During the holiday season, when we often pause for a little downtime and some introspection, there’s something else we’ve all got in mind – diving into some fantastic video games. What could be a better companion during this time than cozy games? These are the kind of games crafted for relaxation, bringing joy without the stress, yet every bit as creative as their fast-paced counterparts.
Whether the chill in the air has you scrolling through a neglected game library or browsing for the latest hits on the Xbox store, we’ve curated some perfect picks to cuddle up with. These games are categorized to match whatever mood strikes you. So, pour a steaming drink into your favorite oversized mug, snuggle into a warm, comfy blanket, and join us as we explore.
Fun on the Farm
Farming simulators are where the cozy game genre really began. They offer peaceful escapes into worlds where we can plant crops, hang out with friends, and go on adventures as we see fit. If you’re in search of a no-combat zone or prefer a light challenge, we’ve got plenty of options.
Stardew Valley
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Take on the rustic charm of Stardew Valley as you inherit your grandfather’s old farm. It’s all about turning an overgrown plot into a sprawling homestead. Enhance your farming, fishing, and combat skills, craft items, and form bonds with the townsfolk – you might even find love. With the recent 1.6 update adding heaps of new content, there’s never been a better time for newcomers and veterans alike to jump into the fun, and you can do all this with up to eight friends online.
Lightyear Frontier
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Seeking farming on a grander scale? Lightyear Frontier opens up a universe of possibilities. It’s an open-world wonderland where you can create your dream farm – complete with a customizable mech! Discover the mysterious planet’s ecosystem with friends, as up to three others can join your intergalactic escapades in this delightful, farming-meets-robots adventure.
Coral Island
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
In this sweet twist on farming sims, Coral Island lets you swap city life for laid-back island vibes. Grow crops, care for animals, join a vibrant community, and dive into fun island activities. With over 70 characters to socialize with, along with tasks like fishing and reef diving, it invites you to live a slow, joyful life filled with treasure hunts and nature’s beauty.
Comfy, Cozy Puzzles
If you’re not drawn to farm life, perhaps tranquil puzzle games are what you need. These games aren’t too taxing; they offer peaceful puzzle-solving surrounded by beautiful art styles, letting you explore at your own leisure.
Botany Manor
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Step into the shoes of Arabella Greene, a retired botanist looking to rejuvenate her estate’s gardens. Unearth clues, grow forgotten plants, and solve puzzles to reveal new parts of the manor and its history, immersing yourself in Arabella’s intriguing past.
A Little To The Left
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
For those who find pleasure in tidiness, this charming game offers over 100 delightful puzzles centered around organizing everyday objects. Relish the satisfaction of a well-ordered space as you arrange everything from screws to shelves in creative and engaging scenarios.
Strange Horticulture
Available on Cloud, Console
Dive into the eerie world of Strange Horticulture, where you become a plant store owner in a town shadowed by dark mysteries. As you immerse yourself in this unique balance of calm and ominous themes, your growing botanical expertise helps unravel the story, all while leading you into the enigmatic depths of Undermere.
Light-hearted Adventures
If puzzle games aren’t supplying quite enough movement for you, and you’re looking for some more interactive experiences, consider these easy-going adventures. They promise exploration and light quests with no stress from combat or heavy decisions.
Lil Gator Game
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Enjoy the pure bliss of this platformer where you play as a small gator exploring an island full of new friends and fun quests. It’s a delightful escape that invites you to wander through beautiful forests and hilltops, uncovering secrets at your own pace.
Dungeons of Hinterberg
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
This game brings together the thrill of exploring dungeons with engaging social systems. As Luisa, you navigate a town-turned-tourist-attraction with dungeons now dotting the scenic Hinterberg. Whether you explore these intriguing sites or simply chat with the locals, there’s something for everyone.
Little Kitty, Big City
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Experience the city from a tiny feline’s perspective in this whimsical exploration game. Help the adventurous kitty as they find their way home, cause a bit of mischief, make new animal friends, and even don a charming little hat!
