Summary
So, you’re new to cozy games and looking for a good place to start. Luckily for you, thesub-genre is more popular than ever, with countless titles on all major platforms to choose from. But where should you even begin? Nothing kills relaxing vibes better than scrolling through endless options when you’re unsure of what to play.
Fortunately, you can delve into plenty of beginner-friendly cozy titles if you know where to look. The following games span a wide variety of genres, from stress-free puzzlers to wholesome visual novels. Each one features fun, easy-to-learn gameplay, even if you’ve never played a video game before.
8Galaxy Burger
A Cute Multiplayer Cooking Sim
Cooking simulators are a surefire way to relax, and Galaxy Burger is an excellent choice for newcomers. In this sci-fi adventure, you manage a fast food restaurant in Outer Space. Take your customers' orders and cook them a burger based on their often surprising specifications.
With no time limit in your way, feel free to take your time and ensure each meal is prepared correctly. You can evenplay with up to seven friends through online co-op. The best part? Many of your guests are talking cats in mech suits. What more could you ask for?
If you prefer playing on mobile devices, Good Pizza, Great Pizza is a solid alternative.
7A Castle Full Of Cats
An Adorable Hidden Object Game
Everything is cozier with kittens, which is why A Castle Full of Cats is so relaxing. This hidden object game places you in a semi-open gothic castle brimming with cleverly hidden felines. Your job is to investigate each room and spot enough kitties to open the next area.
This is the perfect game if you need to shut off your brain for a while. The gameplay tests your observational skills without ever getting too challenging. Bonus points for the adorable art style and even cuter kittens.
Alba: A Wildlife Adventure isa feel-good, open-world gameabout protecting the environment. Things are dire in the island town of Secarral, Spain. The animals are in danger, there’s litter everywhere, and the mayor wants to turn the local nature reserve into a hotel. It’s up to a brave girl named Alba to help the wildlife.
The goal is to explore the island, photograph animals, and recruit people to join your cause. It’s a short yet wonderfully wholesome experience with an inspiring message. Plus, the adorable art style is a treat for the eyes.
For more cozy open-world exploration, check out Lil Gator Game, Infinity Nikki, or Little Kitty, Big City.
What better way to unwind than a peaceful trip to the park? That’s the premise of Webfishing. Create your own cat or dog avatar and explore a lush autumn forest with plenty of ponds and lakes to catch fish. Play it solo or invite some friends along and communicate through an in-game chat room.
Need a break from fishing? Grab some chalk and draw pictures on the ground with your buddies, or buy a guitar and serenade them with a lovely tune. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the area for secrets. The endearing, low-poly graphics and stress-free gameplay ensure each second is as calming as possible.
Visual novels are a great way to de-stress, and Coffee Talk is the best one to start with. You’re a barista in a whimsical fantasy world, and your customers are magical creatures, including everything from pixies to orcs. Make them a hot drink, design latte art, and listen to their touching and often relatable stories.
The gameplay could not be simpler, allowing you to focus on the heartwarming narrative and captivating characters. The world in Coffee Talk is endlessly charming, and the relaxing vibes feel like a hug for the soul. It almost feels like reading a cozy fantasy book, making it perfect for cuddling up in bed with a cup of tea.
Looking to test your mind? A Little to the Left is an adorable puzzle game about tidying up. Each stage features a somewhat messy or disorganized area, and it’s up to you to arrange the objects in the correct order. Some brain-teasers have multiple solutions, catering to multiple trains of thought.
The catch? A mischievous (albeit cute) cat pops up every now and then to mess things up. The goal is to solve the puzzle while finding ways around your kitten’s playful tampering. It’s an incredibly charming title and a great entry into the puzzle genre.
If you want a cozy platformer, A Short Hike is one of the most calming. Take control of a bird named Claire, whose goal is to reach the top of Hawk Peak Trail. To do so, you must explore the park and collect golden feathers, each expanding your moveset to grant access to new areas.
However, there’s no rush. Take some time to go fishing, look for collectibles, go on side quests, and learn each character’s backstory. It’s a laid-back experience with no time limit or enemies to bog you down. Go at your own pace and enjoy the sights.
You’ve probably played or heard of Stardew Valley, so why not trya different farming simulator? Wylde Flowers follows a young witch named Tara, who moves to the charming town of Fairhaven to care for her grandma’s farm. Grow crops, raise animals, mingle with the villagers, and maybe even fall in love. There are even LGBTQ+ romance options!
The best part about the game is its emphasis on fantasy elements. In addition to farm work, you can brew potions, learn to fly a broomstick, and even turn into a cat. There’s even a story to keep you immersed in the adventure.
You really can’t go wrong with any farming sim. Some other excellent choices are Stardew Valley, Cozy Grove, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Disney Dreamlight Valley, and Hello Kitty Island Adventure.
