Happy International Women’s Day! I don’t know about you, but I like to celebrate IWD by supporting cool things woman have made. And that includes video games!
Here are some cozy video games created by teams led by women and other gender-marginalized developers!
1. Unpacking – Great for zen puzzle lovers
Unpacking is a beautifully crafted zen puzzle game that turns the simple act of unpacking into an engaging, meditative experience. There are no timers, no scores, and no pressure — just you, your new home, and a collection of items to arrange. The game combines elements of block-fitting puzzles with home decoration, letting you organize everything from kitchenware to personal trinkets, creating your own satisfying living space with each move.
The real charm of Unpacking lies in its ability to tell a rich, emotional story without ever showing the protagonist’s face or using a single word. As you carefully place each item in their new spots, you slowly piece together the life of the character you’re unpacking for. From framed photos to worn-out books, every object carries a piece of the past, revealing something personal about the character’s journey through various stages of life.
Accompanied by a soothing soundtrack from BAFTA award-winning composer Jeff van Dyck, Unpacking is more than just a game about moving into a new space—it’s about reflection, connection, and the comfort of home. It’s a perfect fit for anyone looking to relax and dive into a world that feels both familiar and deeply meaningful.
Already played Unpacking? I have suggestions for other cozy games like Unpacking to pick up next!
Read our full Unpacking review here.
2. Pro Philosopher 2: Governments & Grievances – For fans of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney
Pro Philosopher 2: Governments & Grievances picks up where the cult classic Socrates Jones: Pro Philosopher left off, throwing you into heated, high-stakes debates with history’s greatest thinkers. But this time, we’re leaving moral philosophy behind and diving straight into the chaotic world of political philosophy. What makes a government just? How do power and ideology shape society? And, most importantly—why does every 18th-century philosopher have such strong opinions about your mom?
Step into the shoes of Ariadne Jones, a college student with no patience for nonsense—until she’s yanked into yet another surreal philosophical afterlife, where debates shape reality and personal drama gets uncomfortably intertwined with world-shaking political thought. When her estranged mother suddenly appears in this strange realm, Ariadne has no choice but to confront the big questions she’s been avoiding, including IS MY MOM EVEN ALIVE?!
Your goal? Break down arguments, find contradictions, and absolutely demolish your opponent’s logic—all using real-world reasoning techniques. Never played the first game? No worries—Pro Philosopher 2 is completely standalone. But if you’re curious, the original is free to play, and the first chapter of the sequel is available in a free demo.
3. Golf Peaks – Great for movement-based puzzle lovers
Forget everything you know about golf (or, let’s be real, forget golf entirely). Golf Peaks is a relaxing yet clever and cozy puzzle game that swaps clubs for cards, turning the sport of golf into a satisfying brain teaser. Your goal? Conquer over 120 handcrafted levels by strategically choosing movement cards to send your ball rolling, bouncing, and soaring up misty mountain peaks.
It’s golf, but not as you know it—no bogeys, no birdies, just pure puzzle-solving satisfaction. Each course is a miniature challenge where you’ll need to outthink sand traps, water hazards, and even trickier obstacles that aren’t exactly “PGA-approved.”
With its clean, minimalist art and intuitive mechanics, Golf Peaks is the perfect game to chill out with—whether you’re a puzzle pro or just looking for a cozy, clever way to pass the time. So, are you ready to tee off and reach the summit?
4. Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly – For fans of visual novels…and coffee!
The coffee shop is open once again, and the night is yours to fill with comforting brews and heartfelt conversations. Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly brings you back to its cozy, rain-soaked world, where humans and fantasy beings alike gather for late-night chats over steaming cups of perfectly crafted drinks. As the barista, your job isn’t just to serve beverages—it’s to listen, to connect, and maybe even change lives, one sip at a time.
In this sequel to the beloved Coffee Talk, you’ll reunite with familiar faces and meet intriguing new patrons, all with their own struggles, dreams, and stories to share. With an expanded menu of ingredients, fresh mysteries to uncover, and even more ways to shape your customers’ experiences, Hibiscus & Butterfly serves up another unforgettable round of urban fantasy storytelling.
