your routine. My self care today.”

Updated: September 29, 2023 at 6:02 p.m