Cozy Games Releasing in 2026 to Keep on Your Radar

2026 is shaping up to be a truly comforting year for cozy games. From peaceful life sims to gentle exploration adventures, there are so many upcoming titles that feel perfect for slowing down and getting lost in. Below is a list of cozy games coming out this year that I am personally looking forward to, along with their expected release windows and platforms, so you can start planning which worlds you want to sink your time into.

Heartopia | January 2026 | PC (Steam), Mobile (iOS, Android)

• Developer & Publisher: XD International
• Genre / Cozy Style: Multiplayer life simulation game
• Core Gameplay: Creating and customizing your character, building and decorating your own home, trying out different hobbies and activities, and forming meaningful connections with friends in a calm, shared world.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Mobile (iOS, Android)

Heartopia immediately stood out to me for its cozy multiplayer experience paired with its live service model and promise of regular content updates. I love the idea of having things to work toward years down the road while sharing a lively world with other players. Having played both cozy games and multiplayer titles, this feels like a perfect blend of the two. Between the shared world, ongoing activities, and life sim elements, it gives off a warm and welcoming cozy vibe.

Shanty Town | April 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer: Erik Rempen
• Publisher: Kinephantom Games
• Genre / Cozy Style: Diorama-building city simulation game
• Core Gameplay: Creating and arranging urban dioramas, building and customizing different spaces, bringing new locations to life, and filling every nook and cranny with personal touches at a relaxed, creative pace.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

Shanty Town feels refreshing thanks to its unique art style and heavy emphasis on decorating and customization. Since I have never played anything quite like it, I am excited to jump in and experience it for myself once it releases. Exploring new, visually striking locations while decorating freely sounds incredibly comforting. The creativity, personalization, and relaxed pace give it a cozy charm that really stands out.

Outbound | Q2 2026 | PC (Steam), Epic Games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

• Developer & Publisher: Square Glade Games
• Genre / Cozy Style: Open-world exploration and crafting game
• Core Gameplay: Starting with an empty camper van and turning it into your dream home, exploring an open world at your own pace, scavenging and crafting modular upgrades, managing energy and technology, and adapting to changing landscapes and environments.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Epic Games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

Outbound feels like a refreshing take on open world exploration, blending crafting and decorating in a way that feels both new and inviting. The idea of customizing an adorable camper van really stands out to me, especially with the freedom to pack everything up and move whenever I want. Being able to explore a variety of beautiful biomes while always returning to a familiar, personalized space gives the experience a grounded and comforting feel.

Witchbrook | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox

• Developer: Chucklefish, Robotality
• Publisher: Chucklefish
• Genre / Cozy Style: Life simulation, social RPG
• Core Gameplay: Starting your life as a new resident witch in the seaside city of Mossport, building friendships and finding love, exploring a world full of magic and mystery, and progressing through charming storylines with up to four players.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox

Since its initial announcement in 2018, I have been eagerly waiting for the release of Witchbrook. Its beautifully vibrant pixel art, cozy atmosphere, and stunning variety of locations had me hooked from the very beginning. The idea of playing as a witch, learning witchcraft, and attending classes has me genuinely excited for when the game finally releases. While it has been delayed a few times, I remain hopeful that this extra time will result in a fully polished experience. The magical setting, pixel art charm, and slower, routine driven gameplay all give Witchbrook a comforting, cozy appeal.

Animula Nook | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), Epic Games, Nintendo Switch 2, Playstation 5, Mac OS

• Developer & Publisher: LilliLandia Games
• Genre / Cozy Style: Open-world exploration and crafting game
• Core Gameplay: Shrinking into a cozy miniature world and exploring among giant everyday objects, collecting sunlight and raindrops, building dream homes, and befriending whimsical little folk.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Epic Games, Nintendo Switch 2, Playstation 5, Mac OS

Animula Nook is a game that only recently came onto my radar, and I am so glad it did. If you have ever loved the idea of being tiny in a big world, like in the movie "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" or games such as "Grounded" & "It Takes Two", but wanted something more relaxed and cozy, this game fits perfectly. I am excited to explore a fresh environment and experience the creativity that comes with navigating a shrunken world filled with familiar objects. From the trailer alone, everything looks incredibly adorable, and the building system seems like a lot of fun. Exploring everyday objects from a new perspective while taking things at a slower pace makes this experience especially comforting.

Starsand Island | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch 2

• Developer & Publisher: Seed Lab
• Genre / Cozy Style: Life simulation game
• Core Gameplay: Creating and customizing your player character, starting your life back in your childhood town of Starsand, choosing a career path like farming, ranching, crafting, exploration, or angling, and nurturing friendships and romance with the island’s NPCs.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch 2

Starsand Island draws me in with its beautiful visuals and strong life simulation focus. I am especially excited to bond with adorable animals, spend time fishing, and slowly explore everything the island has to offer. The tranquil island atmosphere, charming art style, and laid back gameplay make it feel like the kind of cozy experience you can truly relax in.

