Prefer a snug gaming experience, yet displeased that an increasing number of games are labeled cozy merely because it's fashionable in the present moment

Prefer a snug gaming experience, yet displeased that an increasing number of games are labeled cozy merely because it's fashionable in the present moment

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In the ever-evolving world of video games, a new term has been gaining traction: "cosy games." However, as Kara Phillips, an evergreen writer known for her love of obscure indie games, points out, the label is being misused more often than not.

Phillips, who can often be found immersed in games like Ark: Survival Evolved or Tekken, or even birdwatching simulators, has spent thousands of hours cultivating crops, rebuilding communities, and engaging in various activities in these games. Yet, she believes that the "cosy" label is being exploited by developers to pique interest and appeal to a specific audience, even if the game is half-baked.

The term "cosy" is not a genre but a feeling of comfort and personal connection. Cosy games tend to have low-stakes content, no violence, and can be played at a leisurely pace. They emphasize a sense of community, slow-paced progression, and a comforting, shared experience between player and developer.

Examples of recently launched cosy games include Hello Kitty Island Adventure, Fantasy Life, and Tales of the Shire. While these games may offer a relaxing experience, they often lack the depth and heart that classic cosy games possess.

The format of some wholesome games is prioritizing looks and audio over the actual gaming experience. Stardew Valley, a pioneer in the wholesome gaming space, is a prime example of a game that strikes the perfect balance between aesthetics and gameplay. It has inspired a flurry of farming, life, and mundane task simulators to be released.

However, the rapid popularity of the label and inconsistent use in marketing have sparked controversies about its meaning and authenticity in the current gaming landscape. Some games, like Leaf Blower Co, Cash Cleaner Simulator, and Chillin' By The Fire, are being marketed as "cosy" to appeal to the current trend, despite lacking the heart and depth of classic cosy games.

Not every game needs to follow the formula of characters, goals, and life revitalization to be considered a "cosy game." The user, who has been playing relaxing simulator games since starting gaming with Animal Crossing: Wild World, believes that the definition of "cosy" in gaming is likely to be a topic of debate for many years.

If you're new to gaming, a handful of bad games could potentially dissuade you from continuing. It's essential to sift through the bland cosy games to find the good ones. Despite the controversies, there's no denying that cosy games offer a unique, comforting, and personal gaming experience that many players crave.

Join the conversation this week as Kara Phillips airs her grievances about gaming and computing in 2025. More can be found at the Gripes Week hub.

1. Kara Phillips, an experienced writer and avid gamer, has expressed concerns about the misuse of the term "cosy games" by developers.
2. Phillips, who enjoys a variety of games from Ark: Survival Evolved to birdwatching simulators, believes that the label is being exploited to pique interest, even when the game is half-baked.
3. The term "cosy" describes a feeling of comfort and personal connection, often found in games with low-stakes content, no violence, and a slow-paced progression.
4. Examples of recently launched cosy games include Hello Kitty Island Adventure, Fantasy Life, and Tales of the Shire, yet these games may not possess the depth and heart of classic cosy games.
5. The format of some wholesome games is prioritizing looks and audio over the actual gaming experience, while games like Stardew Valley strike a balance between aesthetics and gameplay.
6. The rapid popularity of the "cosy games" label has sparked controversies, with some games like Leaf Blower Co, Cash Cleaner Simulator, and Chillin' By The Fire being marketed as "cosy" despite lacking the heart and depth of classic cosy games.
7. Not every game should adhere to the formula of characters, goals, and life revitalization to be considered a "cosy game," according to a seasoned gamer who has been playing relaxing simulator games since Animal Crossing: Wild World.
8. Despite the ongoing debate about the meaning and authenticity of "cosy games," many players continue to seek out these titles for their unique, comforting, and personal gaming experience.

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