15 Cozy Games Like Stardew Valley You’ll Instantly Fall in Love

Introduction Of Games Like Stardew Valley
Since its release, Stardew Valley has become a modern classic among cozy games. With its charming pixel art, rewarding farming mechanics, heartfelt character relationships, and relaxing open-ended gameplay, it offers a wholesome escape from everyday stress. Whether you’re harvesting crops, fishing by the lake, or slowly building a life in Pelican Town, Stardew Valley invites you to play at your own pace — and that’s exactly why so many players are still hooked years later.
But once you’ve explored every corner of the valley, you might find yourself craving more games like Stardew Valley — titles that bring the same cozy comfort, creative freedom, and satisfying progression. Whether you’re into farming sims, life simulation games, or just love relaxing games with a soothing atmosphere, you’re in the right place.
In this list, we’ve gathered 15 wholesome games that capture the spirit of Stardew Valley in unique and delightful ways. From indie gems to under-the-radar favorites, each title offers something special for fans of cozy, feel-good gaming.
What Makes a Game Like Stardew Valley?
Core Elements That Define the Genre
When people search for games like Stardew Valley, they’re usually looking for a specific blend of features that made the original so beloved. At its core, Stardew Valley combines farming, crafting, character relationships, and exploration — all wrapped in charming pixel art and peaceful sound design. But it’s not just about planting crops or fishing by the river. The magic lies in how all these pieces work together to create a relaxing, open-ended world where time feels like it’s truly yours.
The Emotional Hook: Why We Keep Coming Back
Games in this cozy genre tap into emotions like relaxation, creativity, and the joy of progress. They offer a digital safe space — a retreat where you can build something meaningful without pressure. Whether you’re tending to a garden, making friends in a small town, or designing your dream home, these life simulation games give you a sense of calm purpose. That emotional connection is why players continue to seek out similar experiences.
In the next section, we’ll explore 15 carefully selected cozy games that capture that same feeling, each with its own unique twist.
Top 15 Games Like Stardew Valley (Ranked by Theme & Feel)
Looking for your next cozy escape? These 15 games like Stardew Valley capture that same soothing gameplay loop — farming, friendship, crafting, and a sense of meaningful progression. Whether you’re into pixel art, fantasy farming, or life simulation games with a twist, you’ll find something here to fall in love with.
1. Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town
Release Year: 2020 (remake) | Developer: Marvelous
Platforms: PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One
Why it’s similar: This is the spiritual predecessor to Stardew Valley, featuring familiar farming, romance, and town-building gameplay.
What sets it apart: A polished remake of a Game Boy Advance classic with updated graphics and smoother controls.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Farming, seasonal events, and deep relationship-building.
2. Rune Factory 4 Special
Release Year: 2020 (Special edition) | Developer: Marvelous
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
Why it’s similar: Combines farming and romance with real-time dungeon crawling and combat.
What sets it apart: RPG-style mechanics and story-driven quests alongside cozy farming life.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Combat and adventure mixed with peaceful farming.
3. My Time at Portia
Release Year: 2019 | Developer: Pathea Games
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, mobile
Why it’s similar: Offers a relaxing routine of farming, crafting, and relationship-building in a vibrant town.
What sets it apart: Fully 3D world, deeper crafting systems, and post-apocalyptic sci-fi lore.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Crafting and town development in a more expansive setting.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Release Year: 2020 | Developer: Nintendo
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Why it’s similar: Wholesome life simulation with decorating, fishing, and making friends in a peaceful village.
What sets it apart: Real-time clock mechanics and unparalleled customization.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Chill, open-ended play with creative freedom.
5. Spiritfarer
Release Year: 2020 | Developer: Thunder Lotus Games
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Game Pass
Why it’s similar: Character-driven story, emotional connections, and resource management.
What sets it apart: You guide spirits to the afterlife with themes of grief, compassion, and letting go.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Deep stories and emotional experiences.
6. Moonlighter
Release Year: 2018 | Developer: Digital Sun
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
Why it’s similar: Balances shopkeeping and resource collection, with a cozy village setting.
What sets it apart: Addictive roguelite dungeon crawling alongside day job of running a store.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Action combat and managing a business.
7. Graveyard Keeper
Release Year: 2018 | Developer: Lazy Bear Games
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, mobile
Why it’s similar: Farming sim vibes with pixel art and village life.
What sets it apart: Dark humor, cemetery management, and morally questionable choices.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Quirky twists on the farming genre.
8. Garden Story
Release Year: 2021 | Developer: Picogram
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox
Why it’s similar: Adorable pixel art and strong community-building focus.
What sets it apart: You play as a grape defending and restoring your village.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Light combat mixed with social tasks and town upgrades.
