If you’re dealing with stress, video games can be a great way to relax. There are a lot of benefits to gaming. They can help with pain relief, anxiety, depression, decision-making skills, and even your vision! Lately, I’ve been loving cozy games that help me to relax after a long day. “Cozy” can mean different things to everyone, but the gameplay tends to be more casual, fun, and stress-free.
I picked up gaming early this year. I loved gaming as a kid but stopped once I became a teen and then entered college. As I got older, I didn’t really know what games I would enjoy and honestly thought that there wasn’t much variety to choose from.
That was until I got YouTube and TikTok recommendations about cozy games. There’s a whole world of cozy games – puzzle games, farming simulators, adventure, mystery, fantasy, and much more. It’s been so beneficial for my mental health!
If you’re interested in learning more, I’d highly recommend checking out creators like Cozy K, Chonnie, and Monica Kim.
Here are 23 Cozy Games to play when you want to relax. Feel free to grab a soothing cup of chamomile or your favorite snack. Get ready to game! 🍵
What Makes a Game “Cozy”?
“Cozy games” is another term for casual gaming. This genre of of gaming is usually stress-free, approachable, peaceful, comforting, and warm. Video games that are cozy should make you feel happy and provide a sense of safety. Really any game can be cozy depending on your interests.
Some people argue that cozy games don’t include combat, but I disagree with that idea. There are popular cozy games that contain combat – I’ve even included them on this list! It is true though that cozy games tend to be on the calmer side and allow you to explore the world at your own pace.
When you’re gaming, ask yourself:
- Does this game comfort me?
- Does this game provide a world that I feel safe in?
- Do I feel my stress levels go down when I play this game?
- Am I happy playing this game?
- Can I go at my own pace? Am I allowed to explore?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I’d say you’re playing a cozy game!
23 Cozy Games To Play for Stress-Relief
1. Stardew Valley
When I think of cozy games, Stardew Valley is the first one that comes to mind!
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game. When you start the game, you learn that you’ve inherited a farm plot in Pelican Town from your grandfather who passed away. You’ve been working for Joja Company at a job you hate. This is your opportunity to start a brand new life!
There is so much to love about Stardew Valley. The possibilities are endless – you can design your farm, raise animals, fish, mine, build relationships with the villagers, and so much more!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play –
- Get the Stardew Valley Nintendo Switch Digital Code Here!
- Download Stardew Valley on Steam!
- Visit their official site for more options.
2. A Short Hike
Spoiler Alert: This game has a very special place in my heart.
Your name is Claire and you’re an adorable bird visiting your Aunt May. Aunt May is a ranger at Hawk Peak Provincial Park. You’re waiting for an important call from someone, but can’t get reception. The only way to do that is to hike to the top of the mountain. Along the way, you’ll meet other hikers, find hidden treasures, and explore the beautiful landscape.
The best part of this game is you can take all the time you want to enjoy the scenery!
A Short Hike is like a warm hug. I played this game during a pretty hard time this year and it left me smiling.
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play –
- Download A Short Hike on Steam.
- Buy it on Nintendo’s site.
- Visit their official site for more options!
3. Coffee Talk
Coffee Talk is the perfect late-night game to play after a long day.
It’s a visual novel. You’re the owner (and the only employee) of a coffee shop in Seattle called Coffee Talk. As the sole barista, you serve up drinks for fantasy folks like elves, werewolves, orcs, vampires, and more. Mostly, you learn about their lives and listen to their problems. Every day also starts with news from The Evening Whisper – and there is a lot to uncover.
If you love chill games with lore – this is the one for you. And who doesn’t enjoy the ambiance of a coffee shop?
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
4. Littlewood
As a newer gamer, this is becoming one of my favorites!
Littlewood is a story about what happens AFTER you’ve already saved the world. You’re the hero of Solemn but don’t remember anything about your past. You defeated the Dark Wizard with the help of your friends Willow and Dalton, but he wiped your memory. Now you have to rebuild your town, explore Solemn, collect items, craft, gain skills, and meet the townsfolk.
This game reminds me of Stardew Valley but I find it a lot easier to play on my own. I love the post-apocalyptic theme and its concept of rebuilding your life.
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
5. Animal Restaurant
If you’re into mobile games, you should give Animal Restaurant a try!
You work at Gumi’s Kitchen, where almost all the employees are cats (adorable!) You can build your restaurant, grow your staff, learn recipes, serve hungry diners, and listen to their stories. It’s a lot of fun to decorate and make Gummi’s Kitchen your own.
This game has the cutest animation and dialogue. It’s also pretty expansive for a mobile game! I found myself playing for hours at a time – especially at first.
There is no game trailer, but you can get it on Google Play or Apple’s App Store.
6. Frog Detective
Frog Detective would be the perfect game to play during spooky season!
I love the official website’s blurb about the game and had to include it here: “You’re a detective, and a frog, and it’s time to solve a mystery!”
You’re The Detective and there’s a mystery going on in The Haunted Island! A small sloth is being haunted by a mysterious ghost that nobody can catch. As a well-known investigator, it’s up to you to crack this case! But the job isn’t an easy one.
