Relaxing video games that I like to play
Finding moments that we can calm down and recharge are rare. While video games are often associated with energy and excitement, we can still use them for relaxation and stress relief. From soothing graphics and music, easy gameplay, and enriching story telling, some games are specifically designed for calming the mind. Here are some video games that I personally find calming and relaxing. Games that I can count on not only for a good time, but a relaxing time as well.
Stardew Valley
A game favored by many gamers, Stardew Valley is what everyone thinks of when you ask them their favorite cozy game. Stardew Valley has hundreds of hours of relaxing content to include:
Planting and harvesting crops
Fishing
Tending Animals
Relationship building with the local townsfolk
Mining ore and cutting down trees
The ability to design and decorate your own farm
And the ability to play with your friends.
This game makes you slow down and be patient. The repetitive, yet rewarding tasks give you a sense of accomplishment while allowing you to play at your own pace. This game is perfect if you are just getting into gaming or if you’ve been gaming for years.
Core Keeper
A game similar to Minecraft and Stardew Valley, Core Keeper’s gameplay is all about mining and uncovering the world’s story. Core Keeper allows you to:
Plant and harvest crops in order to heal yourself and give you buffs against enemies
Fish
Tend to animals
Mine and explore the world
The ability to create and decorate your own base
And the ability to play with your friends.
Core Keeper may not be for everyone. There are enemies in the game which some may find challenging. However, Core Keeper allows you to set your own settings and lets you control how hard the game is. Core Keeper has hundreds of hours of gameplay and a huge world to explore and make your own.
No Man’s Sky
Set in the vast openness of space, No Man’s Sky allows you to transverse the whole universe. Discover planets, animals, and plant life while going on quests to discover the story of the universe. No Man’s Sky has a vast amount of content to explore to include:
The ability to create and decorate your own base
Traveling and exploring the universe by spaceship
Mining and collecting resources
And the ability to play with your friends.
This game’s endless exploration and ambient music can provide you with a sense of escape and calmness which makes it a great choice for relaxation.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing has a history of being a game that you can relax to. New Horizons, set on a deserted island lets you:
Befriend animal villagers an invite them to live on your island
Customize and decorate your island
Collect bugs, fish, and fossils
There’s really no end game to Animal Crossing (except for paying off Tom Nook.) With its serene soundscapes and seasonal changes, Animal Crossing fosters a sense of connection to nature, even if it’s virtual.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild is The Legend of Zelda’s first open world game that gives you a large map built for exploration and relaxation. In this game, you can:
Explore a vast open world with many secrets to find
Solve puzzles at your own pace
Engage in combat or collect items for the game's cooking system.
The game’s amazing visuals, dynamic (but sometimes annoying. I’m looking at you rain) weather system, and calming music create a meditative experience. Whether you’re gliding through the air or watching the sunrise over Hyrule, Breath of the Wild provides endless opportunities to relax and recharge.
What makes these games so effective at promoting relaxation is their ability to immerse players in calming environments and gentle gameplay. They encourage mindfulness, allowing players to focus on small, manageable tasks or simply enjoy the scenery. Unlike high-pressure games, these titles emphasize exploration, creativity, and personal pacing. By incorporating any of these games into your routine, you can create moments of peace and relaxation amidst life’s chaos.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this mental health blog is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or treatment. Always consult with a qualified mental health professional for personalized guidance. The blog owner and authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided on this blog.
If you are in a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit your local Emergency Room for assistance.
Are you struggling with life's challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking a path to personal growth and healing? Whether it be depression, anxiety, life transitions, or general life stress, I'm here to help. You don't have to go through this journey alone. Start your healing journey now – make that call, send that email, or book your first therapy session. Your well-being is worth it, and there is hope for a happier, healthier you.
