Not everything has to be a task to accomplish. It’s hard to realize this fundamental truth when everything around requires constant attention – but with the relaxing best games, you’ll achieve that zen mindset sooner than later.
Personal problems, everyday challenges, work, chores, school, world inflation, and endless responsibilities can slowly drain a person from any desire to live. The recipe is simple – chill out. But not everyone has the time or budget to go on a self-discovering trip or spend a few days at a local spa. The solution is closer than it seems because you can reach that peaceful and soothing moment by playing relaxing video games. And no, they don’t want you to rush or complete complex achievements. All you have to do is take a tiny moment for yourself every day and forget everything else.
The 6 Best Games to Help You Unwind | Relax and Play
The Therapeutic Power of Games
Video games evolved from entertainment to a valuable tool supporting well-being and mental health. According to research from recent years, when enjoyed mindfully, they provide an interactive, immersive environment where everyone can benefit from a sense of achievement, improved problem-solving, memory enhancement, and stress relief. All these examples cause the release of endorphins necessary for the healthy functioning of every human being. So know that story-driven titles are the best way to strengthen empathy or the ability to understand diverse perspectives. Multiplayer video games are a remarkable way to develop the social interactions necessary for people with anxiety or seniors. And puzzle games provide a challenge and a sense of success – plus, they’re great for keeping your mind sharp like never before.
Bridging the Generation Gap: Best Games for Everyone
Stress and depression affect everyone – regardless of the age gap, gender, or environment. We are all human and deal with very similar problems throughout our lives. It turns out those chill video games have the power to help everyone’s mental health if tailored to the recipient’s needs. Their goal is not a complete escape from reality but unwinding the mind before approaching the upcoming life challenges.
Celebrating Neurodiversity Through Gaming
Not everyone thinks the same way, and not all brains work the same, which often causes anxiety and the feeling of making mistakes. Neurodivergent folks struggle with such problems all the time but can empower themselves through gaming. Playing introduces participants to social interactions and teaches self-compassion, as everyone makes mistakes in the game. Such an experience is relaxing because it makes you realize the differences between people on some levels are not as massive as they initially looked.
Embracing Diversity in Gaming
Although the first video games were often male-oriented, we are gradually entering the age of diversity in gaming. Increasingly more developers create titles for everyone, regardless of gender, race, age, sexual orientation, or health state. These new game design principles promote fair play and equal opportunities for all, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. And there’s no better feeling than being included.
The Ultimate Relaxation Collection: Top Games to Help You Unwind
- PC
- Xbox One
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation Vita
- Nintendo Switch
- iOS
- Android
| Release year: | 2016 |
| Genre: | Simulation, role-playing |
| Developer | ConcernedApe |
| Game modes | Single-player, multiplayer |
Imagine you inherit a farm, and your only job is to restore it to its former glory – right in the heart of beautiful nature and with the help of many friendly locals living just behind the fence.
Stardew Valley is a farming role-playing game where you can do whatever you want. Develop your farm, embark on an adventure, make friends, go fishing, or fall in love. The whole experience takes place in a charming pixel setting, and you are the sole master of your time.
| Key features |
| Play the inspiring role-playing game on Steam Develop your farm and forge relationships with locals Embark on an adventure and enjoy your free time Play solo or in multiplayer |
- PC
- Xbox One
- PlayStation 4
- Nintendo Switch
- Stadia
- iOS
- Android
| Release year: | 2020 |
| Genre: | Management simulation |
| Developer | Thunder Lotus Games |
| Game modes | Single-player, multiplayer |
Start your career as a professional ferry master traveling to the afterlife. Death can be a pretty fascinating experience!
Take care of your boat and explore a fantastic land inhabited by many cute creatures. Explore, craft items, cook and enjoy your time. Every encountered soul means a new story making this game a truly magical experience!
| Key features |
| Become a spiritfarer Chat with other characters and listen to their stories Have fun with lots of side activities Play solo or in co-op for two players |
PC
Xbox One
PlayStation 4
| Release year: | 2014 |
| Genre: | Social simulation |
| Developer | Maxis |
| Game modes | Single-player |
The Sims mean freedom – you can achieve whatever you desire. Design your perfect Sims and manage every part of their lives!
