The 5 Most Relaxing Video Games to play in 2023

In the fast-paced and often hectic world we live in, finding moments of relaxation and tranquility is essential for our well-being. Video games, once considered a source of adrenaline-pumping action, have now evolved to offer serene and calming experiences. Whether you’re seeking a digital escape from everyday stress or simply looking to unwind after a long day, these soothing video games provide the perfect oasis of relaxation.

As we embrace the new year, 2023 brings a delightful array of video games that are designed to whisk you away to serene virtual landscapes, captivating soundscapes, and immersive narratives that encourage mindfulness and peace. From enchanting exploration games to meditative puzzlers, these titles offer a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Number 1. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a single-player open-ended farming simulation role-playing video game developed by Eric Barone (also known as ConcernedApe) and published by Chucklefish. The game was initially released for Microsoft Windows in February 2016 and has since been ported to macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.

In Stardew Valley, players take control of a character who inherits their grandfather’s farm in Stardew Valley. The player can choose to focus on farming, mining, fishing, foraging, crafting, raising animals, or exploring the local caves. Players can also interact with the townsfolk of Pelican Town, befriend them, and eventually marry one of them.

The game has been praised for its addictive gameplay, charming art style, and relaxing atmosphere. It has also been a commercial success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide.

Here are some of the things you can do in Stardew Valley:

Plant crops and harvest them for profit.
Raise animals, such as cows, chickens, and pigs.
Mine for ores and gems.
Fish in the local river or ocean.
Forage for wild plants and mushrooms.
Craft items using your skills.
Decorate your farm and home.
Complete quests for the townsfolk.
Explore the local caves.
Find hidden items and secrets.
Marry a townsperson and start a family.

Stardew Valley is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great game to relax and unwind with, and it can also be a lot of fun to play with friends. If you are looking for a game that is both relaxing and challenging, then Stardew Valley is a great choice.

Number 2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a social simulation game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. It is the fifth main entry in the Animal Crossing series and was released worldwide on March 20, 2020.

In New Horizons, players create a character and move to a deserted island. The player can customize their character, home, and island, and can interact with the island’s animal residents. Players can also fish, collect bugs, dig for fossils, and craft items. The game’s time of day and seasons match real life, and players can participate in seasonal events.

New Horizons received critical acclaim, with praise for its relaxing gameplay, charming art style, and customizable features. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 33 million copies worldwide.

Here are some of the things you can do in Animal Crossing: New Horizons:

Customize your character, home, and island.
Collect bugs, fish, and fossils.
Craft items.
Participate in seasonal events.
Visit other players’ islands.
Play mini-games.
Decorate your island.
Make friends with the animal residents.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great game to relax and unwind with, and it can also be a lot of fun to play with friends. If you are looking for a game that is both relaxing and creative, then Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a great choice.

Number 3. A Short Hike

A Short Hike is an indie adventure game developed by Adam Robinson-Yu. It was released for Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux in July 2019, and for Nintendo Switch in August 2020.

In A Short Hike, players take control of Claire, a bird who is spending her summer vacation with her aunt in the fictional Hawk Peak Provincial Park. The goal of the game is to reach the summit of Hawk Peak, but players are free to explore the park at their own pace and do whatever they want.

A Short Hike is a relaxing and charming game that is full of things to do. Players can fish, swim, climb, collect hidden items, and interact with the other animals in the park. The game also has a great soundtrack that perfectly complements the laid-back atmosphere.

A Short Hike is a short game, but it is a very well-made one. It is a great game to play if you are looking for something relaxing and enjoyable.

Here are some of the things you can do in A Short Hike:

Explore the park at your own pace.
Climb to the summit of Hawk Peak.
Fish in the lake.
Swim in the river.
Collect hidden items.
Interact with the other animals in the park.
Play mini-games.
Listen to the great soundtrack.

A Short Hike is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great game to relax and unwind with, and it can also be a lot of fun to play with friends. If you are looking for a game that is both relaxing and charming, then A Short Hike is a great choice.

Number 4. The Ramp

The Ramp is a skateboarding game developed by Paul Schnepf and published by hyperparadise. It was released for Microsoft Windows and macOS in August 2021, and for Android and iOS in November 2021.

The Ramp is a minimalist skateboarding game that focuses on the core gameplay of pumping and performing tricks. There are no scores, missions, or unlocks, just you and the ramp. The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the controls are simple and intuitive.

The Ramp is a great game for skateboarding fans who want to experience the feeling of skating a perfect ramp. The physics are realistic, and the controls are responsive. The game is also very challenging, and it takes a lot of practice to master the tricks.

Here are some of the things you can do in The Ramp:

Pump the ramp to gain speed.
Perform tricks, such as ollies, kickflips, and heelflips.
Chain tricks together to create combos.
Compete against your friends in online multiplayer.
Unlock new ramps and challenges.

The Ramp is a great game for skateboarding fans of all skill levels. It is a challenging and rewarding game that will keep you coming back for more.

Here are some of the things that make The Ramp a unique and enjoyable game:

The minimalist gameplay focuses on the core experience of skateboarding.
The realistic physics and responsive controls make it feel like you are really skating.
The challenging gameplay will keep you coming back for more.
The online multiplayer is a great way to compete against your friends.

If you are a fan of skateboarding or just looking for a challenging and enjoyable game, then The Ramp is a great choice.

Number 5. PowerWash Simulator

PowerWash Simulator is a simulation game developed by FuturLab and published by Square Enix Collective. It was released for early access on Steam on May 19, 2021, and was fully released for Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on July 14, 2022.

In PowerWash Simulator, players take control of a power washer and use it to clean various objects and environments. The game features a variety of power washers to choose from, as well as a variety of attachments that can be used to clean different surfaces. Players can also customize their power washer with different colors and patterns.

The goal of the game is to clean everything in sight to a sparkling finish. Players can take on a variety of jobs, such as cleaning cars, houses, and even the Statue of Liberty. The game also features a free roam mode where players can clean whatever they want.

PowerWash Simulator is a relaxing and satisfying game that is perfect for people who enjoy cleaning. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay is sure to keep players coming back for more.

Here are some of the things you can do in PowerWash Simulator: