Cozy Games: More Than Just Cute Pixels
Games with a certain chill vibe – think Animal Crossing, Unpacking, Pokémon, or Stardew Valley – these are known as "cozy games." And being "cozy" isn’t just about sprinkles and cute creatures; it’s a feeling.
It’s less about fast-paced action and more about relaxing gameplay that leaves you feeling good, according to Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne, a PhD student at the University of Quebec at Trois-Rivières who studies these delightful games.
"It’s about the emotional experience," she explains. "A game can become ‘cozy’ because it creates a sense of comfort and warmth for an individual. It becomes a haven."
This sense of warmth was especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Animal Crossing, with its charming world and social elements, provided a much-needed escape from the stress and isolation that many experienced.
"The game helped reduce stress because of its online functionality," Ross-Dionne says. "People could connect, interact, and build new virtual communities."
Imagine four players, each building their own colorful piece of paradise within a shared virtual world. That’s Animal Crossing in a nutshell. It focuses on cooperation, community building, and getting lost in a world of cute critters and peaceful routines.
This emphasis on positive interactions and avoidance of competition makes Animal Crossing a prime example of a "cozy game."
Luckily, the world of gaming is expanding beyond this single example. The scientific community is increasingly recognizing the benefits of gaming in general – from enhancing social skills and cognitive functions to even alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.
One study published in the journal JMIR Serious Games found that video games can positively impact mental health, effectively treating symptoms of both depression and anxiety.
Even the United Nations has caught onto the trend. A 2023 study including over 13,000 players across 12 countries, including Canada, revealed that the majority of participants used video games to manage stress, combat loneliness, and cope with daily challenges.
While some research suggests video games may have no direct impact on mental health, it’s when gaming becomes excessive – clocking in more than 10 hours each week – that potential negative impacts might arise.
So, whether you’re looking for a way to unwind, connect with others, or simply escape for a while, the world of "cozy games" offers a warm and welcoming haven for everyone.
Interview with Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Exploring the Cozy Game Phenomenon
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Laurei! Thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right into it. What exactly defines a “cozy game”?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Thank you for having me! Cozy games are more than just games with cute graphics—they create an emotional experience that provides a sense of comfort and warmth. Titles like Animal Crossing, Unpacking, and Stardew Valley are characterized by relaxing gameplay, where players can unwind and feel good. It’s about the atmosphere and the feelings these games evoke rather than fast-paced action.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned that cozy games create a haven for players. Can you elaborate on how they achieve this?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Absolutely! Cozy games typically offer environments where players can engage at their own pace. They often include elements like nurturing relationships, completing tasks that provide satisfaction without high stakes, and immersing oneself in beautiful, calming worlds. This kind of gameplay allows players to escape reality and create their own comforting spaces, which is incredibly appealing, especially during stressful times.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of stressful times, how did cozy games play a role during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: The pandemic was a challenging period for many, marked by isolation and uncertainty. Animal Crossing, for example, became a massive hit because it provided a charming alternative to the chaos outside. It allowed players to connect with friends virtually, enabling them to build new communities. The game helped reduce stress and offered a comforting routine amidst the unpredictability of the world. This sense of social interaction was crucial for many during lockdowns.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like these games are not just entertainment but also serve a deeper emotional purpose. How do you see their impact on mental health?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Yes, the emotional impact is significant. The calming nature of cozy games can be therapeutic. They can help reduce anxiety and provide a safe space for expression and creativity. Engaging in these games can lead to feelings of achievement and contentment, which positively influences mental health.
Time.news Editor: That’s an important perspective! As someone who studies these games, have you noticed any trends or shifts in their popularity over time?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Definitely. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the popularity of cozy games, partly driven by a growing audience seeking solace in gaming. The pandemic accelerated this trend, but even before that, we saw a rise in indie games that focus on relaxation and social connection. It’s clear that more people are gravitating towards experiences that prioritize emotional well-being over competitive gameplay.
Time.news Editor: Given your insights, what would you say to someone who hasn’t yet explored the genre of cozy games?
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: I’d encourage them to give it a try! Cozy games are incredibly diverse and cater to various interests—from gardening in Stardew Valley to solving puzzles in Unpacking. They offer a chance for players to relax and recharge, and you might find a newfound passion in these gentle, yet engaging experiences.
Time.news Editor: Thanks for sharing your valuable insights, Laurei! It’s clear that cozy games are more than just cute pixels; they offer meaningful emotional experiences that resonate with players on a deep level.
Laurei Mei Ross-Dionne: Thank you! It’s a pleasure discussing this enriching and joyful aspect of gaming.