Some nights, you might not be looking for a game that requires all your attention. Instead, you might be looking for something you can enjoy while doing other things, like chill games you can play while listening to music. We’ve compiled a list of ten of them.
Some of the games on this list have amazing soundtracks, but the music isn’t a core part of the experience. These are games you can put on mute and enjoy while you check out a Spotify playlist, listen to a podcast, or even binge-watch a TV show. When you feel too overwhelmed for more challenging titles, these games are excellent options.
No Man’s Sky
Although No Man’s Sky was once an incredibly controversial title, it’s transformed into the perfect sandbox for alien exploration. You can jump from one star system to the next, or spend all your time building a base on your home planet. You can take on story missions or spend all your time taming creatures or learning languages. You can play with friends or explore alone. No Man’s Sky is what you make of it, which is why it’s a great game to relax with.
No Man’s Sky is available on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Weapon Shop Fantasy
If you’re a fan of clicker and semi-idle games, but are looking for something that’s a little more involved, Weapon Shop Fantasy might be exactly what you’ve been searching for. This shop simulator/RPG hybrid casts you in the role of a vampire that’s deeply in debt. There are always a million things to do, but the game is never stressful. Whether you’re micromanaging your employees or just letting the game run in the background for hours, this casual title will never keep you too busy.
Weapon Shop Fantasy is available for PC and Mac.
Slime Rancher
Even if you’re in a terrible mood, Slime Rancher is the sort of game that can put a smile on your face. This title — which asks you to collect slimes, feed them, and gather their plorts (slime poo) — is as adorable and addictive as video games get. While it can occasionally be frustrating, like when a slime somehow sneaks into the wrong pen, it’s usually a joy to play. The only thing that could make it better would be playing it on Switch.
Slime Rancher is available on PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Monster Train
I’ve barely gone a night without playing Monster Train since I’ve picked it up. This is a roguelike deck-building game with tower defense elements, which might not sound calming, but somehow, it never feels stressful. Runs are short, and you make progress every time you play. There are no nasty surprises; the game tells you which bosses you’ll be fighting at the start of each run. Similar games can be punishing, but Monster Train gives you new tools at every turn. It’s the perfect blend of challenge and chill.
Monster Train is available on PC.
Project Highrise
If you’ve ever played Sim Tower, you’ve basically played Project Highrise, which is a near-perfect clone of the Maxis classic. This skyscraper-construction-and-management sim is perfect for anyone that loves town- and city-builders but wants something a little less demanding. There are plenty of scenarios to play through, but if you prefer a little less structure, you can also play around in Sandbox Mode.
Project Highrise is available on PC, Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley started out as a spiritual successor to Harvest Moon, but with over 10 million copies sold, it might now be the definitive way to experience digital life on the farm. Although Stardew Valley has an amazing soundtrack, it’s simple enough to enjoy while listening to just about anything. (If you’re looking for a new chill farming game, there are tons of other great options, like Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town Remake, Rune Factory 4, and even oddball gems like Graveyard Keeper.)
Stardew Valley is available for PC, Mac, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Among Trees
Early Access survival games can often be an exercise is frustration, but Among Trees is peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you’re gardening, fishing, or just taking screenshots, this sandbox game is the perfect way to forget about everyday stresses and get lost in another world. There are some threats, like bears, but they’re easily avoided. If you want a minimally stressful experience, you can also choose to play the game in zen mode.
Among Trees is available on PC via the Epic Game Store.
Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles
Sometimes, even simplistic combat can be stressful. Luckily, Yonder allows you to avoid it entirely. There’s plenty to do in this open-world adventure game, from exploring a vast world to fulfilling quests to befriending animals to crafting all kinds of items. However, there’s never any fighting involved. There are no game over screens and no fail states. Yonder‘s tranquil world is perfect for getting lost in.
Yonder is available on PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Astroneer
Astroneer is set during the 25th century Intergalactic Age of Discovery, an age of creativity and ingenuity. This space-based survival crafting game allows you to travel throughout the solar system, exploring seven handcrafted planets. All of the items you craft can be snapped together, making base building incredibly satisfying. Astroneer can be played alone or with up to 4 players.
Astroneer is available on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Minecraft
Like Stardew Valley, Minecraft is a little difficult to recommend. With 90+ million monthly players, it’s one of the most-played games in the entire world. Still, whether you play in Survival or Creative mode, it’s a great game to zone out with while you listen to a long playlist. If you’re looking for a chill Minecraft alternative, Portal Knights and Dragon Quest Builders are both great options.
Minecraft is available to play on virtually every platform.