Pour a drink, settle in, and let the stories unfold. Whether you’re here for the cozy vibes, the branching narratives, or the quiet joy of serving the perfect cup, Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly is ready to welcome you back.
5. inbento – Great if you love pattern-matching puzzle
Ever wanted to make the perfect bento lunch but without the stress of actual cooking? inbento serves up a delightfully cozy puzzle experience where you arrange adorable lunchboxes, solve over 120 handcrafted recipes, and follow the heartwarming story of a cat family growing up together.
Inspired by Japanese bento culture, inbento is all about thinking inside the box—literally. Each puzzle presents you with a picture-perfect meal to recreate, using a limited selection of ingredients that you’ll rotate, swap, and stack into the right order. But don’t be fooled by its cozy vibes—these culinary brainteasers get trickier as you go, introducing clever mechanics that will keep even puzzle pros on their toes.
6. Tavern Talk – For high fantasy visual novel lovers
You walk into a tavern… but this time, you’re the one behind the bar. Tavern Talk is a cozy, choice-driven visual novel set in a vibrant, D&D-inspired fantasy world, where your drinks, conversations, and rumors shape the fate of adventurers—and maybe even the world itself. But beyond the warm glow of your tavern’s hearth, a looming darkness stirs. Every drink you pour, every rumor you spin into a quest, and every bond you forge could tip the scales of fate.
As the owner of the Wayfarer’s Inn, you’re more than just a barkeep. With an ever-expanding menu of magical brews, you can stir up courage, ignite ambition, or soothe weary souls. The tales you hear from adventurers aren’t just idle chatter—they’re the seeds of grand quests, and you have the power to guide them toward fortune, peril, or something in between.
Like any great TTRPG campaign, Tavern Talk isn’t just about adventure—it’s about connections, choices, and the stories we create along the way. Whether you’re here for the cozy vibes, the heartwarming (or heart-wrenching) tales, or the chance to play matchmaker between adventurers and their fates, there’s always a seat waiting for you at the Wayfarer’s Inn.
You can read my full Tavern Talk review here.
7. Flutter Away – Great if you like hidden object puzzles
Take a deep breath, step into the lush greenery, and let the sounds of the rainforest guide you—Flutter Away is a cozy, short-form nature exploration game that invites you to slow down and savor the beauty of the Amazon. As a butterfly researcher on a peaceful five-day camping trip, you’ll wander scenic trails, take photos of rare wildlife, and journal your discoveries—all at your own pace.
There’s no rush, no stress—just the gentle joy of uncovering the wonders of the rainforest. Spot hidden frogs among the leaves, marvel at vibrant flowers, and even befriend a shy capybara with a secret to share. Whether you’re capturing the golden glow of sunset, listening to a waterfall’s soothing rhythm, or gazing up at a sky filled with stars, Flutter Away delivers a quiet, heartfelt escape into nature.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk, a photography adventure, or simply a moment to unwind, Flutter Away offers a beautifully crafted retreat into the heart of the wild. Set up camp and begin your journey!
8. Love, Ghostie – Great for fans of dating sims…er, matchmaking sims?
Welcome to Love, Ghostie—a cozy and charming matchmaking sim where you play as an adorable ghost with one goal: helping the residents of your manor find true love! Whether you’re pairing up hopeless romantics, grumpy softies, or the two most unlikely lovebirds in the house, every romance is yours to create.
As a friendly spectral matchmaker, you’ll nudge your residents toward love by gifting them thoughtful presents, orchestrating secret dates, and unlocking heartfelt moments. Each of the 12 residents has a unique personality, and with 66 possible couple combinations, no two playthroughs are the same!
With a single run lasting 3-6 hours and dozens of romances to explore, Love, Ghostie is perfect for anyone who loves cozy storytelling, heartwarming connections, and a little ghostly mischief. Are you ready to play Cupid from beyond the grave?
