Released in 2017, Horizon Zero Dawn was one of the first action RPGs I was truly interested in on the PS4. Everything from the visuals and graphics to the unique and complex story had me hooked. Needless to say, from the first 10 minutes of the game to the very end I was completely immersed in the diverse, post-apocalyptic world and thoroughly enjoyed the gameplay experience.
In this in-depth review, we will further explore what makes Horizon Zero Dawn such a captivating PS4 game through a breakdown of relevant and tailored metrics. This isn’t another critic review; this is from one gamer to another.
Graphics and Visuals: Outstanding 5 /icon:hot/rating:5
Open World Design: Great 4 /icon:hot/rating:4
Quests and Side Content: Average 3 /icon:hot/rating:3
Combat Mechanics: Average 3 /icon:hot/rating:3
Sound and Music: Outstanding 5 /icon:hot/rating:5
Replay value: Average 3 /icon:hot/rating:3
Game Features
Open World Exploration
Dynamic Day-Night Cycle
Bow and Arrow Combat
Crafting and Resources
Skill Tree
Stealth and Tactical Gameplay
Dialogue Choices
The Frozen Wilds Expansion (DLC)
Story /rating:5
Horizon Zero Dawn follows Aloy, a young yet skilled outcast hunter, as she attempts to uncover the truth about the Old Ones and what caused the fall of civilization as we know it. In a post-apocalyptic world teeming with mechanized creatures, Aloy sets out to discover the secrets of her own past, clearing corruption zones and encountering varied and diverse tribes as her story progresses.
Horizon Zero Dawn’s storyline is truly what makes this game so spectacular, with a world flowing with lore, history, and unique and varied cultures. The regressed tribes juxtaposes with more advance technology such as holographic recordings and datapoints, allowing the world to feel both familiar and mysterious. Undeniably, this game is long and, without total attention to the story, it can be easy to get a little lost with the complex lore. However, with a strong mix of emotional, thrilling and heart-warming interactions and cutscenes, Horizon Zero Dawn is a wonderfully captivating story.
Gameplay /rating:4
The gameplay in Horizon Zero Dawn offers a satisfying blend of action and RPG elements. It excels in dynamic combat, but some repetitive tasks may hinder the overall experience. The game offers meaningful choices throughout that impact the story’s direction and outcome, which provides personal investment in the narrative. You are often faced with moral dilemmas, with your decisions shaping Aloy’s relationships with both other characters and the world around her.
Character Development /rating:4
Aloy’s character development is well done, but other characters could benefit from more depth as the game progresses. Despite this, the main protagonist herself is a charming and well-developed character. Her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and determination is central to the story. The game also introduces a cast of diverse and memorable characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. The interactions between characters, as well as the choices you make throughout their dialogue, significantly impact the narrative’s progression. The skill tree feature is well-implemented and enjoyable to utilise. The appearance of Aloy is set, meaning there is limited customisation, however there is a variety of armour and outfits that can be chosen from, all of which offer distinct styles and features.
Graphics and Visuals /rating:5
Horizon Zero Dawn is truly a visual masterpiece. The game boasts stunning graphics, with detailed landscapes and beautifully designed robotic creatures. From breathtaking towns and landscapes to emotive and detailed character graphics, Horizon Zero Dawn is as much a treat for the eye as it is the mind, if not more so.
Open World Design/rating:4
The open world is vast and filled with interesting places to explore, but some areas can feel a bit empty of both other characters and machines. Despite this, the game offers a good balance between freedom and guidance. Indeed, the game’s world-building is a standout feature. The world is teeming with lore, history, and unique cultures, each with its own beliefs and customs. The ruins of the past civilization, along with holographic recordings and datapoints, add depth and intrigue to the environment. The juxtaposition of primitive tribes and advanced technology is a constant source of fascination, making the world feel both familiar and mysterious.
Quests and side content/rating:3
The game offers a wide variety of quests and side activities, but some can feel repetitive, and they can be hard to find (don’t bother looking in Meridian). Due to the vast nature of the world, some side quests can be easy to miss but are nonetheless worthwhile if you are interested in world building and character development. Some side quests, such as ‘Hunter’s Blind’, reward you with items that can’t be bought from merchants so exploration of side quests and errands throughout the game would be key here.
