Cosy video games are on an unstoppable rise. Will they unleash a darker side?
Briefly

In 2017, Project Horseshoe defined coziness in video games as comprising safety, abundance, and softness. Cozy games feature low-risk scenarios and focus on player relaxation. An example is Unpacking, a puzzle game with no timers or penalties, emphasizing storytelling through a soothing experience. The cozy gaming genre grew significantly alongside the Nintendo Switch's launch, which encouraged casual gaming. In 2019, Wholesome Games was created to highlight games that fit this cozy definition, fostering a community centered around cute and non-threatening gaming experiences.
Coziness in games encompasses three core aspects: safety, abundance, and softness. These elements create a non-threatening, pleasurable player experience without high-risk scenarios.
Unpacking exemplifies the cozy game genre with its narrative focus on unpacking items without the pressure of timers or punitive mechanics, supported by its charming art style.
The launch of the Nintendo Switch marked a pivotal moment for cozy games in 2017, coinciding with the genre's significant growth and increasing player interest.
Wholesome Games emerged to spotlight non-threatening, cute games, becoming a community hub for players seeking pleasant gaming experiences that emphasize comfort and happiness.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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