Not everyone boots up their console or PC for an intense night of gaming. Some people just want to sit back and relax while escaping all the stress and turmoil of the real world. Luckily video games can provide the perfect escape. There are hundreds of games out there where is action is not the name of the game. These games could be relaxing for any reason, slow gameplay, relaxing locations or they just have a laidback atmosphere altogether. These are 5 top picks to consider but don’t be afraid to try out relaxing games that are not on this list.
Abzu
Abzu is one of the most beautiful games that has ever been created. You swim through oceans that are filled with all kinds of beautiful life while listening to a soothing soundtrack. The game’s controls are fluid and require little effort allowing you to fully immerse in the marvelous seas. Set all the settings as high as possible if your PC can handle it to fully experience how colorful and lively the world is. The entire experience is relaxing and it’s a game that you will not quickly forget.
Animal Crossing
The most recognizable relaxing game out there. This game has been providing players with an escape from real life since 2001. There are tons of activities to do in the game, such as fishing, collecting bugs or just socializing with the other citizens. There are some goals to work towards, such as opening your own store, but none of these are based on a timer. You can do whatever you want whenever you want. It’s one of the best life simulators around and perfect if you need an escape from real life.
Journey
Journey is a game that you just have to play and experience by yourself. The game is absolutely incredible and one of the best gaming experiences you will ever have in your life. The game looks amazing, feels fluid and surprises you with incredible locations after incredible location. The protagonist that you play as is completely silents so that you won’t be distracted from the beauty of the game. This is one of those games where it is hard to describe what makes it so great, do yourself a favor and just play it.
Stardew Valley
The premise of Stardew Valley is centered around the protagonist escaping city life to start a farm. Sounds familiar? That is exactly what this list is about. Although the game is a farming simulator, farming is not the main experience that you will receive from playing it. The essential part of the game is Stardew Valley itself and the inhabitants that it houses. After playing for a while you will start to become friends with the people living there and from there on out you will never be able to leave Stardew Valley again.
Firewatch
In Firewatch you play as Henry, who has just become a national forest fire lookout in the Shoshone National Forest. The game is mostly a walking simulator where you navigate yourself through stunning forest areas while listening to dialogue between you and a colleague called Delilah. The game is extremely relaxing despite some thrilling story elements that happen throughout the game. Listening to the dialogue while walking through nature is an extremely satisfying experience, we only wish that there was more of it as the game is rather short.
