Five cozy games for winding down after a long day

Not every game needs to test your reflexes. Some nights I just want something soft and slow, and mobile is full of quiet little gems if you know where to look. Cozy games are having a moment, and I am here for it.

Lantern Hollow leads my list. It is an exploration adventure with hand-drawn art and gentle puzzles, and it never once made me feel rushed. Playing it feels like reading a bedtime story you get to steer.

The best cozy games share a few traits: no fail states, warm sound design, and a pace that lets you breathe. They are also perfect for playing in short bits, since you can stop whenever without losing progress.

If your feed is nothing but competitive shooters and tycoons, try slowing down for an evening. A cozy game is a surprisingly good way to reset your brain.