Genre cozy games there has been a huge surge in popularity over the past few years, which has unfortunately also led to growing confusion about what the term means. Some have begun to classify any game they like as being convenient for them, while others may not even consider it to be related to the game, but simply to the player’s real-life gaming setup. Cozy games are not just farming simulators, the genre has certain qualities that give the term meaning.
There are countless cozy games available for all platforms, and the genre is growing every day. Events like Wholesome Direct and Wholesome Snack, podcasts like Slow Burn: a podcast about cozy gamingand thousands of streamers continue to spread the genre to a wider audience. These games are not limited to any one demographic, but can be a fun experience for anyone who enjoys it. In some cases, cozy games have even been recommended to help people with mental health conditions due to their low-stress approach to entertainment.
What does the “Cozy Game” genre mean?
Qualities that make a game “cozy”
Cozy play isn’t just about wrapping yourself in a blanket while playing. Call of Dutyalthough for many it can still be an enjoyable experience. To call a game cozy, it must have certain characteristics, no matter what type of room the player has.
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Safety and security |
Cozy games contain virtually no threat of danger or violence, low risk. If there is a fight, then less attention is paid to it. |
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Low stress |
It may seem like time is moving too quickly, but there are no immediate needs for survival. |
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Comfortable feeling |
Often, cozy games create a certain “atmosphere” by providing calming stimuli through music or graphics. |
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Inclusivity |
Cozy games should be a safe place for everyone. |
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Increase your overall wealth |
These games improve the disposition of the players. Often provides a feeling of calm, victory, validation or dopamine release during gameplay. |
Traditionally, cozy games focus on cuter and nicer graphic designs, although this is not a requirement.
Just like horror games or even strategy games are defined by the feelings they evoke in a person, cozy games are no different. Overall there should be a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Essentially the hygge of games.
Cozy games favor relaxation with less stress
Not always farming simulators
Typically, for many, the term “cozy games” may conjure up images of farming simulators such as Harvest Moon or Stardew Valley. While these are great examples of cozy games, the genre is not limited to farming. Unboxing cozy, silently telling the story through players unpacking items as the main character moves through different eras of her life. PowerWash Simulator is incredibly relaxing as the player virtually cleans cars and houses using a pressure washer.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is one of the best examples of having a little bit of everything you need for a cozy game. It is accessible and fun, and also creates a relaxing atmosphere that allows players to relax and escape the pressures of real life. It can be a creative challenge for developers to create fun video games that don’t focus on violence, and can often bring unique mechanics and games to the community. Of course, each person will have their own preferences regarding the games they like, whether in cozy game genre or not, and that’s one of the best things about being part of a gaming community.