KEY POINTS

  • Zen games are perfect for people who are looking to pass the time without stressing themselves out
  • Life sims are generally peaceful and relaxing
  • Visual novels are great for those who are looking for narrative-based adventures

While many of today’s most popular video games involve fast-paced action or competitive multiplayer matches, nothing quite beats a relaxing title that can help gamers unwind from tough times or from a long week of work.

Not everything needs to be exciting to be fun as proven by these four popular games on Steam that all gamers should try at least once.

“Unpacking”

As its name would suggest, “Unpacking” is a zen game that’s all about pulling out treasured possessions from boxes and arranging them neatly into a furnishable new home. The game is advertised as “part block-fitting puzzle, part home decoration” in the Steam store, and it’s easy to see why.

“Unpacking” is all about peace. There are no timers or scores to worry about, but there is an underlying story about the player’s character and their background that’s worth seeing through to the end.

Unpacking is a zen puzzle game with a story that goes beyond what meets the eye
Unpacking is a zen puzzle game with a story that goes beyond what meets the eye Witch Beam

“My Time at Portia”

Often called a 3D version of “Stardew Valley,” “My Time at Portia” is a life sim that places players in the eponymous town to pursue whichever goal they want. Fulfill commissions, go on adventures, raise crops and meet the delightful denizens of Portia as they go about their daily lives in a post-apocalyptic world.

There’s a little bit of something for everybody in “My Time at Portia” that somehow guarantees to make players feel at ease after every session.

My Time At Portia is a life sim that gives players the freedom to choose from a variety of professions to pursue
My Time At Portia is a life sim that gives players the freedom to choose from a variety of professions to pursue Pathea Games

“PowerWash Simulator”

A game about power-washing isn’t exactly the most exciting, but with over 10,000 positive reviews on Steam, players are sure to find some amazing value out of this title.

PowerWash Simulator” is exactly what it claims to be. Go from property to property with a modular power washer and make sure that every nook and cranny is as spotless as it can be. Apart from a checklist of spots to clean, there’s nothing that’s truly stressful about the game, which makes it perfect for simply relaxing or unwinding after a long day.

PowerWash Simulator is a game about cleaning random properties using one of the most cleaning satisfying tools in the world
PowerWash Simulator is a game about cleaning random properties using one of the most cleaning satisfying tools in the world Futurlab

“Coffee Talk”

For those who love reading, “Coffee Talk” is a visual novel-style game set in one of the most relaxing places in modern society: a coffee shop. Play as a barista and serve a multitude of drinks to a variety of interesting individuals while listening to whatever’s floating in their heads.

The game is basically designed to be as relaxing as possible, from the lo-fi aesthetic to the warm colors and endearing characters. “Coffee Talk” is a must-try for those who love a good story.

Coffee Talk is a visual novel-styled game about listening to problems and serving coffee
Coffee Talk is a visual novel-styled game about listening to problems and serving coffee Toge Productions