Feeling Drained? 3 Calming Video Games for Anxiety and Stress That Might Be the Reset You Need
The most played games nowadays are games that provide players with action, intensity and competitiveness, but not everyone wants a game that makes your heart race. Some people might want the exact opposite. If you are looking for something to play after coming home from work or school after feeling stressed, anxious or just mentally drained, well then you came to the right place. In today’s post I will be highlighting five relaxing games that are perfect for unwinding after a long day.
1. A Short Hike
On those days where you are feeling stressed out, anxious or mentally drained. A short hike may be the perfect game for you to play to help you relax. This game is short, relaxing and has a very meaningful story. In this game you are playing as Claire, a bird that is exploring a quiet mountain where the goal is to reach the top. But how you do it is completely left to the player. There are many different ways to the top of the mountain and that decision is up to you and how you want to progress throughout the game.
A Short Hike also creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere with its artstyle and captivating music. If you want a game that lets you go at your own pace, giving you time to breathe, reflect and just take in the game. This game will be perfect for you.
2. Wanderstop
Wanderstop is another great game that can help you on days you just want to relax. Wanderstop is a cozy game where the gameplay is about managing a tea shop in a magical forest. You will be playing as Alta, who is a former fighter who is seeking to heal from burnout. So the environment of the game will be peaceful where you will be tasked to grow and harvest tea ingredients, crafting beverages, while also chatting with visitors where you will learn each of their stories. Not only is Wanderstop a great game to play when you relax but it helps remind you that sometimes in life doing nothing is okay. It helps offer a place where you can recharge yourself whenever you have a rough day. If you think of a game that creates a relaxing environment not only through its gameplay but also through the music and art style and an impactful story, then this game is for you.
3. Gris
The next game that can help you relieve stress is Gris. This game is a visually beautiful platformer that throughout its story you explore the themes of loss, healing, and emotional growth. You play as Gris who is a young girl navigating a world that changes as she works through grief. The gameplay is simple and forgiving, and there is no combat. The artstyle, orchestral soundtrack and story helps create an atmosphere that is emotionally powerful. This game is perfect for those who are dealing with being overwhelmed and just need something beautiful and quiet, you should look into Gris.
Video games aren’t only designed to challenge you or make you feel tense. Some are made to help when you feel stressed out, anxious or just overwhelmed. The best thing you can do is slow down, breathe, and give your mind a break. Games like A Short Hike, Wanderstop, and Gris will help with that. These games offer meaningful, low pressure experiences that will help relax you. These games help remind us that gaming can be used to relax and relieve any stress you may be feeling at the end of your day. Which game are you going to try? Let me know in the comments, or share your favourite comfort game that helps you decompress.
Are you curious about if video games actually help reduce stress? Read my other blog here.