The cozy gaming niche has taken the gaming world by storm, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Beyond the broader category of cozy games, you’ll find subniches that are just as varied and fun.
Cozy games are a niche in the gaming world that encompass experiences free from stressful time constraints and violence. These games are designed to be relaxing, making them perfect for unwinding or playing at your own pace.
While the cozy gaming world has nearly become synonymous with farming simulators like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing, there’s so much more to this niche beyond those beloved titles. From cozy Steam games to cherished Nintendo Switch releases, here are ten games that will broaden your cozy gaming horizons.
Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer is an unconventionally cozy game that addresses themes of grief and loss in a surprisingly soothing and charming way. You play as Stella, the new Spiritfarer, guiding spirits to the afterlife by caring for them on your magical boat. The hand-drawn art and calming soundtrack further enhance its charm and fun gameplay.
Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit
This mobile-only game is a sequel to the popular Nintendo Switch title Cozy Grove. You play as a Spirit Scout stranded on a haunted island, completing tasks that restore color and joy to the environment. You build relationships with the island’s inhabitants and uncover mysteries, all set to a relaxing musical backdrop. This title is the epitome of cozy gaming, and it is perfect if you are just getting your cozy gaming feet wet.
A Highland Song
A Highland Song is a true work of art set against a lush Scottish musical landscape. This narrative-driven adventure game exudes cozy vibes as you explore the wild Scottish lands on your journey to the coast. Filled with enchanting folklore, it’s a magical title well worth playing.
Dordogne
Dordogne is a one-of-a-kind, cozy game set in the French countryside. With its breathtaking watercolor art style and emotionally evocative soundtrack, you play as a young woman revisiting memories from her grandmother’s past in this story-driven adventure that is certain to give you all the feels.
Unpacking
Hailing from the zen puzzle niche, Unpacking is perfect for those who love organization and attention to detail. You’ll unpack and arrange belongings in various living spaces, gradually revealing the life story of the unseen protagonist. It’s a thoughtful and reflective game, offering a unique and soothing experience as you explore life’s transitions through the simple act of unpacking.
Eastshade
Eastshade is a peaceful, open-world game perfect for nature lovers. You play as a traveling artist, painting the stunning landscapes you encounter, interacting with inhabitants and completing quests that teach you more about the land. It’s a beautiful and mesmerizing cozy game that will enchant you with its creativity and top-notch graphics.
The Gardens Between
The Gardens Between is a visually stunning puzzle game in which you play as two friends exploring surreal, dreamlike islands filled with oversized objects that must be manipulated to restore order. The game offers unique controls for manipulating time and a refreshing approach to exploring the themes of friendship.
A Short Hike
A Short Hike is a relaxing and charming adventure game set in a peaceful, open-world environment. Your main goal is to reach the summit of a mountain, but along the way, you’ll meet interesting characters, find hidden treasures and discover the joy of exploration. It’s the perfect play-at-your-own-pace title.
Wytchwood
This vibrant and colorful crafting adventure game is set in a whimsical fairy tale world. You play as an old witch, collecting ingredients, brewing potions and casting spells to solve puzzles and complete quests. Wytchwood is filled with beautiful illustrations and enchanting folklore, providing a truly magical and immersive gaming experience for those who love a bit of charm.
Coffee Talk
In this story-driven simulation game, you run a late-night coffee shop in a fictional version of Seattle. You’ll listen to stories from a diverse range of customers, from humans to elves and orcs. Your job is to craft the perfect brew to suit each customer’s mood. With its pixel art and lo-fi soundtrack, Coffee Talk has all the hallmarks of a comforting game.
Final thoughts
Cozy gaming isn’t just about tending crops and raising animals — it’s about finding comfort and joy in all kinds of experiences. These ten games show that there’s so much more to the cozy gaming world than farms. Whether you’re drawn to a peaceful puzzle, an adventurous journey or a heartfelt story, there’s something here that will satisfy your cozy gaming needs beyond the farm.
Kristen Wood is a writer, photographer, avid cozy gamer and creator of The Cozy Gaming Nook, your source for everything cozy games. Her work has been featured in various online and print publications, including Elle, NBC, Chicago Sun-Times, Martha Stewart, Seattle Times, Good Housekeeping and more.