As an adult, we don’t always have the energy to grind more hours in front of the PC. Sometimes, it’s just nice to kick back and download casual games while doom-scrolling. These are games you can play while commuting or just waiting for your next appointment. They spark joy and hoard all your attention with minimal energy. Here are games I personally recommend—some free, some paid (prices may vary slightly depending on your region or local App Store currency):
- Overwinter ($0.99 USD)
If you like indie games, this is one you cannot miss. Developed by Fatih Beceran, it’s available on iOS (currently not on Google Play). You play as a survivor whose plane crashes amidst Greenland’s glaciers. Stranded, your goal is to stay alive and repair your plane to return home. The gameplay revolves around survival—hunting, fishing, gathering wood, crafting tools, managing cabin warmth via the stove, and repairing the cabin along the way. Can you survive longer than I have (you probably can)? - Good Coffee, Great Coffee (free)
From the creators of the classic Good Pizza, Great Pizza (TapBlaze) comes its cozy counterpart set in a café. It features the same charming art style as the previous game. You get to experience life as a café owner—taking orders, making drinks, and decorating your space. You also interact with customers, getting the full café experience minus the real-life stress. - Project Makeover (free, with in-game purchases)
If you download random apps like I do, you’ve probably seen the ads for this game. Yes, I downloaded it from one of those ads, and while the gameplay is drastically different from the ads (as is often the case), it’s genuinely entertaining. It’s a puzzle game with mechanics similar to Candy Crush: you match pieces, earn money, and unlock makeover decisions for each client. I once spent every spare minute playing this game—and while that might be mildly concerning, it’s a testament to how entertaining it is. Who doesn’t love a good makeover?
I hope you enjoy these games as much as I do. When you need the joy of gaming without burnout, these titles are the perfect pick-me-ups—like coffee in the morning.
Matcha-fueled shoujo heroine who loves gaming.