Feeling overwhelmed? Escape into a cosy video game. From planting turnips to chatting with villagers or solving magical puzzles, these games offer comfort.
For many, cosy games have emerged as the perfect escape, providing a soothing experience that allows players to unwind and destress. These games often feature charming visuals, gentle gameplay, and heartwarming narratives, making them an ideal choice for those looking to take a break from the chaos of everyday life.
Here are the top five cosy games rated by educational psychologist Dr. Kayleigh Sumner.
1. Stardew Valley — Cosy Score: 9.4/10
Put on your overalls and enjoy Stardew Valley, a top-rated farm-life RPG with a cosy score of 9.4/10. It holds a 98% SteamDB rating and a 9/10 IGN rating. Whether you’re growing crops or making friends, this game offers perfect relaxation.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Cosy Score: 9.2/10
Ranking second, Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a 9.2/10 rated island paradise experience. Released in 2020, this fifth instalment lets you build your dream life with friendly animal neighbours who remember your birthday.
3. A Short Hike — Cosy Score: 8.8/10
Enjoy a relaxing hike in A Short Hike, rated 8.8/10. Explore nature, chat with hikers, and unwind—all from your couch.
4. Lil Gator Game — Cosy Score: 8.2/10
What’s cuter than a tiny gator on a big adventure? Not much! Lil Gator Game scores an impressive 8.2/10 on the cosy scale. This delightful adventure features a SteamDB rating of 95%. Only two years old, this game has quickly waddled its way into the hearts of players everywhere. It’s fun, it’s heartwarming, and it’s packed with good vibes—what’s not to love?
5. Strange Horticulture — Cosy Score: 7.9/10
Stranger Horticulture is a mysterious puzzle game where you run a magical plant shop in a quaint town. It has a cosy score of 7.9/10 and a SteamDB rating of 92%. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys whimsy, especially with a cup of tea.
Why Cosy Games can be a Mental Health Win
Why are cosy games so darn good at making us feel better? Dr. Kayleigh Sumner, an educational psychologist, has some thoughts:
“Some video games have the potential to help people feel calmer, particularly puzzle-like games. This is because people can enter a state of ‘flow’ when playing a game. This means that players become fully absorbed in the game, which acts as a form of escapism and can help people feel like they have a sense of control. Entering a state of flow allows players to forget about the outside world, reducing stress.”
She also points out that the social aspects of gaming can boost those feel-good vibes:
“Games often include social aspects with multiplayers, which can increase a person’s sense of belonging. Feeling connected to others is a protective factor for handling stress. Games also help some people to feel a sense of achievement when completing tasks or levels, which can support people’s feelings of competence and success.”
Of course, moderation is key:
“Excessive gaming can lead to burnout. Balancing gaming in moderation alongside other coping strategies and activities is crucial for maintaining overall mental health and managing stress.”
So, whether you’re planting crops in Stardew Valley, befriending islanders in Animal Crossing, or tending to magical plants in Strange Horticulture, there’s a cosy game out there for you. Fire up your console, grab a blanket, and let the good vibes roll—just don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the real world too (it’s got snacks!).