I’m back with my top 5 picks for cozy games releasing this July! I think it’s time for all of us to settle down with some peaceful play. Despite the heat, world issues, personal issues, a bad day etc. – the cozy gaming community is such a wonderful corner to hide in when we need a break. I’m excited to dive into a couple of these titles myself, especially Tales of the Shire.
In other cozy news:
1. Merry Fairy
This one is for all the cozy crafters out there. Merry Fairy is essentially a digitalized, gamified scrapbook. Dive into a wonderful fairytale environment and collect some cute decor to put together the cozy scrapbook of your dreams. There are no challenges, no combat, no requirements. This game is a wholesome opportunity to unplug from your daily doings and relax in an enchanted cottage in the woods.
While this is the creator’s (who endearingly goes by Fairy) first solo video game release, her fairytale like creativity has been expressed through handmade socks, a board game, and a comic.
Merry Fairy will be available to play on Steam on July 9th.
Unwind and discover magic at the Merry Fairy cottage in Fairyland.
2. Misc. A Tiny Tale
Releasing on July 22nd to Steam and Nintendo Switch, Misc. A Tiny Tale is a cozy adventure game where you’ll play as two tiny robots cleaning up villages as they discover the truth behind a mysterious explosion.
Being tiny means there is a lot to explore! In this world, keeping things tidy and practicing good recycling habits is beneficial for everyone involved. You’ll meet other bots, discover heartfelt moments, and even find some hidden treasures along your adventure to the truth.
Befriend other bots on your adventure, including cute robot dogs.
3. Sunset High
Sunset High is a 2D, narrative driven adventure game that is the perfect mix of cozy suspense. It will be available exclusively on Steam July 23rd.
As a student at Sunset High, things get awry when your crush goes missing and you’re the last person they texted. Now, you’re stuck in a time loop until you can figure out exactly what went down that night. Your choices matter and each response you make will unravel the adventure in its own way, aka this game is made to be replayed.
If you like the Life is Strange series, I reckon giving this a shot. It feels like a perfect Summerween game to me.
Break out of this high school time loop by replaying key moments with your crush.
4. Hotel Galactic
Coming to Steam on July 24th, Hotel Galactic is a Ghibli lover’s dream. This cozy management and decor game allows you to run and rebuild a hotel for adorable aliens from across the galaxy. Enjoy beautifully hand-painted scenes as you decorate rooms, check guests in, and keep your hotel running smoothly to ensure the Galactic Peace Corps are satisfied. You’ll also be able to assign tasks to staff, befriend some otherworldly creatures, raise a garden, and even cook up some delicious meals.
Another game where the actions you take will matter in the end, so be sure to keep your guests cozy!
An intergalactic garden and shrine is sure to impress the Galactic Peace Corps.
5. Tales of the Shire
Tales of the Shire has been pushed back a few times now, but it’s finally here! You’ll be able to live out your Hobbit dreams in this life simulation game on PS5, Nintendo Switch, Steam, and Xbox Series X by July 29th.
After its first demo was available back in 2024, the developers took into consideration feedback from players before attempting to fully release the game. Hopefully, this is good news and the time it’s taken will show through gameplay.
Create your very own Hobbit to explore the quaint village of Bywater and help it flourish by tending to the world around you and its residents. Your cozy community awaits you.
Cook up some cozy Hobbit recipes for the residents of Bywater.
