Exploring the addiction of cosy games

As the autumn leaves start to change all around us, it feels like the perfect time to take advantage of the first university term and let ourselves relax into a comforting playthrough of a cosy autumnal game.  

Even if you are not a fan of the ‘cosy game’ genre, it’s hard to deny its popularity. Such games include the resurgence of the Animal Crossing franchise (which felt like such a pull back into my own childhood whenever I saw someone playing it), the numerous puzzle games that explore environmental storytelling, and all of the task-based simulator games that get you hooked with each achievement.  

But what exactly is it about these games that makes us want to keep playing them? What this genre of cosy games lacks in the adrenaline-pumping vein (more typical of horror and action-adventure video games), it makes up for tenfold in other, more soothing aspects of the gameplay.  

Many of these cosy, life-like simulator games allow players to create their own little world, without the restrictive nature of a prescribed storyline to follow – an element which is perfect for a busy lifestyle, as the game can be picked up at any time without any risk of forgetting previous integral lore points and plot twists.  

But just because these games may not have an exact plot line that every player must follow, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t the option to explore scripted events. Stardew Valley, for example, boasts many town events and even has a possibility to reach a main end goal and “complete” the game, though not doing so will not affect your gameplay nor the enjoyment of it!  

A simplistic, sweet escape from the bustle of everyday life

Animal Crossing, a game which has a similar air of rural pursuits to Stardew Valley, has less of a plot to follow and is more focused on the social simulation of inhabiting an island with animal neighbours. This gameplay can certainly contribute to the addictive nature of cosy games, as it doesn’t pressure the player to complete quests, allowing the experience to be an entirely calming one – a simplistic, sweet escape from the bustle of everyday life.  

The popularity of Animal Crossing, especially, can be primarily attributed to its firm grounding in many people’s childhoods. I can distinctly remember playing Animal Crossing for the first time on my brand-new DS – and this nostalgic game has not only managed to retain its timelessness but also grow up alongside its original players and offer a source of comfort far beyond that of the regular cosy game.  

It is a form of joyful escape that isn’t mirrored in action-based games

Other cosy games may not necessarily be plot-driven at all, without even a side quest that hints at a potential storyline, but these games prove to be just as popular as those that are story-based. This popularity does truly lie in the relaxing and calming nature of a lot of these cosy games – it is a form of joyful escape that isn’t mirrored in action-based games, feeding us happiness and tranquillity rather than heart-racing, thrilling scenes.  

For example, homey puzzle games, like Unpacking, are enjoyed by many players, as the mechanics aren’t so simplistic that they may become repetitive and boring, but instead invite the use of strategic thinking. Simultaneously, players build an entire world through the game’s beautiful environmental storytelling.  

After speaking to friends and family who particularly enjoy playing cosy games, more than just the gameplay keeps people returning to these fan favourites. The cosy game genre perfectly encapsulates the comfort necessary for a wind-down from a stressful day, with its whimsical character design, gentle soundtracks, and seasonal aesthetics. The repetitive tasks and improvable skills mean that the player is provided with dopamine-boosting activities, contributing to both the stress-relieving and addictive nature of the games.  

Finally, the appeal of the cosy genre also lies in the fanbases that come along with popular video games. The sense of community and connection that is found within online forums dedicated to the game provides wholesome interactions between fellow fans, with useful insights into the gameplay being shared with one another.