9. Railbound – Great if you love trains + difficult puzzles
Hop on board Railbound, a charming and relaxing track-bending puzzle game where you’ll lay down rails, connect train cars, and guide a pair of adorable dogs on a journey around the world. With over 240 cleverly designed puzzles, Railbound is as soothing as it is satisfying—whether you’re gently linking up train cars or tackling mind-bending track layouts.
Your mission? Place, remove, and reroute tracks to make sure each carriage reaches the locomotive in the right order—without causing a railway disaster! From gentle introductory levels to tricky bonus challenges, Railbound keeps things fresh with train-inspired mechanics like tunnels, railway barriers, and track switching.
Whether you’re in the mood for a chill puzzle session or a real track-laying challenge, Railbound is the perfect ticket to a cozy, rewarding experience. Get ready to lay down some tracks and hear that satisfying choo-choo!
10. Mycelium Heaven – Great for those who enjoy Sokoban logic puzzles
In Mycelium Heaven, you’ll step into the role of a peculiar mushroom on a mission to save its home. But this isn’t your average fungus—it’s got a taste for zombies! In this cozy yet challenging puzzle game, you’ll use your wit and strategy to grow, expand, and consume your way through the forest, devouring the undead in your path.
The gameplay revolves around using energy to spread, bloom, and consume, with each action bringing new challenges and mechanics that keep you on your toes. There’s no need for complex tutorials—just dive right in and explore this quirky, fungi-filled world. As you progress, you’ll unlock new abilities and face even more creative puzzles that require careful planning and quick thinking.
The zombie apocalypse has already arrived, and it’s up to you and your mushroom to stop it!
11. Gas Station Simulator – Great for fans of business sims
Ever dreamed of running your own gas station in the middle of nowhere? In Gas Station Simulator, you take an abandoned, dust-covered pit stop and turn it into a thriving business. Renovate, expand, and serve customers while managing time, stock, and employees—all in the middle of a bustling desert highway.
Start by renovating the space—cleaning up debris, fixing broken equipment, and restoring the station to its former glory. As your business grows, you’ll expand with new services like a convenience store, car repair workshop, and even a car wash, all while customizing your station to make it a true roadside attraction. Balancing the daily rush, you’ll manage fuel sales, stock shelves, repair cars, and handle impatient customers, while hiring and managing employees with unique skills to keep things running smoothly. Stay on top of your inventory, order fuel and goods at the best prices, and expand your warehouse for better storage as you build your dream station.
Whether you love micromanaging every detail or just want to enjoy the challenge of running a business, Gas Station Simulator puts you in the driver’s seat. What are you waiting for? Go pump some gas and build your roadside empire!
12. Grimoire Groves – Great if you like pastel rogue-lites
In Grimoire Groves, you’ll join a group of witches on a quest to restore a once-beautiful forest full of magical creatures and plant life. A colorful rogue-lite dungeon crawler, this game blends witchcraft, foraging, and the mystery of the legendary Rainbow Socks into a delightful cozy witchy adventure game.
In Grimoire Groves, you’ll master witch magic by unlocking new spells and experimenting with the balance of all four elements to create a unique magical style. As you forage, collect fruits, craft powerful spells and items, and cultivate adorable plant creatures, you’ll work to repopulate the forest.
Along the way, you’ll befriend elusive forest spirits and bring them home to restore balance, boosting both their magic and your own. Embark on a quest to unravel the mystery of the mythical Rainbow Socks while discovering what disrupted the harmony of the groves, and decorate your cottage with magical items to enhance your powers and support the forest’s restoration.
Whether you’re mastering magic, growing quirky plant creatures, or uncovering ancient mysteries, Grimoire Groves offers an enchanting journey where every spell casts a little more life back into the forest!
13. Merchants of Rosewall – Great for players who like shopkeeper sims
Step into the shoes of a new Merchant in the vibrant city of Rosewall, where the art of trade has replaced the need for weapons and war. In Merchants of Rosewall, you’ll manage your own bustling shop in a fantasy world where commerce reigns supreme. As you craft artisan goods, hire talented Companions, and meet the demands of an ever-changing market, you’ll uncover a mystery that could shake the very foundations of this peaceful city.
