Most relaxing indie game

Important takeaways

  • Some video games aim to relax players in the midst of challenges, offering relaxed, immersive experiences.
  • Cozy games can vary in genres, providing a wide variety of relaxing indie options for different players.
  • Games like White Lavender, Balatro and Townscaper offer relaxation through whimsical environments, soothing aesthetics and uninhibited gameplay.



Video games can provide all kinds of experiences, from the borderline sadistic challenges Dark souls series to pulpy action of first-person shooters such as Halo. Some gamers like to be scared by horror titles, while others enjoy fighting with friends in online party games. But there are also a variety of video games that aim to relax those who play them.

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What is relaxing for some may not be for others; cozy games aren't the only ones that can provide a relaxing game, and some players may find that particular genre tiring, so this topic aims to cover a wide range of experiences to appease anyone looking for a relaxing indie game.


8 White lavender

An accessible soul-like with a whimsical setting

  • Platform(s): PC
  • Released: 2020
  • Developer: Sokpop Collective, Tom van den Boogaart
  • Genre: Souls-like


Fans of Dark souls if you're looking for a more relaxed, colorful experience, look no further White lavender. Developed by the prolific Sokpop Collective (Stackland's, Similand), White lavender is a charming soul-like that trades horrific monsters and gothic architecture for cute insects and vibrant plant life.

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Even if White lavender provides an occasional challenge, it never replaces the direct whimsy of the game. The vibrant colors, charming characters and whimsical environment work together to provide a palpable coziness, enhanced by the game's unique music.

7 Kentucky Route Zero

Atmospheric interactive fiction with a contemplative tone

Released
January 7, 2013

Developer
Cardboard computer

OpenCritic Rating
Powerful

It can be a little strange to call Kentucky Route Zero relaxing. But its walking-sim gameplay, interactive fiction, and magical realism make for a relaxing and completely unique combination. The immersive atmosphere provided by its contemplative music and stylized visuals also help to unwind players, even if the game sometimes aims to disturb.


The tragedy at the heart of Kentucky Route Zero and its struggling characters aren't always the most uplifting experience. However, the moments of hope and emotional vignettes throughout its experimental, surreal narrative can be utterly shattering. Especially the music ticks Kentucky Route Zeros emotional beats, giving the player room to sit in quiet thought.

6 Balatro

A highly addictive deck builder with a soothing tangibility

Strategy

Digital card game

Roguelike

Released
February 20, 2024

Developer
LocalThunk

OpenCritic Rating
Powerful

Balatro is an incredibly accessible deck builder that uses poker hands as a unique twist on the formula. Sports images reminiscent of a casino slot and the addictive game to match, Balatro is an engrossing experience made relaxing by its tactile user interface and satisfying mechanics.


The charming pixel-art, soothing backgrounds and satisfying sound effects all play a role in making Balatro a relaxing experience. Although the inherent frustration of luck is present in the game, Balatro succeeds with its intuitive mechanics and point-attack structure.

5 Cobalt core

A charming, colorful roguelike deckbuilder with an upbeat tone

Roguelike

Digital card game

System

PC-1 super grayscale 8-bit logo

Released
November 8, 2023

Developer
Rocket rat game

OpenCritic Rating
Powerful

Cobalt core is a villainous deck builder with a tactical twist, charging players with command of a starship and its crew, tactically maneuvering their ship to avoid incoming fire and aligning their guns with the enemy. This results in a game loop that is completely unique and often strategic.

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The generosity of the enemy that telegraphs highlights justice in much the same way as Into the Breach. This justice plays an important role in ensuring Cobalt core is a relaxing experience. However, it is mainly the charming pixel art, the positive writing and the beautiful music that offer relaxation and provide an atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind.


4 Bloons TD 6

A satisfying, undemanding experience that's perfect for delineating

Bloons TD 6

System

phone transparent PC-1

Released
June 14, 2018

Developer
Ninja Kiwi

Tower defense games are usually relaxing experiences thanks to their hands-off gameplay. There are lots of decisions to be made and strategies to be devised Bloons TD 6but as with many games in the genre, the conflict itself is a demanding experience.

As a result Bloons TD 6 can be incredibly relaxing, enhanced by the great satisfaction of popping balloons. Bloons TD 6 is also an accessible experience that thrives on its simplicity, ensuring players never get bogged down in complex mechanics.

3 Minami Lane

A minimalist city builder with a charming art style


Minami Lane

System

PC-1

Released
February 28, 2024

Developer
Doot, Blibloop

OpenCritic Rating
Strong

This charming indie title tasks players with developing and managing a single street. The game features a cute and colorful art style, objective-based gameplay, and a laid-back atmosphere that's completely unpretentious.

The goal-based nature of Minami Lane sets it apart from similar cozy games, giving players the satisfaction of a complete game loop. There's not much meat on it Minami Lanes legs, but the few hours of content it provides are coated with a cozy veneer that's consistently relaxing.

2 City builder

A tactile city builder without goals or stakes

City builder

Released
June 30, 2020

Developer
Oskar Stålberg

OpenCritic Rating
Equitable

More of a digital toy than an actual game, City builder have no set goals. This title is all about providing a tactile experience, enhanced by a relaxing color palette, intuitive controls and charming minimalist visuals.


There is something palpably satisfying about plopping down houses City builder. Combined with the calm atmosphere, soothing colors and total lack of pressure, City builder can provide a truly peaceful experience.

1 The long darkness

Intense survival gameplay combined with moments of reprieve

Released
August 1, 2017

Developer
Hinterland Studio

OpenCritic Rating
Strong

The long darkness is a simulation-heavy first-person survival game set in a harsh and unforgiving wilderness. Although it may not sound relaxing on the surface, The long darknesss quiet, calm atmosphere gives players an immersive, often cozy experience.

It can be argued that the challenges involved The long darkness increase the moments of reprieve; the relief you feel when you find shelter after a long hike in the snow is palpable. Combined with the immersive sound design and soothing visuals, The long darkness offers a surprisingly relaxed experience.

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