Combat Mechanics /rating:3
The combat in Horizon Zero Dawn is a real highlight, with a wide array of weapons and tactics to select from. With a selection of weapons ranging from bows of different types, spears, and ropecasters, it’s truly a joy to customise the combat to your own preference. Furthermore, the strategic element of targeting specific components on different machines is revolutionary, as well at the ability to override machines to either ride or fight for you. Whilst there is no target locking mechanism during combat, which can take some patience in getting used to, the slow motion skill counteracts this and allows you to truly hone your aim throughout the game.
Sound and Music /rating:5
The game’s sound design and music truly enhance the overall experience and immersion, in particular the tribal and mechanical soundscapes are particularly memorable. Furthermore, as you battle and face challenges, the music grows in intensity, further adding to the tension and thrill as you play.
Replay value /rating:3
While there may be incentive to replay for different story choices and character builds, additional endgame content or a deeper New Game+ experience could improve replay value of the game. Aloy is often given the choice to respond to narrative with a fist, brain or heart and but none of these truly impact the game direction in a drastic sense and certainly not in a way that warrants a replay. Furthermore, coming in at a minimum of 55 hours with side quests and errands, for some the game might simply be too long to play again. Ultimately, the charm of Horizon Zero Dawn is in its mystery, discovering how civilisation has fallen to such an extent. Once you have uncovered its secrets, there is little incentive to replay the game, if only to re-immerse yourself in the wonderful lore of Horizon Zero Dawn.
/meta-title: Horizon Zero Dawn PS4 In-depth Review
/meta-description: Want to find out why everyone loves the PS4 exclusive Horizon Zero Dawn? Read our in-depth review featuring tailored metrics and ratings to discover if the reviews are true.
The thrill of the split-screen gaming experience has been a cherished tradition for generations of console gamers. Gather your friends, grab a controller, and immerse yourself in the world of split-screen shooters on the PlayStation 4. This review delves into the finest PS4 split-screen shooter games that redefine the cooperative adventure. We’ll evaluate these games based on crucial metrics that shape a top-tier co-op experience.
Borderlands 3 /rating: 4.2
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay Mechanics: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op and Multiplayer: Great 4.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:4.5
Co-op Customisation: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Graphics and Visuals: Outstanding 5 /icon:target-lock/rating:5
In 2019, the gaming world witnessed the electrifying release of Borderlands 3, a cooperative masterpiece that accommodates 2 players or 4 players locally or online. Your mission? Put a stop to the Calypso Twins and their quest to unite the raucous bandit clans in their strive for ultimate power. With four unique vault hunters at your disposal, each boasting distinct abilities, skill trees, and playstyles, the choice is yours to make.
Every battle is a golden opportunity to amass an arsenal of gear, guns, and gadgets. If you’re not quite satisfied with your loot, you can craft your very own weapons using an assortment of weapon manufacturers, each offering their own distinctive attributes and effects. As you venture through the game, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing variety of worlds, from sprawling deserts to eerie swamps and futuristic metropolises.
What truly sets Borderlands 3 apart is its ingenious level scaling, which ensures that players of varying levels can seamlessly join forces without any hitches. Furthermore, the game offers an extensive array of DLCs, introducing new storylines, challenges, and captivating characters into the mix. And let’s not forget the iconic and quirky humour that has become the hallmark of the Borderlands series, making each playthrough a thoroughly enjoyable experience. With a vast assortment of weapons and character build options, Borderlands 3 boasts remarkable replay value. So, gear up, grab your friends, and embark on this riotous journey through a world teeming with humour, chaos, and unforgettable adventures.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands /rating: 4.1
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay Mechanics: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op and Multiplayer: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op Customisation: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Graphics and Visuals: Outstanding 5 /icon:target-lock/rating:5
In 2022, gamers were treated to the release of Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a cooperative gem that accommodates 2 players but can gather up to 4 locally or online. Embark on a whimsical adventure, led by the capricious Tiny Tina herself, as she weaves her everchanging rules into a fantastical realm. In this kaleidoscopic universe, you’ll loot, shoot, slash, and wield powerful spells on your epic quest to thwart the Dragon Lord’s ambitions. As you journey through this wondrous world, you have the freedom to customize your characters and weaponry to align with your unique playstyle, whether it’s unleashing the arcane arts, engaging in exhilarating melee combat, or wielding an extraordinary array of fantastical weapons.
