The best cozy games

In a world where so many games send you on missions with tense action and high stakes, sometimes it’s nice to just sit back and relax a bit. That’s where the cozy genre comes in with calming exploration, crafting, and decorating that give you a sense of purpose without all of the stress that comes from more action-oriented games.

If that’s what you’re after, look no further, as we’ve compiled a list of what we consider to be the best cozy games you can play right now.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

83 % E Platforms Nintendo Switch Genre Simulator Developer Nintendo EPD, Nintendo Publisher Nintendo Release March 19, 2020 <div data-cloudcity="" data-type=«button» data-pid=«uRUoezxLd9» data-limit=«3» data-cta_pattern="$%price %merchant" id=«dtcc-uRUoezxLd9»> Animal Crossing has long been known as the quintessential franchise within the cozy gaming genre, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons has only further sealed it’s status as such. With its diverse cast of characters, near-endless amount of customizability, and a bustling community of die-hard fans eager to help each other and work together, this entry in the beloved series showcases the very best of what a cozy game can and should be.

There’s really just nothing else that compares. Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo Switch Trailer — Nintendo E3 2019

Disney Dreamlight Valley

80 % E Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S Genre Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Adventure Developer Gameloft Publisher Gameloft Release September 06, 2022 Disney Dreamlight Valley asks, “What if Animal Crossing was a Disney game?” and manages to pull it off shockingly well.

This cute and vibrant social sim sets you off on an adventure filled with beloved Disney characters and plenty of ways to customize your valley. However, it also stands out with its quest-based structure and various unique gameplay mechanics that ensure that there’s always something.