The Retreat into Cozy Games
For many young adults, especially those in Gen Z, buying a home has become less attainable in recent years. As a way of coping, a growing number are turning to a new genre of video game known as “cozy games.”
Take France, for example. According to INSEE, more than 20% of people ages 15 to 24 were unemployed as of 2023. At the same time, the average price of real estate rose by about 30% between 2013 and 2023. With statistics like these, Gen Z’s dreams of homeownership have become more uncertain, and in some cases, feel out of reach entirely. In response, many have flocked to cozy games where they can build and decorate digital homes, manage virtual lives, and share their creations—all without worrying about down payments or bank loans.
Building Digital Worlds
Cozy games come in several flavors, from farming management titles like Stardew Valley and Farming Simulator, to life simulators such as The Sims, Tomodachi Life, and Animal Crossing, and even pure building experiences like Minecraft. Long-running franchises—including Warcraft and Pokémon—have recently begun adding decorating features to cater to this booming demand. Games like “Midnight” and “Pokopia” expanded these options, giving players more ways to customize virtual spaces. These games meet a deep desire for escapism: a chance to control their environment when real-world limitations bite hard.
Creativity Finds a Home
When expressing creativity in a real apartment or house is tough—because of finances, rentals, or lack of space—many young people turn to video games to develop their artistic side. The 2020 launch of Animal Crossing during the COVID-19 lockdowns is a prime example. Players worldwide shared an array of digital creations, building personalized islands that suited them perfectly. At a time when people were literally confined to their own homes, Animal Crossing became the year’s top-selling game by letting players craft their ideal living space down to the last detail, unbound by reality’s costs or constraints.
A Digital Escape Valve
For a generation worried about what tomorrow might bring, cozy games offer a much-needed escape. What might look like childish play to outsiders is actually a digital way to fulfill real ambitions—at least on screen. As IndieGameJoe wrote in Dazed magazine:
It’s not just about placing furniture; it’s a form of personal expression. When the economy or housing market feels like a losing game, people look for systems where the rules make sense.
In games, hard work and creativity are immediately visible—and often rewarded. These titles provide a haven where the main objective is to create beauty and calm, in a world where the player is entirely in charge. When real daily routines drag long and opportunities are scarce, cozy games offer a tranquil digital spot where almost anything is possible.
Other games have emerged to satisfy different needs. Simulation titles like Planet Zoo and Cities Skylines let players try out dream jobs, while racing games such as Mario Kart and Forza provide an escape for those who can't or don’t want to get a driver’s license.
