Cozy games offer a relaxing gaming experience, but as someone who values my purchases, I often struggle to justify spending money on them. I prefer games that provide substantial value, and if a cozy title feels like a fleeting experience, I often end up feeling disappointed. This sentiment underscores my appreciation for the Xbox Game Pass subscription. While the library includes many blockbuster titles, it also houses an impressive selection of low-key, calming games perfect for unwinding and achieving that cozy mindset.
With an Xbox Game Pass, I have the freedom to explore a variety of cozy games at my own pace. This allows me to experiment with different titles, enjoy them leisurely, and even discover hidden gems that I may want to own in the future. Here’s a curated list of noteworthy cozy games currently available in the Xbox Game Pass library.
Please note that this list was compiled on June 17, 2025, and may change as games get added or removed from the Game Pass library.
9 We Love Katamari REROLL + Royal Reverie
Rolling Over The World
Reflecting on my childhood, I recall a time when games were dominated by dark, gritty military shooters. In contrast, vibrant titles like We Love Katamari, the second installment of the beloved Katamari series from the PS2 era, brought much-needed color and joy. Now reimagined as We Love Katamari REROLL, this delightfully quirky game invites players to take control of a tiny prince who rolls a sticky ball to collect everything in sight. The larger your ball grows, the more ridiculous and fun the items you can gather.
While some levels may present challenges, the overall experience is strikingly relaxing. The game encourages exploration and creativity, all while accompanied by one of the most enjoyable soundtracks in gaming. If you’ve played the original, the Game Pass will let you relive the nostalgia without an extra expense.
8 Unpacking
Sate That Redecorating Craving
I fondly remember the joys of purchasing Humble Bundles, where I unwrapped delightful, concise games I could complete in just a few sessions.Unpacking appealed to my love for organization and tidy living spaces. This short narrative puzzle game uses the theme of moving homes as its foundation. Players guide an unnamed protagonist through different stages of life, unpacking and arranging their belongings in new living spaces. Each placed item contributes to a more profound understanding of the character’s journey and personal history.
Compact yet heartfelt, Unpacking offers a rewarding experience that you can complete in roughly three hours—perfect for filling the time while anticipating a larger game release.
7 Viva Piñata
An Oldie, But A Goodie
Long before the term “cozy”became popular in the gaming vernacular, titles like Viva Piñata showcased the charming, relaxed gameplay that we now cherish. Originally released in 2006 by Rare for Xbox 360, it’s now part of the Game Pass library (console only).Players assume responsibility for a neglected garden on Piñata Island, nurturing it to attract various whimsical animal piñatas.
Despite its playful premise, this title features impressive depth; players must manage their garden’s ecology and ensure the well-being of their piñata residents. Additionally, the game even integrates a life cycle and food chain, adding layers to its gameplay. Interestingly, there was an animated series based on this game that aired on 4Kids TV, which aired for two seasons, showcasing its popularity.
6 Spirit Dangers
Hug A Ghost For Your Health
I have a soft spot for Spiritfarer. Initially, the premise didn’t immediately captivate me, but experiencing it through Game Pass ignited a passion for what would quickly become one of my favorite titles in recent memory. This adventure management game invites players to guide spirits of the departed on a grand houseboat. You’ll nurture their needs, harvest resources, and complete quests while making unforgettable memories.
The game features a streamlined gameplay loop where tasks like farming and cooking occur in real-time, allowing players to multitask while enjoying a cozy experience. From the moment I began my journey on Game Pass, I was enchanted by its charm and emotional storytelling.
5 PowerWash Simulator
Satisfaction Guaranteed
If you crave the satisfaction derived from cleaning without the real-life effort, PowerWash Simulator is the perfect fit. The premise involves wielding a hose of unlimited water to remove dirt and grime from various surfaces, from vehicles to buildings. It’s a delightful way to engage with a casual gaming session while listening to podcasts or enjoying chats with friends over its co-op mode.
Having first played this title during my initial Game Pass subscription, I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to purchase it. This game epitomizes the value of Game Pass—you can test titles before committing to a purchase.
4 Minecraft
If You Somehow Haven’t Played It
Realistically speaking, if you’re a fan of sandbox games, you’ve likely played Minecraft at this point. However, if you’re on the fence about diving into the blocky world, experiencing it through Game Pass can serve as an excellent introduction without financial commitment.
In Minecraft, you gather resources, build structures, and unleash your creativity in a limitless environment. Whether you fancy building a quaint seaside cottage or an ambitious architectural feat like a meticulous replica of the Ghostbusters firehouse, this game adapts to your cozy gameplay preferences. Plus, it’s part of the Game Pass Core library, ensuring accessible enjoyment for those not wishing to invest in the full package.
3 Magical Delicacy
You Gotta Do The Cookin’ By The Book
Cooking marries science and creativity, involving precise measurements and experimentation. In Magical Delicacy, the culinary adventure is light-hearted and infused with elements of magic. Players will navigate a charming town, fulfilling culinary requests from the locals while sourcing unique ingredients.
Upon returning home, you can follow recipes to the letter or experiment with ingredients to craft your personalized delights. This combat-free Metroidvania title allows players to explore a vibrant world while gradually unlocking new abilities that enhance both cooking and the adventure.
2 Little Kitty, Big City
Cat Got Your Thumbs?
It’s well-documented that a large number of people appreciate cats, whether or not they personally own one. This affinity makes Little Kitty, Big City especially inviting, as players step into the paws of an adorable feline. While it features a main quest involving guiding the protagonist home, the real charm lies in exploring the delightful world, interacting with pedestrians, causing lighthearted mischief, and embracing the cat’s carefree spirit.
I initially overlooked Little Kitty, Big City, but once it became available on Game Pass, I decided to give it a try. The result was a delightful experience that perfectly mirrored the whimsical nature of spending a day as a cat. Players can choose to engage with the world at their leisure, matching the pace of their furry counterpart.
1 Flock
Come Fly With Me
Creature collecting games often demand a commitment from players, but what if you could gather an assortment of whimsical critters simply by soaring past them? Welcome to the cozy world of Flock.
In this lightweight sandbox title, players glide on their oversized bird, herding a flock of floating sheep while discovering other bizarre flying creatures along the way. There’s no combat or complicated puzzles; it’s all about exploration and collecting, creating a soothing experience free from stress.
While Flock may not be a game I would traditionally purchase, its availability on Game Pass allows me to thoroughly enjoy the experience without any strings attached, highlighting the subscription’s strengths in allowing players to explore diverse titles without the pressure of financial commitment.
Leave a Reply