Yaaaaaaaaaaaaawn. I hear you. I’m wiped, too.
Burnout is real, and many modern Americans’ incessant doomscrolling and bed-rotting routines sometimes feel like the only escape from hectic schedules and continued personal and professional obligations.
Enter video games. Yes, really. Like morning crossword puzzles or mindfulness practices, video games can also be a promising stress-reliever.
Whether a fan of head-scratching puzzles, rhythm-based games, super-casual simulators, or anything in between, these 10 titles are sure to help ease your mind regardless of your experience level.
Lushfoil Photography Sim
Steam Price: $14.99
Genre: Simulator; Nature
Last month, developer Matt Newell and games publisher Annapurna Interactive (Stray, Outer Wilds) released Lushfoil Photography Sim, a soothing and tranquil photography simulator that puts would-be nature photogs in stunning digital landscapes. Peruse your environment, tinker with camera settings, and capture S-tier shots all while surrounded by an ambient soundtrack.
So to Speak
Steam Price: $17.99
Genre: Education; Puzzle
I was fortunate enough to meet with developer-publisher Erik Andersen, the mastermind behind So to Speak, at PAX East 2024. Andersen said he utilized context clues and memorization to help him navigate Japan, a years-long experience he channeled into a quirky and educational puzzle game. Find your way through a 2D Japan, relying only on nearby signage, past knowledge, and elementary-level communication to get from A to B.
WEBFISHING
Steam Price: $4.99
Genre: Fishing; Casual
Did you get your hands on a copy of Animal Crossing during lockdown? Well, WEBFISHING might be up your alley. Using your charming and customizable animal avatar, catch fish, communicate with friends, upgrade gear, peddle wares, embark on side quests, and earn in-game cash. Hang out with friends in an all-new way while enjoying low-stress, low-stakes gameplay.
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Wilmot Works It Out
Steam Price: $14.99
Genre: Puzzle; Funny
Wilmot Works It Out is technically a sequel, but you need no past experience with its predecessor (Wilmot’s Warehouse, released in 2019) to partake. In this puzzle game, players must assemble jigsaw puzzle-like images and incorporate them into their in-game home’s decor. Wilmot Works It Out is equal parts satisfying and soothing.
House Flipper 2
Steam Price: $25.99
Genre: Simulator; Building
Step aside, Property Brothers. In House Flipper 2, you’re the one in charge. Buy, repair, reconstruct, build from scratch, and ultimately resell properties just how you like for in-game cash. Got a big job ahead of you? Try co-op mode, where you and up to three other players can tackle projects as a team.
Strings Theory
Steam Price: $14.99
Genre: Puzzle; Platformer
I enjoy this one on a molecular level (literally). In Strings Theory, players take on the role of string-like subatomic particles, platforming through abstract stages that are full of twists. Swap characters wisely in order to pass tricky obstacles, or invite two other friends to help you with Strings Theory‘s local co-op.
I also suggest headphones for this one. The serene, ethereal soundtrack is ASMR in and of itself.
Snacko
Steam Price: $18.74
Genre: Family friendly; Building
Chill out with Snacko, a cutesy and Steam Deck-friendly exploration game. The game’s protagonists, two childhood friends, were pushed out of Snacko Island thanks to skyrocketing living costs. The pair set out to turn things around and must explore, gather, and rebuild their quaint little town into an all-new home.
Lil Gator Game
Steam Price: $9.99
Genre: Wholesome; Adventure
3D platformer Lil Gator Game is both painfully cute and surprisingly emotional. The imaginative young protagonist just wants to get their big sister’s attention, but they end up on the adventure of a lifetime. Meet new friends, craft helpful tools, earn “money,” and even take flight in this Zelda-inspired title that’ll truly make you feel like a kid again.
Good Pizza, Great Pizza
Steam Price: $6.99
Genre: Restaurant simulator; Casual
Set a timer for this one. No, not for the pizza, but because Good Pizza, Great Pizza‘s addictive and satisfying pie assembly can eat up all your free time if you let it. Set up your new ‘za shop, customize dining room interior, expand your business, handle customer interactions, sling pristine made-to-order pies, and outdo your no-so-neighborly competitor next door, Alicante.
Love, Ghostie
Steam Price: $14.99
Genre: Matchmaking simulator; Cute
Eek, a ghost! Oh, it’s just you.
In Love, Ghostie, become an adorable lil’ spirit and “haunt” a sprawling manor’s cutesy inhabitants. Put your nose where it doesn’t belong (do ghosts have noses?) by nurturing platonic and romantic relationships among tenants. Sneak into rooms, learn residents’ interests, leave gifts, watch dates from afar, and hone your matchmaking skills.
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A lifelong gamer raised on classic titles like Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, and Croc, Stephanie brings her expertise of gaming and pop culture to deliver unique, refreshing views on the world of video games, complete with references to absurd and obscure media.
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