Sci-fi games may have a reputation of being all abouthigh-octane space battlesand intense shootouts. However, if you just want to explore alien worlds and tinker with futuristic tech, there are plenty of cozy sci-fi games out there for you.
These games offer immersive, futuristic settings with relaxing gameplay, letting you build and discover at your own pace. There are games built around salvaging spaceships to herding adorable slimes (yes, slimes). These games are proof that the future doesn’t always have to be stressful! So, let’s take a look at the best cozy sci-fi games.
Outer Wilds is the ultimate sci-fimystery wrapped in a cozy, exploratory package. You’ll take control of an astronaut in a carefully designed solar system who is stuck in a 22-minute time loop (before the sun explodes). There isn’t any intense combat or survival mechanics. Instead, you’ll spend your time puzzle-solving and unraveling the secrets of the solar system.
The setting is extremely beautiful and varied, prompting exploration. Plus, the storytelling is very thoughtful and promotes a sense of awe, which just helps bring the whole game together.
Ever wanted to own a ranch filled with adorable, bouncy aliens? Slime Rancher 2 makes that dream a reality. This game is the epitome ofcozy. You’ll explore a vibrant, pastel-hued alien planet while collecting and caring for different slime types. Each type is a little bit different, providing some depth to the game.
Farming, resource management, and exploration all blend together in a satisfying (but stress-free) gameplay loop. There’sno combatat all, so you can spend your time caring for your new slimes and watching your new gooey friends hop around.
What started as a controversial launch has transformed into one of the best cozy sci-fi experiences. No Man’s Sky is all about exploring an infinite universe at your own pace. Want to build a peaceful settlement on a lush planet? Go for it. Prefer to spend hours cataloging alien creatures? That works, too.
This game has a mix of base-building, farming, and exploration, but everything (pretty much) is optional, allowing you to pick and choose which mechanics you’d like to pursue. Plus, there are constant updates, so there is always something new to do, too.
If you love the idea of exploring space but prefer a more hands-on, sandbox experience, Astroneer is for you. This game’s premise is centered on terraforming planets, gathering resources, and building the best base possible. With no enemies to fight or intense survival mechanics, it’s a game about creativity and discovery.
The physics-based terrain manipulation is best in class. You can sculpt mountains and carve tunnels to your heart’s content. You can even play co-op with your friends, taking on the task of building an evenbiggerbase together. There is plenty of depth, but it doesn’t feel stressful or overwhelming.
Set in a decaying space station, Citizen Sleeper 2 is a narrative-driven RPG where you play as a synthetic human trying to carve out a new life. The game revolves around managing your time, relationships, and resources. There is a huge web of intricate stories to unravel. You’ll make friends, work at a job, and uncover more secrets than you’re able to count.
Unlike other RPGs, there is no gameplay involved. Instead, the game is built on tabletop-inspired mechanics and very deep storytelling. It’s perfect if you want a slower-paced game set in a rich sci-fi world.
Genesis Noir is truly something unique. It’s a surreal, cosmic journey through time and space that’s all wrapped into a noir-style point-and-click adventure. You play as No Man, a being caught in a love triangle between celestial entities, witnessing the birth of the universe itself. The game’s abstract puzzles, mesmerizing jazz soundtrack, and breathtaking art make it feel more like an interactive dream than a traditional game.
It’s absolutely a unique adventure that everyone should play at least once. There is no stress or rush. Everything unfolds at the speed it’s supposed to, and you just have to witness it.
Few things are more satisfying than taking apart massive spaceships piece by piece, and that’s exactly what Hardspace: Shipbreaker delivers. You’ll play as a zero-G salvaged, and your job is to carefully dismantle derelict ships to reach the valuable materials inside. You’ll have to plan carefully to avoid explosions and other hazards.
While there issomestress involved, the game lets you take apart ships at your own pace, so you have as much time to plan as you need. It’s much more relaxed than other simulator games and has a very satisfying gameplay loop.
Imagine being a delivery driver in a cyberpunk city where you have to navigate neon-lit streets. That’s exactly what Cloudpunk is. It’s a huge narrative adventure where you’ll pilot a hovercar through a massive metropolis. The gameplay is very straightforward. You’ll pick up packages from eccentric characters and deliver them. But there is a lot more to the game than meets the eye.
There are no combat or high-pressure mechanics. Instead, you have the freedom to explore the neon skyline and enjoy the game’s story. It’s a nice, cozy game with a cyberpunk twist.
