Adapted by:
John Tones
WriterI've been writing about culture for twenty-something years and, at Xataka, I cover everything related to movies, video games, TV shows, comics, and pop culture.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns had a lasting impact on the gaming industry. One of the most notable changes was the rise of a genre that had always existed but remained largely under the radar. In search of an escape from the harsh realities of the world, players flocked to titles that provided comfort and distraction. These games not only became beloved legends but also reshaped the way people think about gaming. To highlight just how much the cozy gaming revolution is taking off, Netflix is now introducing an online multiplayer experience where the goal isn’t to outcompete others, but simply to enjoy a relaxed, stress-free time together.
What are cozy games? Cozy games encompass a wide range of titles but are united by one key element: their relaxing and stress-free nature. These games typically favor exploration without rigid goals, creative expression, and emotional connection over intense challenges or competition. Unlike traditional titles, cozy games avoid elements like high-stakes combat, violence, or anxiety-inducing themes. The genre is more of a spiritual or thematic classification than a specific game type. Cozy games can be anything from RPGs to puzzle games to graphic adventures, but they all offer a low-pressure, feel-good experience—similar to the viral phenomenon of the anime girl and cat studying with lo-fi music.
The origins of cozy games. Some trace the roots of cozy games back to the 1980s with the release of Little Computer People, a game that allowed players to observe the lives of small, virtual inhabitants in a digital house. Though interaction was minimal, the game’s appeal lay in watching the characters’ daily routines—essentially a precursor to The Sims. Over the years, cozy games evolved into the modern indie hits gamers know today, like Journey, Stardew Valley, and Harvest Moon, which emphasized creativity and personal interaction over traditional gameplay elements.
Pandemic relaxation. Perhaps no game embodied the spirit of the pandemic’s cozy gaming boom better than Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Released in March 2020 for the Nintendo Switch, it became a massive hit, selling more than 13 million copies in just six weeks. The game’s emphasis on farming, relationship-building, and customization provided a much-needed escape, especially as real-life interactions became more isolated. The game allowed players to create their idealized escapes, offering a reprieve from the harsh realities of the time.
The cozy explosion. In the last five years, the cozy game genre has exploded. According to Steam data, the number of games labeled “relaxing” increased by 309% from 2019 to 2023, from 523 to 2,142 titles. Even more telling is the growth of the cozy game label itself, which jumped by 1,091% from 15 games in 2020 to 371 in 2024. This surge reflects an undeniable trend.
Netflix joins the cozy craze. Netflix has become the latest company to embrace the cozy gaming trend. It recently announced Spirit Crossing, an ambitious MMO developed by Spry Fox, creators of the beloved cozy game Cozy Grove. Set in an anime-inspired world, Spirit Crossing focuses on player cooperation and community-building rather than competitive gameplay. In this game, players can participate in activities like virtual parties, collaborate with others, and explore a constantly evolving world full of secrets and surprises.
Image | Netflix Games
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