I haven’t tried this one yet, but I saw it on Steam and can’t wait to play!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
7. Garden Story
This game is the definition of cozy – the main character is a grape after all!
Your name is Concord and you’re the youngest Guardian of The Grove. You’re on a mission to save the island from The Rot and protect your new friends. Even better, the villagers are fruits, vegetables, frogs, and other quirky critters. In this game, you need to rebuild the village and find out the secrets of its past.
Garden Story has a unique plot and the animation is charming. It’d be such a fun game to play on a Saturday morning with a soothing cup of tea!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Download Garden Story on Steam.
- Buy it on Nintendo’s site.
- Visit their official site for more options!
8. Journey
I’ve heard so many great things about Journey!
In the game, you’re a mysterious figure who is traveling through the desert. You’re embarking on a journey toward a glowing mountain in the distance. What will you find there? And who will you meet along the way?
This game has a co-op feature, so Alejandro and I want to play together. Based on the trailer it seems like an intriguing and emotional game. Journey is also known for its beautiful soundtrack. I think it’s also cool that you don’t really know much going into the game.
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
9. Storyteller
I found out about Storyteller through Nintendo’s YouTube trailer!
This is a puzzle game where YOU’RE the one writing the stories! The game gives you a title, characters, and settings. You create stories through picture puzzles. The only rule is your story has to match the title, whether there’s a happy ending…or a tragedy. Have fun, author!
As a creative writer, this piqued my interest right away. I haven’t bought the game yet, but it’s on my list of future plays! Also, the music screams Halloween time!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
10. Cozy Grove
Out of all the cozy games on this list, this one actually has the word “cozy” in the title. And it’s safe to say Cozy Grove lives up to its expectations!
You’re a Spirit Scout camping on a haunted island. As you venture through the forest, you are in charge of helping the local ghosts, uncovering secrets, and gaining badges. Through this, you’ll make Cozy Grove a joyful place to be once again!
You won’t spend hours at a time with the game. Rather, the game wants you to play in a balanced way. You get about 30 minutes of new content each day. It’s a nice little pick-me-up in the middle of a workday!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
11. Haven Park
This game is similar to A Short Hike and Animal Crossing. If you’re a fan of those, you’ll love Haven Park!
I downloaded the game on my Nintendo Switch and loved playing it in the evenings to unwind.
You’re Flint, a cute yellow bird who’s trying to keep your grandma’s park up and running! That means you’re in charge of attending to the campers, building cozy camps for them, and keeping them happy! You’ll also have lots of side quests on your journey through the park. It’s a slow-paced game that lets you go out and explore!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
12. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Some people may say Skyrim is not a cozy game, but I say cozy can be many different things! It’s really all about the feeling it provokes and Skyrim is pretty magical. Plus, Alejandro recommends it so I had to include this one on the list.
It is now 4E 201 – two hundred years after the events of Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. There’s a threat of Civil War looming after the High King of Skyrim was killed. Some want to secede from The Third Empire and others want to stay a part of it. And you’re on a quest to defeat Alduin the World-Eater – a dragon that prophecy says will destroy the world.
Check out the trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Buy it on PlayStation.
- Buy it on Nintendo.
- Download Skyrim: Elder Scrolls V on Steam.
- Visit their site for more options!
13. Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer came out just last year and it’s one of the top cozy games!
You’re Stella, a ferrymaster to the deceased or a “Spiritfarer.” First, explore the world after building your boat. Then take care of your spirit friends before releasing them to the afterlife. There’s a lot to do – farming, harvesting, cooking, crafting, mining, fishing, creating memories, and more. You’ll also learn how to say goodbye to your cherished pals in this bittersweet game.
Spiritfarer is touching, sad, and comforting all in one – it’s a must-play for sure!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Spiritfarer Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Download Spiritfarer on Steam.
- Visit their official site for more options!
14. Terraria
The world is your oyster! In Terreria, you can play however you’d like – dig, fight, explore, and build. This is a sandbox meets classic action game where the choice is yours. Will you search for treasure in the caves? Or build your own city? Or test out your combat skills? It’s all up to you!
This game is great if you want to just spend some time exploring because it offers a ton of content!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Terraria Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Download Terraria on Steam.
- Visit their official site for more options!
15. Untitled Goose Game
This game sounds so funny – I have yet to play it, but I hear great things!
Untitled Goose Game has a slapstick humor feel to it. Basically, you’re a goose and it’s a typical day in the village. You don’t like the townspeople though – so your main goal is to bother them! You can honk at them, set up pranks, and ruin their day.
I couldn’t help but chuckle when I read the plot!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Untitled Goose Game Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Download Untitled Goose Game on Steam.
- Visit their official site for more options!
16. Townscaper
Townscaper is a lovely indie game!
There’s no goal in Townscaper. In fact, the developer considers it “more of a toy” than a game. All you have to do is pick colors from a palette, put down colored blocks, and start building an island town! If you like to construct and get creative, this is the game for you!
