As the days grow shorter and the pace of the semester picks up, sometimes the best way to recharge is to press pause on real life. Nintendo offers an abundant collection of cozy games to unwind by decorating, building connections and simply explore a new world. These six games are the perfect place to start your cozy gaming adventure.
Cozy Grove
Welcome to Cozy Grove, where you’re a Spirit Scout camping on a haunted, ever-changing island. Just in time for Halloween, your job is to soothe the local ghosts and breathe life back into Cozy Grove! Similar to Animal Crossing, Cozy Grove is synced to real world time, and provides 30-60 minutes of quest-based tasks per day — freeplay is waiting for you once you’re done. Cozy Grove is available on the Nintendo website for $14.99.
Stardew Valley
Despite being one of the more affordable options on this list, Stardew Valley does not lack in storytelling. In this simulation game, you’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot and are in charge of restoring it. Along the way, you’ll build relationships with your neighbors and have the option to marry and start a family. Get a snack, and enjoy the calming farming tasks! Stardew Valley is available on the Nintendo website for $14.99.
Tiny Bookshop
Looking for a peaceful job that won’t leave you feeling burnt out? Tiny Bookshop lets you run your very own seaside bookstore, curating shelves of reads for the locals. You can decorate and customize your cozy shop, unlocking new interactions with the locals as you grow. The only real challenge? Making sure every customer leaves with the perfect book in hand. Tiny Bookshop is available on the Nintendo website for $19.99.
Hello Kitty Island Adventure
Hello Kitty and Friends need your help to restore an abandoned island! This game has no shortage of engaging tasks and candy-colored graphics. Get ready to run around and transform this island into an adorable getaway. Hello Kitty Island Adventure is available on the Nintendo website for $39.99.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing is, arguably, the coziest game of them all. Build an island from scratch and welcome adorable animal villagers to live on it with you. Be careful, if you play too much, Tom Nook might just show up in your nightmares, asking when you plan to pay your Bell debt. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is available on the Nintendo website for $59.99.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Grab your sword — adventure awaits! This is an action-adventure game that is highly acclaimed for its graphics and open-world design. Step into the shoes of Link as he sets out to save the world and Princess Zelda. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is available on the Nintendo website for $59.99.
