Sometimes I just want to end my day by switching off my brain.
Ok, a lot of times.
Whether I'm playing on my Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 or PC, the daily grind just slips away when I load up one of these cozy games.
This one should come as no surprise to you given my very-strong-love for Disney.
But now I get to combine Animal Crossing with Disney characters and also enjoy a farming sim? Yes please.
This game works in real time with the addition of a genius feature: you're now able to shift the hours within your game so that if you're only ever to play in the evenings, you don't always have to play in the dark. Brilliant, I tell ya.
It's cute and fun while lacking the 'this feels like a children's game' vibe or simplicity. They also keep the game up-to-date by refreshing the daily shopping, plus weekly special items that do require real life money (however, some of them are so worth it).
They have DLCs available, as well, with new characters and worlds to explore.
If you want one of the best girly games to chill with, look no further.
2. Skyrim
I know what you're thinking... 'this is not a cozy game, Cait.'
Ahh, but my friend, it is.
This game is simple to get the hang of, includes character customization, a slow build-up of skills and abilities (read: no brain overwhelm) and is open world with quests to guide you.
Plus time doesn't matter so the clock isn't racing anyone through.
Oh, and it involves dragons.
And beautiful soundtracks.
And did I mention dragons??
It's been rated one of the best games of all time and I can definitely see why. I don't know why it took me so long to play it, but alas. I have some major time to make up for.
If you ever want a game to make you feel like a total badass, pick up the controller and play Skyrim.
Then let empowerment flow through your magical veins.
3. Sims 4
I went through a serious Sims phase when I was younger and for some reason, just fell away from it.
Until this year. Yes, I started playing Sims 4 in 2025 and I'm never looking back.
The insane amount of character customization makes even the setup of the game fun. I love picking out all the outfits, changing the Sims makeup, and even making sure their manicures match the ensembles. This is what makes this an inherently girly game, if that's the way you choose to play.
And that's what makes the game even better. You have so much control over how you play.
One word of warning: you could start playing at 1pm and then check the clock and it's midnight. Be sure to set a timer if you need to, ya know, get anything else done with your day.
But if you're looking for a game to settle into and relax your brain completely, this is the answer.
You're probably tired of seeing this game on everyone's cozy game lists.
But listen, liiiissstttteeennnn... it's there for a reason.
Even though the game involves tasks and there are days and nights and things you need to do, the freedom still remains.
You choose what you get to do everyday - taking care of your farm, visiting the lil town, diving deep into the caves, or picking out your partner, it's all up to you.
I must admit, I was dubious myself, but then I started playing and I totally got it.
The Stardew Valley music is one of the most peaceful things I've ever heard and I quickly noticed how relaxed I felt.
Worries from the day just seemed to slip away.
5. Nancy Drew
Who's ready for a throwback??
Were you like me and when Her Interactive released the new Nancy Drew game, you basically ran to Target to get it and immediately install it on your computer? Cuz that's exactly what I did.
And you can still play them.
Yep. You heard me. You can get the discs and install them that way (like the good ol' days) or you can now purchase them for download.
There's nothing like a point-and-click game to bring you back.
These games, beyond being wildly nostalgic, are actually so much fun. Great storylines and themes, puzzles that can sometimes mess with your mind (but are so gratifying when you solve), characters to interview to gain clues to the mystery... you will find yourself so drawn in that nothing else can even enter your mind.
I highly suggest Do Not Disturb for these. Thank me later.
Here's a clip from my Twitch streaming days. Clearly you also have to watch for dangers. Don't worry though, you're always reset back where you were. Thankfully for me cuz I killed Nancy more times than I'd like to admit.
If there are other cozy games that you love and think I would too, please let me know! I'm always interested in playing new, fun games.
See you on the socials!
C x
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