The rise of 'cosy gaming' and exactly why you should try it.

When you think about video games, there are a few common tropes that come to mind: adrenaline-pumping battles, nightmarishly hard boss fights, and action-packed warfare.

But outside the stereotypical view of video games, a new trend has emerged that promises a stress-free gaming experience.

Cosy gaming, as it has been dubbed on TikTok and among online communities, is a type of gameplay that offers escapism, relaxation, and a general sense of comfort.

Unlike other video game genres, cosy games set a leisurely pace where the stakes are typically lower and rarely involve intense combat.

They primarily feature wholesome gameplay with vibrant storylines, soothing music, and aesthetically pleasing settings. 

Sounds like heaven, right?

As cosy gaming continues to grow in popularity, here are the three games you need to try right now.

Image: Supplied. 

Pikmin 4

Image: Nintendo. 

Releasing on July 21, Pikmin 4 is the latest arrival in Nintendo’s slew of cosy games.

In this new game, you can personalise your own explorer whose mission is to locate and rescue the Rescue Corps. They've crashed landed on an uncharted planet, and it's up to you to find them and bring them back safely. 

While on the far away planet, you'll meet the small, plant-like creatures known as Pikmin.

Your task? To grow, gather, and guide the Pikmin to tackle tasks, defeat enemies, search for treasure, and rescue the castaways. 

Although Pikmin 4 is the fourth installation in the series, the game is newcomer friendly, meaning players don’t have to be familiar with previous instalments of the game to join the fun.

The family-friendly game also has an optional two-player co-op mode, meaning you can play with a friend. (Multiplayer requires one compatible controller per player. Additional controllers, which are sold separately, may be required.)

The new instalment also features the addition of the adorable Oatchi, a space dog who will help you and the Pikmin along the way, carrying you and your Pikmin around on his back, smashing through objects and even fighting for you. 

With cutesy characters and the ability to collect fun items and treasures, Pikmin 4 is a must have for fans of relaxing games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Image: Nintendo. 

In 2020 when Animal Crossing: New Horizons was released, it exploded, drawing attention to the growing trend of stress-free gaming.

For those not familiar with the game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons lets you start a new life on a deserted island after purchasing a getaway package from Tom Nook.

While users start the game with just a tent and a NookPhone, the island is chock-full of resources that can be crafted into everything from tools and knick-knacks to furniture and bridges, allowing players to build their very own island community from scratch.

Adding to the relaxing elements of the game, players can also fish, catch insects, hunt for fossils, plant flowers and fruit trees, and get to know other island residents.

The game also reflects the time of day as well as the seasons in your hemisphere, meaning players can expect to see special seasonal items throughout the year.

On top of that, perhaps one of the best elements of the game is the ability to play with friends and family.

You can play with up to seven other people via local wireless (requiring one compatible console and one copy of the game per player) or online to share gifts, take pictures, and visit each other’s islands. Additional controllers may be required (sold separately). 

If you’re looking for a game that offers a creative outlet and fun with friends, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect fit.

Ring Fit Adventure

Image: Nintendo. 

Ring Fit Adventure is the game that makes getting active at home endlessly fun.

The Nintendo Switch game, which comes with a Ring-Con (which looks like a pilates magic circle) and a leg-strap, uses real-life, full-body exercises to defeat a body building dragon named Drageaux. (Yes, really.) 

In Adventure mode, players can defeat Drageaux and his minions with attacks based on over 60 real-world exercises (like squats and overhead shoulder presses) as they travel through more than 100 levels in over 20 worlds.

Between fights, users can also participate in fun side missions or even visit the General Store to get new workout clothes.

Ring Fit Adventure is the perfect entry point for those wanting to start casually exercising, or those just looking for a fun way to unwind at home.

Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, Ring Fit Adventure is a guided game, meaning you’ll feel supported along the way as you improve your exercise techniques.

The Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controller’s IR Motion Camera also means that you’ll be able to track your performance – including your pulse rate – while playing.

And the best part of all? You’ll be so busy trying to defeat Drageaux that you won’t even realise that you’re working up a sweat at the same time. 

So. Good.

Looking to unwind? Checkout Nintendo Switch for stress-free games like Pikmin 4, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Ring Fit Adventure. 

Online play requires paid online membership, and a paid membership to Nintendo Switch Online is required to use the Save Data Cloud. Games and system sold separately.

Feature Image: Mamamia/TikTok/@mylittlelakes/@cassiedakota.