As we get older, not only do the type of games that we like to play change over time, but the reasons that we play games can change, too. While you might not necessarily lose that youthful urge to explore your imagination through gaming, nor to enjoy thrilling mechanics and demanding challenges, a lot of people game to deal with stress, as well, particularly work stress. Here, we’re going to look at some of the types of games best for doing that.
The overarching meta-genre of games often called “cozy games” or “comfy games” spans across many specific genres and mechanic types, but there are few that feel quite so effective at helping you truly relax and improve your mood than farming games like Stardew Valley. Indeed, though it might sound like doing extra work, there’s no denying that these games do have the power to lift your mood, and the act of following the basic schedules they lay out for you can help you turn your mind off a little if you feel like you’ve been having a particularly challenging day.
If your work consists of a lot of mental drudgery, then it might feel like you need something to blow away the cobwebs. There are all types of puzzle games that can help you do that, whether it’s the problem-solving variety and charm of the Layton games, or you prefer something a little more structured and immediately challenging like a game of sudoku online. Whatever you go for, puzzles can help you switch your brain back on, allowing you to be more engaged for the rest of the day, instead of staying in a work-induced stupor.
From Project Diva to Theatrhythm, Muse Dash and all the various piano-styled games out there, there’s no shortage of variety in the rhythm gaming genre to help you find the particular way to follow the beat that you like. Rhythm games are great for when you don’t want to slow things down after work, but want to put a little extra energy into your day. Plus, when playing rhythm games, you’re also listening to music, which is a proven mood booster, helping you release the endorphins that can help you get the emotional state of the day back in balance.
On the other hand, some people aren’t looking to slow things down, they need a little something to perk them up if the workday has felt particularly long or monotonous. The FPSes that allow for a slightly more casual and less-aim skill-dependent approach, such as Overwatch, can be perfect for just that. There’s nothing like queueing up to blast some enemies away to help you get the hit of dopamine that you might need after a boring day.
How you like to unplug might well depend on the type of person that you are, as well as the devices you have at hand. If you’re looking to destress after work, however, starting with the games above can be the solution you need.
