If there’s anything I love spending a plethora of my free time doing, it’s having some quality time immersing myself into the world of gaming on my Nintendo Switch. I always used to love gaming when I was younger, dating back to when I had my Nintendo DS and would spend way too much time playing New Super Mario Bros or Cooking Mama.
Since getting a Nintendo Switch to revive my love for gaming, I found myself mostly playing the more popular, big-name games and decided to explore more of the indie options that were available for this platform. So, I’ve compiled a small list of adorable and relaxing indie games that I suggest casual or beginner gamers check out!
While there are times that some gamers like playing action-based gaming, these are perfect for when you want to try something that’s not as intense and can help you unwind. Each of these games is available on nearly every gaming console, so hopefully there are a few on here that will pique your interest and get you picking up your consoles again.
Calico
Ever dreamed of owning a cat café in the middle of an enchanted forest where you can also ride a gigantic cat? Then Calico is for you! In this simulation game, you are the proud new owner of the town’s cat café, which you are tasked to refurbish and run while completing tasks for the other townsfolk and collecting animals.
I love the overall pastel and fantasy aesthetic of Calico, and the graphics help provide a cozy atmosphere while playing. There’s a lot to explore in the game’s universe and I love how customizable it is in terms of creating your avatar and decorating your café. The game’s soundtrack is also incredibly whimsical and totally sets the mood for the game. I am looking forward to future updates on this game and what’s in store for it!
Garden Story
Looking for a super cute game that has a bit of an adventure element to it and is not too intense (and includes lots and lots of plants)? Check out Garden Story! In this super cute pixel-style game, you play as Concord, a small but brave grape who’s destined to save their home, The Grove, from the Rot. You will also get the help of fellow fruit, vegetable, and frog inhabitants by completing quests along the way.
The Grove is incredibly whimsical and a green thumb’s dream — and come on, who doesn’t want to play as a little grape while venturing through this land? A bonus is that you get to dress them up with whatever accessories you gain along the way.
I love the pixel style of the game as it gives off a nostalgic feel to it. As well, the game’s soundtrack matches perfectly with the game’s aesthetic and is especially great as background music for studying. Although this game is still fairly recent as it was released last summer, it’s very engaging and I can’t wait to see how it will develop.
Haven Park
If you’re a fan of “Animal Crossing,” I recommend checking out Haven Park as it has similar gameplay! In this game, you play as a little duck named Flint, who runs his grandmother’s campsite and completes tasks for all of his campers who visit.
First off, the graphics and overall aura of the game are super aesthetically pleasing. Like in Calico, which was previously mentioned, there is much to explore around the campsite and you can customize your campground with lots of accessories and furniture. This game is perfect for those who enjoy camping and spending time outdoors, so it will definitely help transport you there if a camping trip is what you’ve been longing for.
Koi
In Koi, you play as a koi fish whose goal is to find other fish and guide them through other waters in order to save their ecosystem from pollution.
Koi may be an exploration type of game, but it also involves puzzles in order to complete different levels and gain more abilities and perks. I love the graphics in this one as they are very charming and colourful. It almost felt as though I was a fish swimming alongside them myself. Koi is perfect for those who don’t want to play simulators and would rather kick back and put their brain to the test.
Even if you stumbled upon this article and don’t play video games as much yourself, maybe some of these have interested you in trying it for the first time and having your creativity let loose. What’s great about each of these games is that they can help transfer you into another world, even if you happen to be stuck at home for the time being. Be sure to check these out the next time you’re itching to game either by yourself or with friends!