For die-hard Borderlands fans, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands offers an exhilarating expansion of the beloved universe, taking a playful leap into the realm of fantasy while preserving the signature humour and over-the-top action that fans hold dear. As you traverse visually vibrant and colourful landscapes, you’ll encounter dynamic and fresh gameplay that keeps the adventure brimming with excitement. With an impressive variety of character builds at your disposal, the game offers impressive replayability, ensuring that every journey through this whimsical world is a unique and captivating experience. So, gather your companions and prepare for a fantastical escapade filled with humour, vivid landscapes, and endless possibilities.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 /rating: 4
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay Mechanics: Great 4.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:4.5
Co-op and Multiplayer: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op Customisation: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Graphics and Visuals: Outstanding 5 /icon:target-lock/rating:5
The year 2018 marked the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, offering a thrilling experience for both 4 players locally and online. Departing from the conventional single-player campaign, Black Ops 4 zeroes in on its multiplayer prowess, making it the ultimate choice for collaborative gameplay with your comrades. The game offers a selection of exhilarating modes, starting with the Multiplayer mode, where tactical finesse and customization take the forefront, boasting an extensive arsenal of weapons and equipment for you to wield. The beloved Zombie mode makes a return, beckoning players into three distinct locations, each with unique storylines and challenges. And for those seeking the ultimate battle royale thrill, there’s the Blackout mode, where you’ll plummet onto a map adorned with familiar locations from past Black Ops titles, scouring for weaponry and gear until only one player or team emerges victorious.
For enthusiasts of multiplayer action, Black Ops 4 is a revelation. It’s abundant with masterfully designed maps, packed with hidden Easter Eggs, and offers a seamless and rapid gameplay experience that’s nothing short of exceptional. The Zombies mode, in the meantime, has continued to evolve, featuring deep and demanding quests, and the inclusion of three distinct storylines means it’s brimming with replay potential. Furthermore, the game’s customization options, from loadouts to weaponry and personal appearance, grant you the freedom to tailor your gaming adventure to your own unique preferences. Whether you’re a sharpshooting enthusiast or a lover of undead mayhem, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is an adventure worth embarking on.
Resident Evil 5 /rating: 3.98
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay Mechanics: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op and Multiplayer: Great 4.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:4.5
Co-op Customisation: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Graphics and Visuals: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
In the archives of survival horror gaming, 2016 marked the resurrection of a classic with the re-release of Resident Evil 5 for the PS4, accommodating 2 players or 4 online. Step into the boots of either the seasoned zombie slayer, Chris Redfield, or his partner, Sheva Alomar, as you embark on a treacherous journey to the heart of Africa. There, a harrowing bioterrorism outbreak is in full swing, transforming innocent villagers and wildlife into the relentless ‘Majini’—creatures more cunning and aggressive than the undead horrors of previous games. With puzzles to crack, adversaries to vanquish, and an arsenal of weaponry to collect and upgrade, your skills will be put to the test.
Although the new itineration of the zombies is already tougher than previous games, the powerful Bio-Organic Weapons boss battles add another dimension of challenge and engagement to the gameplay. While the game takes a slight departure from the traditional survival horror elements of its predecessors, the heightened pace and dynamic combat encounters more than compensate. And it’s not just the gameplay that shines; the game’s impressive graphics and meticulously crafted environments plunge you headfirst into the dark and tension-laden atmosphere of Resident Evil 5. So, if you’re up for a pulse-pounding cooperative adventure that redefines the horror genre, this classic re-release is waiting to test your mettle.
7 Days to Die /rating: 3.3
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay Mechanics: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Co-op and Multiplayer: Great 4 /icon:target-lock/rating:4
Co-op Customisation: Good 3.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:3.5
Graphics and Visuals: Average 2.5 /icon:target-lock/rating:2.5
In the gaming landscape of 2013, 7 Days to Die emerged, offering an intense cooperative experience for 2 players or 4 online. Set against the bleak backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world, this open-world adventure blends first-person shooter, survival horror, defence strategy, crafting, and RPG elements into a single, gripping adventure. Grapple with relentless waves of the undead, whilst scavenging for vital resources like food, water, weapons, and construction materials in a bid to ensure your survival.
