Nowadays I find a lot of games feel like too much work and/or anxiety when I just want to relax for like, 30 minutes to an hour after a long day. On the other hand, the games specifically designed to help you unwind just feel boring imo.
In the past I’ve felt like Outer Wilds scratched this itch, cause the whole experience was engaging but generally relaxed. There was a mystery that kept me hooked and the exploration and movement was fun in and of itself. I also felt like Subnautica filled this role since it was very much at my own pace, with anxiety producing portions which could for the most part be avoided or minimized, and also there was a clear objective to fulfill, get off the planet.
So what games do you play when you just wanna relax?
I know for some people it’s super relaxing. I tried playing the free tetris on the official website recently, was into it until it started getting fast. I am not much of a quick reflex gamer
It helps me focus my mind into one thing. With just some minutes, all the noise on my head goes away, and even when I lose, the frustration does not build up, all there is on my mind is the current game.
The only con is that if I play to much I start seeing blocks falling when I try to fall sleep.
It might not be for you, but it got me at a young age and you do get used to it. There really is a “flow state” to Tetris, where it can feel like you’re just noticing the pieces and they’re almost moving on their own.