9. Sun Haven
Release Year: 2023 | Developer: Pixel Sprout Studios
Platforms: PC (Steam), coming to Switch
Why it’s similar: Classic farming sim with relationship building and seasonal farming.
What sets it apart: Adds magic, monsters, and fantasy races in a vibrant RPG world.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Stardew but wish it had dragons and spells.
10. Coral Island
Release Year: 2023 | Developer: Stairway Games
Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation
Why it’s similar: Farming, fishing, romance, and a growing tropical town.
What sets it apart: Gorgeous visuals, diverse cast, and strong eco-friendly themes.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Inclusive stories and beautiful environments.
11. Slime Rancher 2
Release Year: 2022 (Early Access) | Developer: Monomi Park
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Why it’s similar: Chill collection gameplay and base building.
What sets it apart: You ranch adorable slimes on a colorful alien planet.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Whimsical creatures and non-traditional farming.
12. Dinkum
Release Year: 2022 (Early Access) | Developer: James Bendon
Platforms: PC (Steam)
Why it’s similar: Life sim with farming, bug catching, and town expansion.
What sets it apart: Aussie-themed outback setting and freedom-focused sandbox play.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Exploration and laid-back progression.
13. Ooblets
Release Year: 2022 | Developer: Glumberland
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox
Why it’s similar: Farming, crafting, and quirky town life.
What sets it apart: Dance battles with collectible creatures (Ooblets).
Ideal for players who enjoy: Whimsical, offbeat, cozy games.
14. Hokko Life
Release Year: 2022 | Developer: Wonderscope
Platforms: PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
Why it’s similar: Small town life with farming, fishing, and decorating.
What sets it apart: Strong focus on designing furniture, homes, and clothing.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Customization and creative expression.
15. Littlewood
Release Year: 2020 | Developer: Sean Young
Platforms: PC, Switch
Why it’s similar: Farming, fishing, and rebuilding a peaceful town.
What sets it apart: Takes place after you save the world — all that’s left is to relax.
Ideal for players who enjoy: Low-pressure, post-adventure coziness.
Comparison Table: Games Like Stardew Valley
Game | Platforms | Core Features | Art Style | Combat |
Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One | Farming, animal care, seasonal festivals, town building | 2D, Pixel Art | No |
Rune Factory 4 Special | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One | Farming, RPG combat, dungeons, relationships | 3D, Anime-inspired | Yes (Combat) |
My Time at Portia | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Mobile | Crafting, farming, questing, town development | 3D, Cel-shaded | Yes (Combat) |
Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Switch | Customization, real-time clock, relationship building | 3D, Cartoonish | No |
Spiritfarer | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Game Pass | Emotional story, boat-building, spirit care | 2D, Hand-drawn Animation | No |
Moonlighter | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One | Shopkeeping, dungeon crawling, monster hunting | 2D, Pixel Art | Yes (Combat) |
Graveyard Keeper | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Mobile | Cemetery management, dark humor, resource gathering | 2D, Pixel Art | Yes (Combat) |
Garden Story | PC, Switch, Xbox One | Farming, community-building, puzzles | 2D, Pixel Art | No |
Sun Haven | PC (Steam), Switch (coming soon) | Farming, magic, multiplayer, fantasy races | 2D, Pixel Art | Yes (Combat) |
Coral Island | PC, Xbox, PlayStation | Farming, eco-friendly, diverse characters | 3D, Stylized | No |
Slime Rancher 2 | PC, Xbox Series X/S | Slime farming, exploration, resource management | 3D, Cute & Whimsical | No |
Dinkum | PC (Steam) | Farming, exploration, outback theme, wildlife | 3D, Realistic | Yes (Combat) |
Ooblets | PC, Switch, Xbox One | Farming, creature collecting, dance battles | 3D, Cartoonish | No |
Hokko Life | PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One | Customization, designing, town-building | 3D, Cartoonish | No |
Littlewood | PC, Switch | Town-building, farming, questing | 2D, Pixel Art | No |
Tips for Choosing Your Next Cozy Game
Match the Game to Your Play Style
While all the games on this list share the cozy charm of Stardew Valley, not every title will suit every type of player. Here are a few things to consider before diving into your next wholesome adventure:
Combat or No Combat?
Some games, like Rune Factory 4 and Moonlighter, mix cozy gameplay with real-time combat or dungeon crawling. Others, like Animal Crossing or Littlewood, are completely combat-free, perfect for players who want a more peaceful, meditative experience.
Real-Time vs Turn-Based vs Free-Paced
If you enjoy games that follow a real-world clock, Animal Crossing: New Horizons might be your thing. Prefer more control over time? Games like Stardew Valley and Sun Haven let you manage your in-game days at your own pace.