One distinct feature of 7 Days to Die is its escalating challenge, with zombie hordes growing increasingly dangerous and aggressive as the game progresses, culminating in the nerve-wracking Blood Moon horde that descends on the seventh day. The expansive open world is a wonder to explore, offering diverse environments ranging from unforgiving deserts to dense forests and decaying cities. While the game may have faced some technical hurdles along the way, ongoing development and numerous improvements have been made over the years. For those seeking a cooperative gaming experience with friends, 7 Days to Die holds great potential, thanks to its unique fusion of gameplay features. Dive into this immersive world and find out for yourself if this gripping blend of survival, horror, and co-op action takes your fancy.
/meta-title: Best PS4 Split-screen Shooter Games
/meta-description: Looking for a split-screen shooter game to play with family and friends? Look no further than our curated list of multiplayer shooting video games on the PS4!
To bring you the best PS2 games for split screen action RPG gaming, we’ve ranked them based on metrics that lead to both an enjoyable gameplay and co-op experience. This list also includes underrated PS2 games to dig into with a friend. As a sidenote, a lot of the games featured have sequels/prequels so if you enjoy them, you should check those out as well!
Marvel Ultimate Alliance /rating:5
Play Time
Main Story: 10 – 15 hours
Side + Main: 20 – 30 hours
Ratings (Out of 5)
Story: Marvel 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Coop Gameplay: Addictive 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Graphics: Perfect 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Challenge: Just Right /icon:swords/rating:3
Players: 4 /icon:gamepad/rating:4
Game Features
20 characters
Marvel
team attacks
multiple endings
Impression
Marvel Ultimate Alliance presents a solid ARPG split screen experience and an absolute treat for fans!
The story follows your team of superheroes coming together to fight off Dr. Doom and his team of Marvel Villains. The side quests also play a vital part in the story as they effect the ending.
The game features splendid graphics and lots of recognizable characters from marvel as well as a setting faithful to the Marvel Universe and beautiful cutscenes.
The game allows players to control a team of 4 superheroes and players can choose from a roster of over 20 characters, each with their own skills and combos. Characters can jump, double jump and even fly on top their attack combos and special powers. Another cool aspect is special team attacks that dish out a lot of damage. While the AI leaves something to be desired, playing with friends can be a total blast and Bosses are a challenge, rightly so.
Lord of the Rings: Return of the king /rating:4.5
Play Time
Main Story: 8 – 12 hours
Side + Main: 15 – 20 hours
Ratings (Out of 5)
Story: Amazing 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Coop Gameplay: Great 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Graphics: Impressive 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Challenge: Just Right /icon:swords/rating:3
Players: 2 /icon:gamepad/rating:2
Game Features
9 characters
Hack & Slash
LoTR
Impression
Fans of the LoTR franchise are in for a real treat with this entry! It’s based on the final chapter of the trilogy and uses the same digital assets as the movies, on top of providing an extremely enjoyable split screen experience. The only con is game only supports 2 player co-op.
The story is true to the amazing LoTR storytelling and covers the epic finale to the trilogy. It follows 3 paths (wizard, king and hobbit) and 9 characters including Gandalf, Aragorn and Legolas to name a few.
The gameplay is a solid hack slash, where each character has their own combos and skills, including those unique to race. Levels can be gained by killing enemies, of which there are a good variety and many epic bosses. The challenge provided is just right, as it requires a good amount of strategy and teamwork, where just charging in is bound to get you overwhelmed.
The graphics are also amazing for the PS2 and use digital assets from the movie as well as lots of extras, such as interviews with the cast playing the game.
