Nowadays I find a lot of games feel like too much work and/or anxiety when I just want to relax for like, 30 minutes to an hour after a long day. On the other hand, the games specifically designed to help you unwind just feel boring imo.
In the past I’ve felt like Outer Wilds scratched this itch, cause the whole experience was engaging but generally relaxed. There was a mystery that kept me hooked and the exploration and movement was fun in and of itself. I also felt like Subnautica filled this role since it was very much at my own pace, with anxiety producing portions which could for the most part be avoided or minimized, and also there was a clear objective to fulfill, get off the planet.
So what games do you play when you just wanna relax?
Descenders (oddly satisfying mountain biking game)
Life is Strange was a good one to chill and enjoy the unfolding of events (any of them are good. The 1st and Colors were my favorites)
Grand Turismo I’ve been on. Never really been a racing fan but for a few races I’m actually relaxed and enjoying myself.
Descenders is such a fun game! I love doing suicide trick jumps into the finish area so the level successfully ends with my rider crashing through the barriers in the background
Also some great tunes. And the crazy obstacle course levels are a blast