I like that the game has no objective and you’re free to build as you like. Everyone’s island is going to look unique and that’s awesome!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
17. Night in the Woods
Just an FYI: this game will probably make you cry! It’s so touching and I think many people can relate. I know I did.
You’re Mae Borowski – a recent college dropout returning home to Possum Springs.
Possum Springs used to be a mining town but it’s falling apart. You’re trying to return to your old life and reconnect with friends who stayed in the town, but things don’t feel the same. And strange things keep happening as the leaves change.
A Night in the Woods is another great game to play during this time of year. The animation is stunning and really gets you in the fall mood!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Night in the Woods Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Download Night in the Woods on Steam.
- Visit their official site for more options!
18. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong is a classic cozy game. There’s no doubt about that!
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is the debut game on Nintendo Switch for this beloved franchise. Arctic invaders are trying to turn Donkey Kong Island into their frozen fortress. That means it’s up to you to come to the rescue. Get ready to swing into action and save the island from these frosty foes!
I can imagine myself playing Tropical Freeze under a fuzzy blanket with a cup of hot chocolate. What a fun time that would be!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
19. Donut County
The ultimate stress-relief game!
Donut County is a physics puzzle game. Raccoons are taking over Donut County! And you play as a mysterious hole in the ground that keeps on growing!
In the game, you can meet Donut County residents, steal trash, and throw them in a hole.
This game is hilarious and doesn’t take itself seriously. You’ll definitely have a blast playing Donut County!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Donut County Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Download Donut County on Steam.
- Visit their official site for more options!
20. Flower
Flower is an award-winning cozy game!
You control the wind, explore beautiful environments, and journey through the world around you at your own pace. It’s a lovely way to escape the stress of the day for a little while. The beauty of the game lies in its simplicity.
If you’re a nature lover, make sure to give this game a try!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Download Flower on Steam.
- Get Flower on Playstation’s site.
- Visit their official site for more options!
21. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
You’ve probably heard lots about Animal Crossing, but I had to include it in this list!
Aside from Stardew Valley, this is probably one of the most well-known cozy games.
You play as a villager who bought a getaway package and escaped to a deserted island! You can now create your own paradise in your new home! There’s always something to do in this game. You can craft, decorate your island, fish, collect resources, meet residents, visit your friends’ islands, and more!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
- Get the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch Digital Code here!
- Buy the physical copy of Animal Crossing: New Horizons here!
22. Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game where you can explore, mine, craft tools, build, and fight monsters! It’s easy to get creative and build a world of your own with unique stories!
This is a fantastic game! I have so many awesome memories of playing Minecraft with Alejandro and his younger siblings during the holidays. We all had a fun time and it gives all the cozy vibes.
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
23. Cat Goes Fishing
Cat Goes Fishing…how much cozier can a game get?
You’re Cat – a cat that’s on a fishing adventure! Start off with a basic rod and progress as you catch more fish. It’s as simple as that – sounds purrr-fect to me!
Check out the game trailer here.
Where to Play:
I hope that you enjoyed this post! There are lots of classic, popular, and less-known indie titles out there to fulfill your cozy gamer needs! Maybe one or more of these cozy games will help you cross off your checklist. Have fun gaming! x
Lately Mass Effect 1 has been really helping. Despite the overarching grim storyline I love it so much.
I love this idea,💡 except that I don’t have a desktop computer, or a games console right now.
Have you thought about sharing a similar post for mobile games?
Thank you! And that’s a great idea. I’ve gotten a couple of requests for that so I might do a post about phone games in the future. Thanks for reading and happy holidays! 😊
Many studies say mental health games and activities online have reduced the risk of dementia by 63% in people compared to those who don’t play. Apart from this, these games and activities have several benefits-
work as a mental stimulator
give a feeling of accomplishment
work as a distraction from pain
good for virtual social interaction
improve emotional resilience
Brilliant list. For those who enjoyed Journey or don’t have the console for it. Sky children of the light is made by same people and has a similar concept it is also free.
this list is huge! thank you for sharing!
i have only played animal restaurant! it truly is super calming i love it!
i will soon be playing some nintendo switch games so im excited to hopefully try stardew valley!
Wonderful post, this is inspiration I needed for fall evenings evenings entertainment! I’ve already tried “A Short Hike” and I like it very much 😊 also it’s so good to see you back, I was missing your posts! ❤
Thank you so much, Sabina!! 😊 That means a lot. I’ve been missing blogging and trying to post more recently. A Short Hike is my absolute favorite – it’s such a feel-good game! Hopefully these games make your fall evenings cozy. 💕
What an amazing blog idea! It also falls at the perfect time as I am looking for everything cosy for the winter! ☺ I also only played Skyrim out of all the games you suggest so I have so many new things to discover! Thanks for sharing 😊
Thank you so much for reading Juliette! Glad you liked the post! ❤ Skyrim is my fiance’s favorite game and I’ve been recently loving video games for stress relief. I hope that if you end up playing any of the games on the list, you enjoy them! Personally, A Short Hike and Stardew Valley are my favorites so highly recommend those.