2D Pixel Art vs 3D Graphics
Pixel art fans will love titles like Garden Story and Graveyard Keeper, which retain a charming retro feel. For more visually immersive experiences, check out 3D games like My Time at Portia or Coral Island.
Don’t Forget Budget & Platform
Not all cozy games are available on every platform. If you’re on Nintendo Switch, your options might differ slightly from someone playing on PC or Xbox. Also, keep your budget in mind — while some games like Littlewood and Hokko Life are affordable indie titles, others may have premium pricing.
Pro Tip: Watch out for seasonal sales on Steam, Nintendo eShop, and Xbox Game Pass — many of these games go on discount often!
Where to Buy or Try These Games
Find Your Next Favorite on the Right Platform
Many of the best cozy games like Stardew Valley are available across multiple platforms, making them easy to access no matter how you prefer to play.
Popular Platforms to Check:
- Steam – Great for PC gamers, with frequent sales, early access titles (like Dinkum), and user reviews.
- Nintendo eShop – Ideal for handheld or hybrid players who love to take cozy games on the go.
- Xbox Game Pass – Several titles like Spiritfarer, Slime Rancher 2, and Coral Island have been available through the subscription, making it a budget-friendly way to explore.
- PlayStation Store – Hosts a growing library of indie life sims, including My Time at Portia and Garden Story.
Try Before You Buy
Many indie developers offer free demos or early access builds, especially on Steam. These can be a great way to get a feel for the gameplay before committing. You can also look for bundles or publisher sales that offer multiple cozy games at a discount.
Pro Tip: Wishlist the games you’re interested in to get notified of deals and releases!
Honorable Mentions
While the top 15 covered the most notable games like Stardew Valley, there are plenty of lesser-known or early access titles that deserve a spot on your radar. These games may be a bit under the radar or still in development, but they’re full of potential for cozy game lovers.
Roots of Pacha
A farming and life sim set in the Stone Age, focusing on community, innovation, and co-op play. Beautiful pixel art and a refreshing prehistoric twist make it stand out.
Kynseed
From ex-Fable developers, this unique life sim lets you grow a family legacy over generations. It’s rich in lore, mystery, and quirky British humor.
Everdream Valley
An open-world farming game that adds magical dream adventures with your animal companions. Still evolving in early access but already charming.
APICO
A beekeeping sim that blends crafting, biology, and conservation with adorable visuals. Perfect for players looking for a slower, more educational experience.
Spirittea
Think games like Stardew Valley meets Spirited Away — manage a bathhouse for wandering spirits in a cozy pixel world. Recently released and packed with charm.
Fae Farm
A magical farming sim with spellcasting, exploration, and cozy multiplayer. It brings soft fantasy vibes to the life-sim genre.
These titles may not be as well-known yet, but they’re great choices for anyone looking to go beyond the usual picks and discover something truly special.
Conclusion
There’s no shortage of charming, cozy worlds to get lost in. Whether you’re planting your first crop, making new pixelated friends, or just soaking in a slow-paced afternoon of fishing and crafting, the magic of games like Stardew Valley lives on in many beautiful forms.
The games on this list — and the honorable mentions — all offer that same spark of joy, creativity, and calm that cozy gamers crave. No matter your platform or preferences, there’s a wholesome escape waiting for you.
Did we miss one of your favorites?
Drop a comment and share your go-to cozy game — we’re always looking to expand the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the best games like Stardew Valley in 2025?
Ans. Some of the best games like Stardew Valley include Story of Seasons, My Time at Portia, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Spiritfarer, and Rune Factory 4 Special. These games offer farming, crafting, and town-building elements with relaxing or emotional gameplay.
Q2. Are there any farming games without combat?
Ans. Yes! If you prefer farming sims without combat, titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Littlewood, and Garden Story are great options. These games focus purely on farming, friendship, and community-building with a peaceful pace.
Q3. Can I play these cozy games on my phone or tablet?
Ans. Many of the games mentioned in this list are available on mobile platforms, including games like Stardew Valley, Graveyard Keeper, and Spiritfarer. Check the app store or Google Play to see which ones are available for your device!
Q4. What if I’m on a budget?
Ans. If you’re looking for affordable, cozy games, many of these titles go on sale during Steam, Nintendo, and Xbox seasonal sales. Additionally, services like Xbox Game Pass offer several games in this genre for a low subscription fee. Keep an eye out for bundles on sites like Humble Bundle for extra deals!
Q5. How can I try these games before purchasing?
Ans. Many indie games offer demos on platforms like Steam or the Nintendo eShop, allowing you to try before you buy. If a game is in early access, you can usually buy it for a reduced price while still getting access to the ongoing updates.