The holidays aren’t just for lounging and pondering; they’re a prime opportunity to dive into some amazing video games. This season, why not indulge in some cozy games designed for relaxation? They offer the creativity and fun of action-packed titles but leave the stress behind.
When the winter chill nudges you towards exploring your backlog or scouring the Xbox store for fresh picks, you’re in luck. We’ve curated a splendid variety of games, arranged by mood, to cozy up with. So, grab a warm drink in your favorite oversize mug, snuggle up in a comfy blanket, and explore with us.
Fun on the Farm
Farming simulators have long been the cozy gamer’s paradise, offering a break in serene environments where you can cultivate crops, bond with friends, and undertake adventures at your leisure. Whether you crave a peaceful, combat-free zone or a slight challenge, these games have you covered.
Stardew Valley – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Step into the shoes of an eager farmer who inherits a ramshackle plot of land in Stardew Valley. As you carve out a thriving homestead, you’ll improve essential skills like farming, fishing, and combat, and gain access to new items and recipes. The village is full of intriguing locals to befriend or love, and the new 1.6 update promises plenty of fresh content. Tackle this journey solo or with up to eight friends in co-op mode.
Lightyear Frontier – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
If galactic farming is more your style, Lightyear Frontier is an open-world escapade where your customizable mech aids in building an extraterrestrial farm. Uncover the planet’s secrets, enhance the ecosystem, and let up to three friends join you in online multiplayer.
Coral Island – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Trade the hustle and bustle for island serenity in Coral Island. Cultivate a stunning tropical farm, make friends among over 70 unique characters, and engage in activities like bug hunting and treasure diving. It’s a soothing yet engaging experience.
Comfy, Cozy Puzzles
Not into farming? How about unwinding with some charming puzzle games, where you can leisurely explore and solve delightful conundrums wrapped in beautiful art?
Botany Manor – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Put on your gardening gloves as Arabella Greene and resurrect a stately home’s gardens. Immerse yourself in botanical puzzles that reveal more of Arabella’s story with each plant you nurture back to life.
A Little To The Left – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Enjoy the gentle art of tidying in a game that turns organization into entertainment. With over 100 scenarios, from arranging screws to pantry shelves, this is perfect for anyone who enjoys neatness and order.
Strange Horticulture – Available on Cloud, Console
Dive into an enchanting world as a plant shop owner who balances tranquility with mystery, unveiling hidden plant species while uncovering the secrets of the enigmatic town of Undermere.
Light-hearted Adventures
For those seeking more interaction than puzzles but without high-pressure scenarios, these light adventures allow you to explore colorful worlds and have playful quests at your pace.
Lil Gator Game – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Leap into a world of friendship and discovery as a spirited young alligator. With quests around every corner, this cheerful platformer lets you leisurely conquer forests and mountains.
Dungeons of Hinterberg – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Venture through dungeons while interacting with the unique town of Hinterberg. Switch between thrilling dungeon exploration and relaxing time with locals, for a game that’s both exciting and calming.
Little Kitty, Big City – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Wander the urban landscape as a mischievous cat, completing quests and making furry friends. Explore the city’s nooks, cause a little chaos, and have a whimsically feline adventure.
Spiritfarer – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Despite its focus on afterlife farewells, Spiritfarer is a gentle management game where you set sail as Stella. Care for traveling spirits, farm, mine, cook, and explore in this beautifully crafted world.
Jusant – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Embark on a calm climbing journey up a gigantic tower in Jusant. Uncover paths, appreciate stunning vistas, and enjoy a zen-like ascent at your own pace, with no fear of falling.
A Short Hike – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
A Short Hike invites you for a scenic exploration of Hawk Peak Provincial Park. As a small bird, uncover secrets, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy a peaceful trek to the mountain’s peak.
Disney Dreamlight Valley – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Enter a magical world where you befriend Disney and Pixar characters, complete quests, and restore Dreamlight Valley. Personalize your surroundings and get involved in this playful, celebratory adventure.
Cozy Narrative Delights
For those who want an engrossing story coupled with easygoing gameplay, these titles deliver rich narratives in engaging settings.
Chicory – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Delve into an artistic journey in Chicory where you use color to solve puzzles and assist townsfolk, all while unraveling a heartfelt tale in a world filled with personality.
Toem – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
With your camera in hand, explore Toem’s captivating hand-drawn world. Capture moments and solve photographic puzzles in a laid-back journey through charming landscapes.
Harold Halibut – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Experience retro-futuristic, underwater adventures in Harold Halibut. You’ll tackle offbeat problems and meet fascinating creatures in a narrative escapade with a unique art style.
Satisfying Cleanups
If decluttering is your version of peace, these games offer all the gratification of cleaning without ever lifting a finger at home.
PowerWash Simulator – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
PowerWash Simulator invites players to complete a slew of satisfying cleaning tasks, turning filthy environments into spotless scenes, and unearthing tales about the town of Muckingham along the way.
House Flipper – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Take on fixer-uppers in House Flipper, where you refurbish old homes into dream abodes. With boundless creative options, it’s your chance to build and design from scratch.
Unpacking – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Follow a life story through the meditative act of unpacking personal belongings. As you organize spaces over time, each choice tells you more about the character’s life, memories, and journeys.
Nostalgic Cozy Favorites
Sometimes, rekindling joy is about dipping back into favorite games from yesteryear. These remastered classics weave nostalgia with modern sensibilities for the ultimate throwback experience.
Spyro: Reignited Trilogy – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Fly across the Dragon Realms anew with beautiful remakes of the Spyro trilogy. Free dragons, collect treasure, and revel in this vibrant classic brought back to life on Xbox Game Pass.
Crash Bandicoot: N’Sane Trilogy – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Relive the energetic escapades of Crash Bandicoot with fresh visuals and classic charm. Experience his original adventures against Dr. Neo Cortex with a polished twist.
Return to Monkey Island – Available on Cloud, Console, and PC
Step back into the role of Guybrush Threepwood in Return to Monkey Island. This new chapter captures the series’ whimsical spirit, vibrant interactions, and enigmatic puzzles that continue its beloved legacy.
