Top 10 games that will help you relax

Relaxing games that help you unwind after a long day

With all the high-energy, fast-paced games out there, sometimes you just want to kick back, relax, and enjoy something more chilled out. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or you’re looking to wind down after an intense gaming session, picking the right game can help you relax, recharge, and get lost in a peaceful world. I’ve put together a list of my top 10 games that are perfect for relaxation, each offering a unique way to escape the stresses of life. So, let’s dive in!

1. Stardew Valley

If you’ve ever dreamed of leaving your stressful city life behind and moving to the countryside for a simpler life, Stardew Valley is the game for you. This charming farming simulator lets you build your own little slice of heaven by planting crops, tending to animals, and interacting with local villagers. The soft color palette, gentle music, and the satisfaction of seeing your farm thrive make this game perfect for winding down.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• No time pressure: You can take your time and play at your own pace.
• Peaceful environment: The game emits positive and calming vibes, with minimal stress involved.
• Creative freedom: Design your farm however you like!

2. Journey

Journey is a visual masterpiece that offers a calming experience unlike any other. You play as a robed figure traveling across vast deserts, mountains, and awe-inspiring landscapes, with the goal of reaching a shining mountain in the distance. It’s simple but profound, featuring moving music and stunning visuals that make you feel like you’re embarking on a beautiful adventure.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• No dialogue: The game’s story is told through its visuals and music, allowing you to interpret it in your own way.
• Smooth and elegant gameplay: The controls are easy and intuitive, with no real “game over” states to frustrate you.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons drops you onto a deserted island where you can create and shape your own paradise. Whether you’re planting trees, fishing, decorating your house, or chatting with your neighbors, this game gives you full creative control over how you want to spend your virtual vacation. Its charming graphics, relaxing music, and stress-free gameplay loop provide the perfect escape from reality.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Go at your own speed: There are no rushes or challenges to stress you out.
• Endless creativity: Design your island and home however you like.
• Super chill vibes: Even the characters are incredibly relaxed and easy-going.

4. The Sims 4

In The Sims 4, you get to create and control a variety of characters as they live out their lives in a simulated world. Whether you’re building the perfect dream house, engaging in Sims’ daily lives, or just sitting back and watching things unfold, this game offers a relaxing way to unwind and let your creativity flow. Even if they’re in dire need of a bathroom break, your Sims won’t add any stress to your real life.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Total control: You get to play god (and sometimes it’s just fun to watch the chaos).
• Limitless creativity: Build houses, customize characters, and micromanage their entire lives.
• No rush: Pause at any time, and there’s rarely anything that punishes you harshly.

5. Flower

Flower is an artistic and meditative game where you take control of the wind, guiding flower petals through various vibrant environments. It’s slow-paced and filled with color, and most importantly, there’s no pressure to succeed or progress in any particular way. It’s the perfect game to zone out to and lose yourself in its beauty.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Simple and lovely: The visuals are gorgeous, with serene scenes that are a feast for the eyes.
• No threat: You don’t have to deal with enemies, timers, or difficulty spikes.
• Fluid controls: It’s smooth and intuitive, making every movement calming.

6. Abzû

Abzû takes you to the depths of the ocean for a beautiful and relaxing underwater adventure. You’ll swim with diverse marine life, explore sunken ruins, and unravel a story of ancient civilizations. The water physics are incredibly smooth, making it feel like you’re floating dreamily underwater. Plus, watching shoals of fish as they elegantly move around you is simply mesmerizing.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Immersive world: The ocean environment is soothing and beautifully designed.
• Gentle experience: It’s a meditative game with little stress and a lot of wonder.
• Ambient soundtrack: The music perfectly complements the serene vibe of the game.

7. Kind Words (lo fi chill beats to write to)

If you’re looking for a game that offers comfort and positivity, Kind Words is a unique little gem where you can write kind letters to people, and in return, receive positive messages from others. The game encourages you to relax, write, and share goodwill in an uplifting and calming environment, all with some lo-fi beats playing in the background.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Real-world positivity: It can lift your mood, knowing you’re helping people or receiving kind words yourself.
• Great music: Chill, lo-fi beats create a mellow atmosphere.
• No complexity: It’s incredibly simple and accessible, with a focus on giving and receiving comfort.

8. My Time at Portia

My Time at Portia takes you to a colorful post-apocalyptic world (don’t worry, it’s a lot less bleak than it sounds!) where you’ll rebuild your workshop, craft items, and build relationships with the townsfolk. There’s no pressure to speed through the game, and you’re free to explore, farm, and collect resources as you see fit. This game’s charm is in its laid-back energy, where the passing days feel more like a relaxing stroll than a race against the clock.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Charming world: Beautiful landscapes and charismatic characters create a delightful and stress-free environment.
• Slow-paced: You can spend your time however you’d like, from crafting to farming.
• Feel-good gameplay: Everything about the game’s tone is meant to make you feel happy and relaxed.

9. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a stunning puzzle game with Escher-like optical illusions that create mind-bending but relaxing challenges. The visuals are minimalistic yet artistic, and the soundtrack is calming enough to get you into the zone. It’s a gentle puzzle experience, perfect for those moments when you want your mind to be occupied but not stressed.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Tranquil experience: The puzzles are thoughtful but never frustrating.
• Beautiful art: Every level is like a piece of art in motion.
• Ambient soundtrack: The music adds to the relaxing and immersive atmosphere.

10. Donut County

Donut County is a quirky, physics-based puzzle game where you play as a hole in the ground (yes, really!) that grows larger as it swallows up more objects. The game mixes calming gameplay, charming visuals, and a surprisingly heartwarming story. It’s easygoing, gently-paced, and doesn’t require much mental strain but gives you the satisfaction of clearing each level.

Why it’s great for relaxation:

• Low stress: There are no time limits or challenging puzzles to frustrate you.
• Whimsical art: The game’s bright colors and quirky style make it fun and lighthearted.
• Short and sweet: It’s easy to pick up when you just need a quick, enjoyable escape.

Conclusion

There you have it—my top 10 games to help you relax and unwind. Each of these titles brings its own charm and unique experience, perfect for whatever mood you’re in. Whether you’re managing a peaceful farm, swimming with the fishes, or simply watching a hole in the ground gobble up random objects, there’s a game on this list that can help you forget about your stress and just enjoy the moment. Try them out and let me know which one helps you unwind the most!

If you enjoyed this list, be sure to share it with your gaming buddies or check back for more content on chill games and other tips to make your gaming experience better. Happy relaxing!