10 Best Cozy Games Currently on PS Plus

Highlights

Cozy game trend is on the rise, offering a break from action-packed titles.
PS Plus Catalog has cozy options like Lawn Mowing Simulator & Story of Seasons.
Unpacking, Untitled Goose Game, & Dave the Diver provide relaxing gameplay experiences.

As a seasoned gamer with a soft spot for games that evoke emotions and immerse me in captivating worlds, I must say these three indie games have truly stolen my heart.

For quite some time, gaming has primarily focused on offering intense situations and fast-paced action as an escape from our ordinary lives. Fast-paced shooters and racing games with high speeds were abundant, but now there appears to be a growing desire for games that prioritize tranquility and therapeutic experiences over action.

Comforting and heartwarming games have become extremely popular lately, ranging from farming simulations to relaxing puzzles, or story-driven experiences without pressure. Fortunately, the PS Plus Collection offers a variety of these relaxing titles for your enjoyment. If you’re seeking relaxation, here are some games worth exploring.

10 Lawn Mowing Simulator

Hope You Don’t Have Hay Fever!

We begin by playing a game that might seem dull initially, but proves to be enjoyable and relaxing in reality. At times, the appeal of a game lies in giving your mind a rest and letting it cruise on auto-pilot, and that’s precisely what Lawn Mowing Simulator offers you. As you meticulously transform your clients’ lawns into perfect landscapes over time.

Initially, you’ll have a starting budget at your disposal. As you accept additional tasks, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your team, procure advanced equipment for handling complex projects, and even invest in top-of-the-line lawnmowers for a polished appearance.

If you’re a fan of laid-back, straightforward gameplay similar to that found in titles such as Euro Truck Simulator 2 and Powerwash Simulator, then Lawn Mowing Simulator offers just the right amount of tranquility you’ve been seeking. Give it a try!

9 Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town

A GBA Classic Reborn

Among all types of games, none might embody the essence of the comfort gaming community better than the farming simulators. There’s something incredibly soothing about spending long hours within the game world, cultivating crops under a warm virtual blanket.

As a gamer, I can tell you that this game offers an unique feature where you can build relationships with the villagers, which means checking off socializing from my daily to-do list is as easy as staying indoors. Unfortunately, the PS Plus Catalog isn’t overflowing with Farming Sim options, but they do have a timeless gem called “Friends of Mineral Town“.

As a longtime fan of farming simulation games, I can confidently say that this remake of the classic Harvest Moon title is a must-play for anyone who appreciates the charm and mechanics of the original while also seeking modern improvements. Having grown up with the original Harvest Moon on the Game Boy Advance, I can attest to its influence on the farming simulation genre as a whole. This remake brings back all the nostalgia while offering enhanced visuals and quality-of-life updates that make gameplay even more enjoyable. If you’re curious about the origins of this beautiful sub-genre, give this agricultural epic a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed!

8 Unpacking

Does This Spark Joy?

Comforting games possess an inherent talent for transforming everyday tasks into engaging and fulfilling brainteasers. Games like Unpacking, for instance, utilize this concept effectively, tasking players with packing up their belongings and moving into fresh residences. These homes act as snapshots in your character’s life, providing a glimpse into their journey through the items they decide to keep or discard. As you progress through each move, you witness the evolution of your character as reflected by their possessions.

The gameplay is straightforward – all you have to do is sort items into their correct locations. Yet, these seemingly small puzzles engage your mind deeply, making the story’s powerful and eloquently conveyed silence even more impactful as it unfolds gradually.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in various video games throughout my life, I can confidently say that this game stands out as both a captivating love story and a leisurely, laid-back experience. What sets it apart is the need for the player to actively search for the story, making the journey of discovery all the more rewarding. It’s a brief yet brilliant adventure that offers a perfect escape for a lazy afternoon, providing an engaging narrative and relaxing gameplay that I find myself returning to again and again.

7 Untitled Goose Game

There’s A Goose On The Loose!

Games such as ‘Thank Goodness You’re Here’ or ‘Everyone’s Gone to the Rapture’ demonstrate a certain charm in the everyday routine of village living. It’s basic, consistent, and peaceful.

In this situation, there won’t typically be a destructive goose on the loose. But, here’s an interesting twist: you’ll get to play as that mischievous goose instead! However, your role isn’t just any character – you’ll also become the villain in this Shropshire-set open world game.

In Untitled Goose Game, you’re given the liberty to cause mischief in a peaceful village at your leisure. You can enjoy a collection of amusing puzzles, move about stealthily like a feathery version of Solid Snake, and honk loudly to scare the villagers.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of gaming, I can confidently say that this game is a must-play for anyone seeking unadulterated silliness and endless fun. With its overabundance of absurd moments, it’s like stepping into a comedic vortex that never ceases to entertain.

6 Hardspace: Shipbreaker

The Life Of An Interstellar Engineer

Many games labeled as comforting often gain this reputation through the use of adorable pixel art or carefree environments to traverse. Yet, tranquility can be discovered even within bleak and uninviting landscapes, such as the cold expanse of outer space.

In “Hardspace: Shipbreaker”, you’re challenged to dismantle spacecrafts effectively while ensuring your safety, thus avoiding any injuries.