Rosewall is a city built on the strength and ingenuity of its people, and as a newcomer, you’ll need to navigate its cultural and commercial landscape. The Estoq Trading Company sets quotas that you’ll need to meet, but with limited resources and a growing staff of quirky and talented Companions, you’ll have to manage your time and money wisely. Each employee brings unique skills and stories to the table, helping you craft goods and unlock recipes that will give your shop the edge it needs.
But it’s not all smooth sailing in Rosewall. As you balance the pressures of a demanding job, you’ll face challenges like fickle clients, unreliable suppliers, and personal dilemmas from your staff that could affect your business. The stakes get even higher as you begin to uncover secrets from the past that could change how you view the city, your shop, and even the very people you work with.
14. Critter Crops – A Creative creature collector X farming sim
Step into the colorful world of Mutter Island as Sylvie, a young witch with a unique talent for growing magical creatures known as Critter Crops. After being driven out of her hometown for her extraordinary abilities, Sylvie finds herself on a new adventure, tasked with restoring the island to its former beauty.
Critter Crops isn’t just about farming and critter care—it’s about exploration, resource gathering, and forging new relationships. As Sylvie, you’ll explore different areas of the island, mining, gathering, and even helping to rebuild Mur Mur Town. The more you grow and level up your critters, the more you’ll unlock new areas and abilities, creating a dynamic progression system that keeps things fresh. There are 24 unique critters to discover, each with special conditions for growth.
As Sylvie restores the island, she’ll also encounter others who, like her, are seeking refuge on Mutter Island. Chat with newcomers, learn their stories, and build relationships through the Friendlees Social Media app. Whether you’re helping them settle into new homes or surprising them with thoughtful gifts from Ama-Zomb, you’ll find that every action contributes to the blossoming life on the island.
15. A Tavern for Tea – A short fantasy tea-brewing adventure
In A Tavern for Tea, you take on the role of the owner of a quaint little tavern on the edge of a vast domain—a place where demons and humans coexist just beyond the door. But unlike any ordinary tavern, this one serves no ale. Instead, it’s all about tea. Travelers from all walks of life are mysteriously drawn to your humble establishment, seeking solace in a warm cup brewed just for them.
This charming fantasy tea-brewing simulator and visual novel invites you into a heartwarming narrative that unfolds in under an hour. As you interact with your two main customers, you’ll uncover a story of missed connections and unspoken emotions. The beauty of A Tavern for Tea lies in its simplicity and depth: the joy of brewing a cup of tea that’s just right, and the quiet satisfaction of helping others find peace.
The game is filled with cute, hand-drawn art, a relaxing soundtrack, and an atmosphere that’s as warm as the tea you serve. And after the main story, there’s an unlockable gallery and even an after-hours tea brewing experience for those who want to dive deeper into the world of tea and its calming, transformative power.
16. Shinehill – Early access RPG farming sim
In Shinehill, you’re tasked with a mission that’s anything but ordinary. As a spy on a mysterious island, you’ve been thrust into a new life under strange circumstances. Mistaken for a new neighbor, the locals offer you a house and a plot of land—completely unaware of your true identity. Now, as you blend into your new surroundings, you’ll need to navigate the charm of village life, farming, fishing, cooking, and, of course, keeping your secret safe. It’s a unique mix of exploration, community-building, and suspense.
The heart of Shinehill lies in your relationships with the townspeople. You’ll need to win their favor by proving yourself through your skills and achievements. From mastering the art of fishing to growing a successful farm, impressing the villagers is key to uncovering the island’s secrets. But as you get closer to the locals, you’ll start to uncover a darker truth about this idyllic paradise.
Is Shinehill truly the perfect island getaway, or is there something more sinister lurking beneath its peaceful facade? As you build your new life, you’ll learn more about your neighbors, their stories, and the hidden dangers they might be keeping secret.