Video games; why are we drawn to them? Although some people may dismiss them, they are simply another form of media to be enjoyed like movies or books. They can be a comforting break from reality, and where ignoring reality is never a good thing (though it is tempting), mindfulness and taking it easy are all part of a healthy existence.
I think it's safe to say that video games have offered a specific comfort in the past year because *INSERT OBLIGATORY CORONAVIRUS MENTION HERE*, but the winter months can also weigh us down a little more than other seasons. With these things in mind on top of whatever else people may be going through, it's easy to see how games like Animal Crossing have become so popular even outside of the usual gaming demographic.
Playing video games can appeal to people for multiple reasons; deep lore and story, challenges, action and violence, and even community. It might be that those who don't usually play games wanted to see what the fuss was about. High scores and full completion are attractive for some, but ease of access and simplicity for those who are unfamiliar with the medium are a big part too.
I suppose it all comes down to personal preference, but "cute" and "chill" games have quite the following. Even if the game itself isn't especially deep, there are art styles, aesthetics, music and a lack of urgency that really do make you feel comfy and cosy. Sometimes simplicity is key.
These types of games offer a cutesy charm that can help you relax while still offering engaging tasks to be completed in order to progress, how invested you get in doing so can be up to you depending on the game. I can still look back at these games and remember the hours of comfort they brought. Here are some cute games that I've enjoyed.
Of course Animal crossing was going to be on here, even if I did already mention it. The overall zen atmosphere of the game alongside customisation and all around cuteness make it a fitting tool for relaxation, and how you play is your own choice. You might want to get all the latest new things in the game and fill up the nook miles achievements, but there's absolutely nothing saying you can't just wander around and take in the soft sounds and visuals. I mean, a big part of the game is decorating; placing around furniture in a way that is appealing to you and enjoying the satisfaction. This is especially true of the recent "Happy home paradise" DLC, though that comes at an additional cost. There's just something about the colours and lighting in Animal Crossing that evoke a feeling of cosiness
Stardew Valley is a farming simulator with crafting and customisable elements. There are a few more specific tasks within the game in terms of progression compared to Animal Crossing, but once again if you want to you can just enjoy making a little farm. It takes a little time to really get going in the game, but once you do it's a lot of fun. There are plenty of collectables to find, though they can be a little frustrating to get a hold of. So if you don't want to do all of that, you can just take your time farming and listen to the music.
Wandersong is more like an interactive story with gameplay elements. The colours, characters and music are fantastic and the controls are even made with accessibility in mind, so those with disabilities may have an easier time navigating them. You play as a bard and your interactions are done through singing different notes by either pressing corresponding buttons, or moving the mouse in the corresponding section of an onscreen colour wheel. There are moments where you'll have to sing specific notes to interact with things, but these are usually simple and intuitive. Other moments where you go "wrong" have no consequence aside from the bard coughing and looking a little embarrassed as the music falters. The game has a story to follow, but how much you talk to each character to get greater depth is mostly your choice, and also if you just want to stop sometimes and learn to play songs with the bard like an instrument, you can! There's even a dance button.
This game is fairly simple. You collect different slimes, maybe even combine them, and feed them so they can create "plorts" to be sold for profit. There is a small story element that you see through letters that your character is sent, but other than that it's mostly collecting cute slimes. There are some upgrades and additional areas to unlock if you're willing to do some grinding, but if you just want to run around looking at the silly slimes (or running from the dangerous ones), then why not?
Spiritfarer has some very specific theming. You play as the new "Spiritfarer", someone who accompanies spirits to the afterlife (it's much more pleasant than it sounds, I promise!). There's more depth to it than that, especially as you learn more about individual characters, but if you don't feel comfortable playing a game about death, then you may want to skip this one. It might be therapeutic for some, I myself haven't experienced recent extreme loss so I can't offer much of a perspective, but the subject matter is handled delicately. The art in the game is gorgeous and tasks to be completed in the game can be done so at your leisure. This is another game with collectables, but like the others on this list they are either easy to find or optional. There are challenging moments, but the game is mostly about keeping the spirits on your boat happy. As long as you learn what they like and dislike, they'll be okay, even if some of them aren't very nice. There's even an option to hug them.
In webbed you play as a cute pixelated spider trying to save your boyfriend. This game isn't as casual as the others on this list, but it is very cute. The controls can be strange to get used to as you cast webs to climb on or sling yourself around the screen, but once you get the swing of it it's very fun. There are hidden areas and extras like finding lost baby spiders; they're not required, but they do bulk up the game a bit as it's quite short. Also if you complete them you get little hats or you can be a different type of spider. If you hate spiders to the point of not even wanting to look at a cutesy pixel sprite of one, there's an arachnophobia mode. This turns all spiders in the game in to little blobs instead, though I think the other insects stay the same.
This game is self explanatory. You unpack stuff from boxes and arrange it in a way that you find pleasing. At this time, I've only played the demo of the game, but there is definitely something very satisfying about arranging the various items. Aside from the odd item that might be required to be placed in a specific location, you have relative freedom over how you decide to set up your home. You'll also see which items follow you through each different location at different stages in your life, so there's some light storytelling there. As I said, I've only played the demo, and one complaint I've seen is that the game is quite short for the amount that it costs. Where I have enjoyed what I've played, I think I agree with that. I know I'll cave eventually, but if you're willing to pay, this game is very relaxing and you can replay and arrange the items differently as many time as you want.
I was considering leaving this off the list, because there is a lot in this game that requires you to take pictures of a certain standard, but you can progress and unlock new areas as long as your scores are decent. Mostly this is a game where you go on a Pokemon safari and takes pictures and although sometimes (again, I know) frustrating, it's always cute to see the pokemon running around and hearing their little noises. You can even post your pictures online and add stickers and effects to them, it's fun to see other peoples photos too.
These are just a few of the cute and zen games out there for those wanting to snuggle up and unwind with a good game. Things can be tough and we all need time to recuperate, so why not play?