Learning with the Lynx Corporation is a gradual process that takes some time, but eventually, you’ll move effortlessly in zero gravity like a seasoned NASA worker, and excel at dismantling ships for parts at an unprecedented pace. Once you’re done, be sure to repay your debt with plenty of credits – so don your tools and let’s get started!

5 What Remains of Edith Finch

And You Thought Your Family Was Weird…

In terms of simpler games that eliminate complex mechanics, challenge points, and progressive difficulty levels, few games measure up to the tranquil charm of walkthrough simulations. Typically, these games are restricted to just two features: moving forward and engaging with the environment, and surprisingly, this is more than enough.

These games have been skillfully created so that the visuals, setting, and storyline predominantly shape the gaming experience. Notably, ‘What Remains of Edith Finch’ excels more than many other games in this story-focused gameplay style.

The game offers a collection of self-contained narratives, each featuring distinctive mini-games, which delve into the troubling tales connected to every member of the Finch family. Each narrative becomes increasingly poignant and emotionally impactful as you progress through them.

As a long-time gamer with a soft spot for heartwarming stories, I can confidently say that this game is an absolute gem for those who appreciate both emotional depth and a comforting, relaxing atmosphere. Having played countless games over the years, I’ve learned to always keep tissues close by when diving into a story that tugs at my heartstrings, but this one is particularly poignant.

4 Tinykin

A Pikmin-esque Platformer

In recent times, we’ve seen an abundance of innovative twists on the classic platformer design, games like Jusant and Celeste, which test our climbing skills to the limit, and collaborative adventures such as It Takes Two. However, it’s worth noting that mascot-themed platformers have been relatively scarce since the heyday of the PS2.

Occasionally, there’s a game that manages to keep the passion alive, and Tinykin is just such a game.

As a gamer, what truly sets this game apart for me is my capacity to command these fascinating Tinykins – a creature reminiscent of Pikmin in its versatility. These critters are not just adorable companions; they can double as ladders, serve as spark plugs, act as explosives, and much more, aiding me in my journey through the ancient world that my people abandoned long ago.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel drawn to this delightful, laid-back platformer that’s brimming with brain-tickling puzzles, hidden treasures, and other engaging elements. It’s an absolute gem for retro platformer lovers like myself, offering an irresistible experience that’s hard to put down once you’ve picked it up.

3 Kena: Bridge of Spirits

About As Close To Disney As It Gets

I found myself hesitant about this one since Kena: Bridge of Spirits seems to focus more on action, has potential failure points, and incorporates combat reminiscent of Souls-like games. However, it retains a comforting quality, as the game’s aesthetic is remarkably similar to a Pixar film, making it a cozy gaming experience.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I must say that this game offers an immersive and captivating world that brings nature to life like never before. The platforming is engaging, the puzzles challenging, and the combat thrilling – but what truly sets it apart are the Rot creatures. With their big, endearing eyes, they’ve managed to tug at my heartstrings in a way few games have. I can honestly say that I would risk everything to protect them, having grown quite attached during my playthrough. This game has left an indelible mark on me and is undoubtedly one of the best experiences I’ve had in gaming.

From an impressive array of contenders, this game was crowned the Indie Game of the Year for 2021. If you’re curious about what made it stand out, be sure to give it a look!

2 Spiritfarer

‘A Cozy Resource Management Game About Dying’

Let’s shift gears a bit, but it’s important we discuss a serious topic: death. It’s something inevitable for everyone, and when our time comes, we all desire a fitting farewell. That’s the essence behind the game Spiritfarer – it explores this very concept.

In this role, you’re Stella, who takes over from Charon, known as the Spiritfarer. Your responsibility is to provide a cozy haven for spirits on your vessel, ensuring their comfort at every turn, and gently guiding them towards their next journey – the afterlife.

As a passionate gamer, I must admit this title seems rather demanding, yet it’s not all doom and gloom. It’s a masterfully designed strategy game that could leave you in tears, but the hook is irresistible – an addictive ‘one more day’ loop that keeps pulling me back in.

Discovering the unique qualities of each Spirit brings great joy, though parting can be painful. Nevertheless, the experience is ultimately rewarding. Therefore, prepare yourself for a roller-coaster ride of emotions and embark on this delightful journey.

1 Dave The Diver

A Satisfying Combination Of Diving & Dining

To wrap it up, there’s a game that offers an exceptional and charming gameplay experience loop which I’ve been privileged to experience personally. The game titled “Dave the Diver” lets you step into Dave’s shoes, and your responsibilities are twofold:

During the day, you’ll delve into the profound depths of the ocean to harvest fish for your sushi establishment, and as evening falls, you’ll oversee the dinner service and strive to ensure that your patrons express nothing but praise for your enterprise.

The core loop of diving and dining is a wonderfully addictive experience, and the game manages to keep this fresh for the entire run with loads of fun new mechanics and upgrades to unlock, fun new characters to meet, and a wealth of mini-games that are as zany as you might expect.

Several people question whether Dave the Diver truly deserves its status as an indie sensation, but there’s no dispute about this: The game offers a comfortable, relaxed, and captivating journey from beginning to end.

2024-08-21 15:10