Champions of Norrath /rating:4.2
Play Time
Main Story: 10 – 15 hours
Side + Main: 20 – 30 hours
Ratings (Out of 5)
Story: Solid 3 /icon:swords/rating:3
Coop Gameplay: Great 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Graphics: Amazing 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Challenge: Just Right /icon:swords/rating:3
Players: 4 /icon:gamepad/rating:4
Game Features
5-Classes
Dungeon Crawling
Character Customization
D&D
Impression
COR is another great option for those looking for some split screen action rpg goodness. Featuring 4 payers as oppose to 2, amazing graphics and solid yet cliche story, the gameplay holds it all together with your fun but standard ARPG goodness.
The story featured is solid, while being relatively cliched. The realm faces danger from an evil alliance forged by Orcs and Goblins, laying waste to the wood elves, and urging the need for a hero; One that will traverse all types of dangers, including forests, dungeons and lava to say the least.
The gameplay also follows the ARPG tried and true formula, it features 5 races that have their own play styles and roles within a party. To add more variety, it also allows for character customization.
The Graphics in COR are really nice, the quality of water, animation, level design and more are all high quality, with the exception of some blurring here and there.
Baldurs Gate: Dark Alliance /rating:4
Play Time
Main Story: 20-30 hours
Ratings (Out of 5)
Story: Solid 3 /icon:swords/rating:3
Coop Gameplay: Great 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Graphics: Perfect 5 /icon:swords/rating:5
Challenge: Just Right /icon:swords/rating:3
Players: 2 /icon:gamepad/rating:2
Game Features
3-Classes
Dungeon Crawling
D&D
Impression
Baldur’s Gate is an incredibly fun experience, made better with a friend or family member. The ARPG formula works, the story is kept interesting and the graphics are amazing. Its only cons are its linear story and limit of 2 players.
The story is interesting and brought together really well, it follows the cliche of fighting against the darkness that threatens the peace of Baldur’s Gate. However it does lose points for a linear story telling experience and does not include any side-quests.
Gameplay relies on hacking and slashing your way through waves of enemies in dungeons on your way to the next objective. It features 3 characters to choose from including: Dwarven Warrior, Elven Sorceress and Human Archer. Skills are gained upon level up from killing enemies. It stays true to ARPG formula and brings it together in a way that’s really fun. The only con is that it’s limited to 2 players as oppose to 4.
The graphics in this game are beautiful for the PS2, it has a variety of settings such as vast forests, snow mountains and ice caves to name a few and includes details such as ripples when walking through ponds.
Gauntlet: Dark Legacy /rating:4
Play Time
Main Story: 10 – 15 hours
Side + Main: 20 – 30 hours
Ratings (Out of 5)
Story: Great 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Coop Gameplay: Great 4 /icon:swords/rating:4
Graphics: Alright 2 /icon:swords/rating:2
Challenge: Just Right /icon:swords/rating:3
Players: 4 /icon:gamepad/rating:5
Game Features
16 classes
Arcade
Impression
If you’re looking for an arcade hack and slash action rpg, Gauntlet is your game! What it loses in the visual department it makes up with a huge roster, fun gameplay and an engaging story.
Gauntlet provides an engaging story true to the series. It features a powerful wizard Sumner who rules 8 realms. His younger brother who is jealous of his older brothers power and position, sets off in search of powerful magic, so that he can challenge the throne; and in doing so, lets the mighty demon Skorne escape and threaten the 8 realms.
The gameplay is where this title shines, it provides an arcade like type of hack and slash and a generous starting roster of 8 different classes including valkyries, jesters, dwarfs and more. You unlock more as you progress through a series of 60 levels with many epic bosses to slay.
The Graphics are not the most impressive on this list, as the characters tend to come out blocky and the first few levels are too detailed. However the backgrounds do get better in the later levels.
/meta-title: Best PS2 Split-screen Action RPG Games
/meta-description: Searching for some timeless and nostalgic split screen video games? Explore our list of multiplayer action RPGs for the PS2!
Step into a world of warmth and magic with cozy games on the Nintendo Switch! If you’re a fan of hidden gems that offer relaxation and enchantment, you’re in for a treat as our curated selection of games below has you covered with the best cozy games to play on switch in 2023. As always, this list is made for gamers by gamers and ranks the games based on metrics created for each niche, we hope you enjoy and find some great games to try out.