Design the house, customize your Sims’ appearance, and discover unlimited fun possibilities. Do you want them to be happy? Or prefer to turn their existence into an entirely unstable experience? Your choice!
| Key features |
| Play the most popular life simulation Build the perfect home and decide on your Sims’ look Explore the area and meet other citizens Enhance your experience with the multitude of DLCs |
- PC
| Release year: | 2019 |
| Genre: | Casual video game |
| Developer | Ziba Scott |
| Game modes | Multiplayer |
It’s more of a simulation than a classic video game, with no achievements, quests, or goals to complete. Just be yourself and interact with others.
All you have to do is write letters to others. Or not – it’s your choice. In this game, players receive several letters written by other users and can reply without feeling obligated to do anything. Everyone can share their joys and problems in the soothing company of a relaxing lo-fi soundtrack. It’s a completely anonymous and unique wholesome experience on Steam.
| Key features |
| Play a multiplayer letter-writing simulation Receive messages from others and write them back or not Share your problems and joys Enjoy the most relaxed audiovisual setting |
- PC
- Xbox One
- PlayStation 4
- Stadia
- Nintendo Switch
| Release year: | 2018 |
| Genre: | Platform |
| Developer | Matt Makes Games |
| Game modes | Single-player |
Play as young Madeline climbing to the top of Mount Celeste. Prepare for a pretty challenging adventure, perfect for practicing problem-solving skills.
Embark on an extraordinary journey to avoid dangerous traps, solve puzzles and reach higher levels on your way to the top of Mount Celeste. This game features a high difficulty level, but you can use Assist Mode to make it a bit easier.
| Key features |
| Climb the massive mountain to discover its secret Use unique skills and overcome obstacles Adjust the difficulty level with Assist Mode Enjoy pixel-art visuals |
- PC
- Xbox One
- Xbox 360
- PlayStation 3
- PlayStation 4
- Stadia
- Nintendo Switch
- iOS
- Android
| Release year: | 2015 |
| Genre: | Adventure |
| Developer | Dontnod Entertainment |
| Game modes | Single-player |
It is an episodic adventure game about a unique girl who can manipulate time. Here all decisions matter, and you are the only one deciding how the events unfold.
Max Caulfield returns to her hometown to face unexpected events and revive old friendships. By manipulating time, the heroine can see every version of the encountered situations and decide the future of the entire Arcadia Bay. It’s a very inspiring recommendation where all choices matter.
| Key features |
| Play a unique adventure game about a time-manipulating girl Explore the town and discover its secrets Solve puzzles, chat with other heroes, and decide your future Take your time and see how the story unfolds |
- Desktop
- iOS
- Android
Cribbage is a classic card game that combines elements of skill, luck, and strategy, where the main objective is to be the first player to reach 121 points. Players score points through a variety of card combinations both during the play of the hand and in the subsequent show phase, where hands are displayed and scored based on pairs, sequences, and specific card combinations. For those looking to enjoy this engaging and enjoyable game online, you can visit Cribbage Online, where you can play against computer opponents or connect with friends for a match.
| Release year: | 2021 |
| Genre: | Strategy, card games |
| Developer | Unwind Media |
| Game modes | Single-player, multi-player |
| Key features |
| The platform provides a user-friendly interface, making it easy for both experienced players and newcomers to jump in and start enjoying the game right away. Additionally, Cribbage is offered in easy, standard, and pro modes. |
In response to the escalating global crises and human mental health issues, the best game developers create more welcoming and inclusive titles to make you feel better. It’s so simple. We highly recommend exploring the relaxing recommendations on Steam, G2A news, or the many YouTube videos dedicated to chill games if you want more similar content. Because avoiding rest makes completing the upcoming life tasks more challenging, and even a few minutes of playing can help you unwind and simply relax.
