BETA
Chapter 1
The roots of relaxation
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Chapter 2
The indie revolution
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Chapter 3
The pandemic boom and mainstream explosion
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Chapter 4
The psychology of cozy
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The rise of cozy games
Ch 4 · The psychology of cozy
diegoplays Cozy Gaming Psychology
No game over screen, just planting some green, finally letting my mind breathe.
diegoplays Many cozy games embrace solarpunk, showcasing a sustainable and eco-friendly future.
diegoplays Cozy games satisfy human needs for control and mastery through simple tasks.
Fun Fact
Spiritfarer therapy: The developers of Spiritfarer consulted professional grief counselors to ensure their cozy game about dying was emotionally supportive.
Glossary
self-determination theory (noun)
A psychological framework stating that human motivation is driven by the needs for autonomy, competence, and connection. In 2025, Dr. Rachel Kowert used this framework to explain how comforting video games support mental health.
A psychological framework stating that human motivation is driven by the needs for autonomy, competence, and connection. In 2025, Dr. Rachel Kowert used this framework to explain how comforting video games support mental health.
Quiz
Which 2020 cozy game describes itself as a cozy management game about dying, where you guide spirits to the afterlife?
Quiz
According to self-determination theory, what human need is satisfied when players master simple, rewarding tasks like farming or crafting?
Quiz
In the game Spiritfarer, what is the name of the main character who takes over the role of ferrymaster to the deceased?
Quiz
What eco-friendly aesthetic movement, combining nature and sustainable technology, is highly prominent in modern cozy games?
Quiz
What hormone, associated with stress, is shown to decrease when players engage in low-stress, cozy video games?
Quiz
Why do cozy games typically avoid permanent game over screens or harsh failure states?
Quiz
What psychological concept refers to the satisfying feeling of control and self-governance that cozy games offer players?
Quiz
Which Canadian developer studio created the emotional, grief-focused cozy game Spiritfarer?