In the heartwarming world of Spiritfarer (released 2020) you’re not just a player; you’re a compassionate ferrymaster guiding lost souls to their final rest. With 1-2 players, you’ll embark on a remarkable journey as you befriend and nurture wayward spirits, helping them find solace in their journey towards the ultimate farewell. This enchanting title is renowned for its soothing soundtrack and exquisite hand-drawn visuals that breathe life into a captivating narrative. Your role? To provide a loving home for these spirits by crafting and enhancing their living spaces aboard your boat, all while delving into their pasts and aiding them in accepting their life and eventual passing. Traverse a vast and diverse array of islands, gathering and managing resources, fishing, cooking, and tending to your garden to forge deeper bonds with the spirits under your care. Spiritfarer also offers a delightful co-op mode for shared adventures.
The game boasts breathtaking illustrations, emotionally resonant gameplay and dialogue, the perfect blend of resource management and exploration, and the profound immersion facilitated by its evocative soundtrack and meaningful characters. Each element feels purposeful, making this a truly extraordinary experience. Also available: Farewell Edition.
In the captivating world of Sky: Children of the Light (released 2021), you step into a realm of wonder where you embody the Children of the Light. Your mission is to take to the skies and restore fallen stars back to their constellations. While the journey is primarily single-player, an online option lets you connect with up to 8 fellow travellers. Glide gracefully through the ethereal world of Sky, where collaboration is the key to exploring, solving intricate puzzles, and unveiling the world’s enigmatic mysteries.
One key features that sets the game apart is the sense of camaraderie it fosters. As you navigate this dreamlike realm, you’ll cross paths with players from around the globe. Every season brings new characters, each with their unique tales to share, adding depth and charm to your adventure. Personalize your character, and watch friendships flourish as you gift candles of light to one another.
Sky has breathtaking, dreamlike visuals, which captivate and immerse you in an enchanting world that feels like a living canvas. Unlike traditional dialogue-heavy narratives, Sky relies on gameplay to convey its emotional and meaningful story, offering a tranquil and contemplative experience. The game’s cross-platform play enables harmonious collaboration between players on different devices, uniting a global community. With regular updates and engaging events, Sky ensures that the journey never truly ends, inviting you to soar higher and discover more with each passing season.
In Mythic Ocean (released 2021) you venture into a captivating single-player narrative-driven game where you embark on a mesmerizing journey across the vast ocean. Here, you engage in meaningful conversations with a diverse cast of gods and sea creatures. Your role is to offer counsel to six distinct gods, each interaction shaping your story and, in turn, the world’s fate. You are free to explore the ocean’s depths at your own leisure, forging connections with the enigmatic sea creatures and guiding their world’s destiny through your choices. Building relationships with this eclectic array of characters is central, as combat and challenges take a backseat to tranquil and soothing gameplay. The pace is yours to dictate, allowing you to explore and interact in your preferred order and fully immerse yourself in the enchanting narrative.
The game’s visually striking world are brought to life by a wondrous art style. The relaxed atmosphere embraces your freedom to explore on your terms, granting you a truly audiovisual experience that enhances the dreamlike gameplay. Multiple endings and hidden secrets add to the game’s replay value, beckoning you to dive deeper into this rich and captivating oceanic narrative.
Cozy Grove (released 2021) is a serene single-player life simulation game in which you step into the role of a Spirit Scout, finding solace on the mystical island of Cozy Grove. Your mission is to provide comfort to spirits and apparitions, guiding them towards inner peace by undertaking quests, gathering vital resources, and fostering cherished bonds with the island’s friendly residents. In a uniquely charming twist, the game syncs with real-time, granting you 30-60 minutes of daily quest content, after which you’re free to explore, craft, decorate, and fish at your own leisure. Your journey unfolds against a backdrop of a vibrant and cozy hand-drawn world, where every nook hides secrets, resources await your collection, and your interactions with the environment breathe life back into the island. Customize your campsite, nurture your community, and witness the island’s transformation with the changing seasons.
Cozy Grove has a truly dynamic gameplay, where the passage of time and shifting seasons encourage you to return, ensuring each visit brings new discoveries. Set against a backdrop of soothing melodies, the game embodies a laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, inviting you to savour every moment. With charming encounters and opportunities to forge heartfelt connections, the individual backgrounds of each spirit add depth and meaning to the narrative. The game’s visual charm thrives on the ebb and flow of the seasons, delivering a fresh and visually appealing experience. Offering a non-pressurized, stress-free gaming environment, Cozy Grove fosters a sense of community thanks to developers who are responsive to player feedback, creating a truly harmonious and heartwarming gaming experience.
