When thinking of video games, competitive shooters and intense multiplayer tables come to mind first. However, side by side with aggressive and adrenaline-spiking genres, calmer and friendlier games are slowly gaining traction. For many, unwinding after a stressful day at work, college, or school means plugging into the online world. While some still use shooters as a valve to let out frustration from the day, the data shows that a growing number of gamers are stepping away from adrenaline-pumping games. Instead, cozy games are slowly taking over the gaming sphere, offering a more gentle and soothing gaming experience that calms down and creates happy feelings.
What Makes Cozy Games So Popular?
For many, shooters and competitive battle games are anxiety-inducing rather than relieving. Furthermore, many online games require players to invest a cash deposit to start the game, which adds additional pressure. As a counteraction, cozy games offer comfort and in-game progression without pressure. Instead of finding themselves in a bloodbath or intense poker game, players can water plants, decorate houses, spin wheels, and build relationships between virtual characters from the comfort of their own homes.
Next to Stardew Valley and Coffee Talk, Progressive Sweep Slots are stepping into the light. Gamers who enjoy casino games but don’t want to take the risk of losing real money can play slots that incorporate elements of progression and reward casually without the need to bet real money. The emphasis of these games lies in progression and fun in the moment rather than chasing a victory.
The Psychology Behind the Trend
The reason for the change in the gaming world is that modern life is fast-paced and becoming increasingly stressful. Individuals are juggling work and private life while being constantly confronted with devastating world news via online media and social networks. While screens don’t always show what we’d like to see, many use them to unplug from the real world and immerse themselves in a cozy and calm setting that doesn’t appear to be filled with problems that need to be solved. In short, cozy games offer refuge.
For many, video games are still purely a form of entertainment. However, developments in the gaming industry and technological advancements show that there is a broader benefit to gaming. The Entertainment Software Association shared the results of a 2023 conducted survey on gamer behavior and found, that for 63% of gamers, one of the top reasons to play is for stress relief.
Cozy games reduce stress and offer positive emotional and calming experiences. As the modern world is creating more stimuli, gamers are turning increasingly to cozy games to escape the stresses of real life.
Creating a Sense of Community
Another factor that makes cozy games especially appealing is the sense of community they can create. Popular games like Animal Crossing andStardew Valley are among the top games that have a big online community where players exchange ideas and share advice. In a world that is becoming more and more digital, cozy games have managed to create a sense of belonging and community that many online shooter games, where the focus lies in competition, often lack.
Additionally, while seemingly simple to play, cozy games often include rich storytelling that evokes deep emotions. The progressive story development of the game is the real reward for players.
Conclusion: Cozy Has Come to Stay
In a fast-paced world, cozy games are a welcome slowdown. They give players a chance to unplug from the problems of the real world, recharge their batteries, and calm down their nervous system. From planting flowers to spinning wheels, comforting games are a welcome distraction from the modern chaos, and we can expect to see more titles rising that offer comfort and relaxation rather than aggression and adrenaline.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