Spiritfarer
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
In this unique management game, you step into the shoes of Stella, ferrying spirits to the afterlife. Despite the somber theme, the game offers a comforting journey through a beautiful world where you can farm, mine, craft, and cook, all alongside your co-op companion, Daffodil the cat.
Jusant
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Embark on a peaceful ascent in Jusant, a game that merges action-puzzling with the tranquility of climbing. Armed with climbing tools, your task is to scale a towering structure. The journey is enriched with picturesque views and soothing soundscapes, ensuring a calming experience.
A Short Hike
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Take a gentle trek through the vivid, mountainous landscapes of Hawk Peak Provincial Park. As a small bird with a big heart, you’ll uncover hidden wonders, meet other creatures, and soak up the serene surroundings as you journey towards the summit.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Explore this magical life simulation game where you can bond with iconic Disney and Pixar characters. By taking on quests, decorating your home, and restoring the Dreamlight Valley, you’ll bring life back to this enchanting place.
Cozy Narrative Delights
For those who savor a captivating story with low-pressure gameplay, these narrative-rich games are just the ticket. Whether scrolling through a hand-drawn expedition or diving into the depths of a claymation universe, these tales are meant to be savored.
Chicory
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Step into an enchanting world full of colorful characters in Chicory. As you search for the missing artist, Chicory, your artistic talents become tools for solving puzzles and uplifting friends, all while unraveling a touching story.
Toem
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Embrace your adventurous spirit in Toem, where you’ll traverse a beautiful world armed with just your camera. Discover the hidden charm of various locations, capture moments, and interact with delightful characters along the way.
Harold Halibut
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Enter the unique retro-futuristic world of Harold Halibut, an adventure that takes place deep underwater. Follow Harold, a charming lab assistant, as he navigates through a community of quirky creatures and unravels humanity’s secrets through this cozy claymation experience.
Satisfying Cleanups
If you equate tackling a big mess with relaxation, these games will have you happily putting off your own household chores. Experience the joy of organizing and cleaning virtual environments from your favorite comfy spot.
PowerWash Simulator
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Enjoy the simple pleasure of PowerWash Simulator, where you can methodically cleanse streets, vehicles, and more in a dirt-busting adventure. As you unlock new levels and gear, a story of the quirky town of Muckingham unfolds.
House Flipper
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Transform run-down properties into beautiful homes in House Flipper. As a one-person renovation crew, you’ll earn money through different contracts, allowing you to spruce up abandoned houses with creativity and precision.
Unpacking
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Unleash your inner organizer in Unpacking. This narrative-driven puzzle game invites you to piece together a story through the objects in each new home, crafting comforting spaces filled with personal touches.
Nostalgic Cozy Favorites
There’s a unique warmth in revisiting classic games from your past, making them perfect for cozy evenings. During the holidays, delve into these revamped gems from the 90s, whether for a trip down memory lane or to introduce them to the next generation.
Spyro: Reignited Trilogy
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Revisit the glorious realms of the original Spyro trilogy, now beautifully remastered for a new generation. Glide through the vibrant levels, rescue fellow dragons, and collect valuable treasures in this thrilling return to adventure.
Crash Bandicoot: N’Sane Trilogy
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Lose yourself in nostalgia with the return of Crash Bandicoot. This beloved marsupial is back with enhanced graphics and gameplay that honors the original. Bounce, spin, and laugh your way through a series of exciting trials.
Return to Monkey Island
Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Join Guybrush Threepwood in this delightful new chapter of the beloved Monkey Island series. With updated point-and-click mechanics, clever puzzles, and witty dialogue, it’s an adventure brimming with everything you loved about the originals, and maybe more.
So, as we approach the coziest time of the year, these games provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and fun. Grab your controller, cozy up, and let the gaming adventures begin!