In the atmospheric world of Kentucky Route Zero: TV edition, which made its Switch debut in 2020, you embark on a solitary journey deep beneath the surface, traveling the underground highways of Kentucky. Across the game’s five acts, you’ll encounter a mesmerizing cast of characters, including a young woman enveloped by phantoms, a child and his trusty eagle, and robot musicians. The game weaves a tapestry of themes touching on loneliness, identity, and the passage of time. As you progress, you’ll engage in meaningful conversations, solve puzzles, and make pivotal decisions, all conveyed through visually striking yet subtly muted scenes that give life to the game’s dreamlike atmosphere. The narrative’s direction and conclusion are in your hands, with your choices shaping the story.
Kentucky Route Zero is renowned for its deep, surreal storytelling and its immersive blend of 2D and 3D art styles. The emotive characters that populate this world are shaped by your choices and interactions, fostering a unique and emotionally rich experience. Accompanied by an immersive and moody soundtrack, the game offers significant replay value due to its multiple possible endings. If you’re drawn to the cozy allure of nocturnal drives through the rain, this thought-provoking journey is sure to resonate with you.
In the heart of 2022, Bear and Breakfast emerged as a delightful single-player adventure, casting you in the furry role of Hank. Playing as a bear with a vision, you decide to transform an abandoned woodland shack into a cozy bed and breakfast, setting the stage for a charming and heartwarming journey. As you delve into the game, you’ll channel your inner innkeeper, managing and upgrading the inn’s rooms, carefully curating its decor, and making it a welcoming haven for guests.
But this isn’t just a tale of hospitality; it’s an exploration of mysteries lurking within the forest. Your days will be filled with interactions with intriguing guests, embarking on quests that weave captivating stories, and venturing into the depths of the lush forest. What truly sets Bear and Breakfast apart is the power of choice. Your decisions ripple through the narrative, shaping both the storyline and the bonds you forge along the way.
The game features an enchanting, hand-drawn art style, which whisks you away into a world brimming with charm and mystery. Creative challenges immerse you deeply in the storyline, while the game’s quirky humour ensures an enjoyable and light-hearted experience. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of a charming soundtrack as you create a cozy, relaxed atmosphere within the forest. Bear and Breakfast is an invitation to experience a truly heartwarming and enchanting adventure.
The captivating world of New Pokemon Snap (released 2021) pays homage to the classic 1999 game on the Nintendo N64 by bringing its enchanting gameplay to the modern era. As a solo player (though online options are available), you’ll step into the shoes of a photographer and researcher alongside Professor Mirror, embarking on an exhilarating adventure to unravel the secrets of the Illumina phenomenon. Armed with your trusty camera, you’ll journey in the NEO-ONE through lush beaches, dense jungles, and arid deserts, photographing Pokémon in their natural habitats as they go about their daily routines, whether it’s playing, feasting, or patrolling. With over 200 Pokémon from various generations to encounter, no two expeditions are the same, particularly as you witness their behaviours change from day to night.
This visually striking game captivates with its vibrant, detailed presentation, invoking nostalgia for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Its non-competitive and unique gameplay fosters a genuine connection with Pokémon, allowing you to interact with them in new and exciting ways. Beyond the thrill of the wild encounters, you’ll earn high scores based on the quality of your photographs, challenging yourself to capture Pokémon in various poses and behaviours. As you progress, you can enhance your camera’s capabilities, unlock useful tools, and even engage with a global community of photographers, sharing and appreciating each other’s captures. With its engaging gameplay, good replay value, and the sheer joy of encountering Pokémon in their natural habitats, this game is a delightful adventure for Pokémon enthusiasts of all ages.
/meta-title: Best Cozy Games for the Nintendo Switch that are Hidden Gems 2023.
/meta-description: Searching for cozy and comforting gameplay? Look no further than our curated list of Nintendo Switch video games that are perfect for cozy gaming evenings.
