The Best Cozy Game Nintendo Will Never Make

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Comfort games are currently trending and have been for some time. However, it was in 2020 when their popularity soared significantly due to their distinctive feature of simulating life in a digital environment, providing, at that moment, an appealing refuge from the real world filled with issues. Since then, they’ve continued to be popular, with games such as Stardew Valley and Disney Dreamlight Valley standing out among many. The primary catalyst for this 2020 resurgence was Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the main comfort game available on Nintendo Switch.

Other than Animal Crossing, Nintendo doesn’t produce many games that fit into the “cozy” category. However, the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 are great for playing these kinds of games due to numerous third-party indie games available on them. When it comes to Nintendo’s own cozy games, there aren’t many options outside of Animal Crossing. Although Nintendo might not create more cozy games, there’s a perfect opportunity for another one if they decide to make one.

Hyrule is the Perfect Cozy Game Setting

As a gaming enthusiast, traversing through the breathtaking landscapes of both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom has given me a unique perspective on Hyrule’s serene beauty. When not in the throes of battle or crisis, this realm seems like an idyllic haven to call home.

The tranquil snowfall in the Hebra Region and the soothing rain showers of Faron make you appreciate the journey rather than rushing through it with fast travel. Though navigating these environments can be challenging at times, it also adds a sense of authenticity that makes Hyrule all the more captivating.

At the heart of it all, that’s where a potential charming game experience unfolds. When Link isn’t engaged in battles with demons or working to save the realm, there are numerous enjoyable activities to partake in within Hyrule. The tranquility found at stables and villages is simply captivating, and this is one of the reasons it can be effortlessly forgotten that you are on a perilous main quest in those two particular games. Other Zelda games possess similar elements, but none quite compare to these.

In the core of things, there’s an opportunity for a relaxing game experience. When Link isn’t battling demons or saving the world, there are lots of fun activities in Hyrule that can make you forget about the risky main quest in those games. Other Zelda games have some of these elements, but not as much as these do.

The possibilities are plentiful indeed! In this hypothetical game, many charming titles could include managing a farm, but that’s not all it has to offer. Players might instead assume the role of a shopkeeper in Kakariko Village or establish a gear store in Hateno Village. If you remember the various jobs taken by NPCs in those games, players could potentially replicate them in this peaceful Zelda game. They could work as miners with the Gorons, construct buildings with Bolson Construction, or even run a traveling shop like Beedle’s. Imagine their delight when they encounter Link or Princess Zelda during their adventures, opening up exciting interactions for players to pursue!

Nintendo, Sadly, Isn’t Likely to Make This

Nintendo predominantly focuses on its major franchises while limiting the number of spin-offs, with Mario being the primary exception. Most spin-off series, such as Mario Party, Mario Kart, or any sports games featuring Mario, were developed long ago and no other series has received similar treatment. The Legend of Zelda, aside from the Hyrule Warriors series, doesn’t see much spin-off development, and when characters from this franchise are used, it is usually for a significant game.

It’s evident that Nintendo isn’t exploring much in the area of casual gaming from their own studios. The Animal Crossing series has been successful since 2001, but Nintendo hasn’t ventured beyond this series in this genre. This suggests they aren’t keen on expanding it, even though a blend of these two popular gaming communities could create an exceptional series.

Why The Legend of Zelda Needs This Spin-Off

As a devoted fan, I’d enthusiastically express that this presents a unique chance for Nintendo to branch out and innovate! For years, they’ve been refining their first-party franchises, but with little significant change. There have been alterations in the style of games like The Legend of Zelda, notably Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, yet they still adhere to a familiar structure. This new project would offer them an exciting opportunity to demonstrate their ability to explore fresh approaches, even within established series.

This approach could also offer an opportunity for them to utilize established intellectual properties in innovative ways, possibly leading to the creation of new cozy games or games set within these famous franchises without necessarily being linked to them directly. For instance, they might develop a game based on the Pokémon universe, without necessarily creating a main Pokémon series title. This is applicable to Super Mario, Animal Crossing, and many more. The potential is vast, but Nintendo needs to initiate this shift, fostering diversity and offering a fresh perspective for a nearly 40-year-old franchise, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air.

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2025-09-02 20:09