Petit Planet | TBD 2026 | PC, Mobile (iOS, Android), Consoles TBA

• Developer & Publisher: miHoYo
• Genre / Cozy Style: Cozy game, life simulation
• Core Gameplay: Taking care of and customizing a small planet of your own, planting and gathering resources, fishing and crafting useful items, meeting friendly characters, exploring connected areas, and enjoying cozy daily activities like decorating, cooking, and collecting at a relaxed pace.
• Platforms: PC, Mobile (iOS, Android), Consoles TBA

If you are a big fan of miHoYo or any of the games this developer has made, this will feel like a treat. The idea of being able to pick your own planet, decorate it to your heart’s content, and then explore and visit other planets immediately grabbed my attention. I have played nearly all of miHoYo’s current games, and I never expected them to move in a cozy direction, but I am genuinely excited to dive in when this releases. Being able to play alongside other players while building up a personal home planet and exploring the wider universe sounds incredibly fun. From everything I have seen so far, this feels like a great addition for fans of live service games. The focus on customization, exploring alongside others, and taking things at a relaxed pace is what draws me to this experience.

Wish Upon a Llama | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer & Publisher: Millionhare Studios
• Genre / Cozy Style: Cozy role-playing game
• Core Gameplay: Breeding and raising adorable animals like bunnies, capybaras, and horses, building meaningful relationships with the residents of Llama Town, discovering unique animal breeds, and befriending townsfolk along the way.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

I am a huge sucker for beautifully crafted pixel games, and Wish Upon A Llama definitely falls into that category. The stunning visuals, animal breeding and raising, and the ability to build relationships with NPCs are what initially drew me in. From what I have seen so far, there will be a wide variety of animals to care for at launch, which sounds incredibly rewarding. The NPCs feel thoughtful and engaging, with unique dialogue that helps the world feel more alive. The combination of gentle exploration, collecting, and nurturing animals gives this game a warm, comforting atmosphere.

Beastro | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), Xbox Series X|S

• Developer & Publisher: Timberline Studio
• Genre / Cozy Style: Cozy fantasy cooking adventure game
• Core Gameplay: Cooking and preparing delicious meals as your main tool, exploring a charming fantasy world, helping others through food and adventure, and using your culinary skills to make an impact in the world.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Xbox Series X|S

If cooking is your favorite part of any cozy life simulation game, then Beastro feels like a perfect match. The way it blends storytelling, cooking, and a strong sense of purpose within its world immediately stands out to me. Playing as a chef who helps support a peaceful village while also preparing meals for brave adventurers is a refreshing twist on the genre. I love the idea that preserving peace starts in the kitchen, balancing everyday restaurant life with the larger story unfolding beyond the village walls. The focus on cooking for others and supporting the village through everyday routines is what draws me to this game.

Collectors Cove | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer & Publisher: Voodoo Duck
• Genre / Cozy Style: Cozy farming adventure game
• Core Gameplay: Sailing to uncharted waters with your animal companion, cultivating and expanding your floating farm, discovering new islands, crops, and fish, and progressing on your cozy high-seas farming adventure.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

Another game that just recently came onto my radar, Collector’s Cove is a vibrant title with a unique twist on the farming sim genre. Its peaceful, no combat approach and open sea setting really stood out to me. The idea of tending to a floating farm while slowly sailing between new islands feels incredibly calming. I love the mix of farming, fishing, and discovering different climate zones, especially with the added goal of filling out a Collector’s Compendium, which really speaks to me as a huge collector. Being able to personalize your ship and turn it into a true home makes the experience feel more personal. Traveling alongside an animal companion and taking everything at a relaxed pace is what makes Collector’s Cove feel cozy to me. The combination of open ocean exploration, personal progression, and a loyal animal companion creates a relaxing experience I can easily sink hours into.

IKUMA: The Frozen Compass | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), Epic Games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

• Developer & Publisher: Mooneye Studios
• Genre / Cozy Style: Narrative adventure game
• Core Gameplay: Journeying through a frozen wilderness alongside a loyal dog, navigating harsh conditions, uncovering a dark and emotional story, and experiencing a story-driven adventure that can be played alone or with a friend.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Epic Games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

IKUMA looks to be a promising adventure exploration game with an emotionally driven narrative and a unique mechanic that lets you explore as the main character while also switching to your dog companion. What stands out to me most is the focus on teamwork and companionship while navigating an unfamiliar and harsh environment. Exploring the island, gathering resources, and uncovering its story alongside a loyal husky adds a strong sense of connection to the experience. The slower, deliberate pacing and emphasis on working together make this feel like a more reflective and quietly comforting adventure.

Hela | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam), Playstation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2

• Developer: Windup
• Publisher: Knights Peak
• Genre / Cozy Style: 3D puzzle adventure game
• Core Gameplay: Exploring beautiful Scandinavian-inspired environments as a brave mouse, solving puzzles along the way, and experiencing heartwarming storytelling woven into the natural world.
• Platforms: PC (Steam), Playstation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2

I have been anticipating the release of Hela since it was first announced in 2024. The idea of playing as a brave, adorable mouse while adventuring through distant yet familiar landscapes immediately captured my interest. I am also a huge sucker for story driven exploration, so the promise of a heartwarming narrative makes this one especially exciting to me. Exploring Scandinavian inspired environments, solving puzzles, and gathering ingredients to help a kind witch feels thoughtful and purposeful. Seeing the world from such a small perspective, paired with its calm pacing and emotional focus, is what really draws me to this experience.

Loftia | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer & Publisher: Qloud Games
• Genre / Cozy Style: Cozy multiplayer life simulation game
• Core Gameplay: Working together with others to grow food, craft useful items, explore shared spaces, decorate your surroundings, and contribute to a thoughtful, community-focused world at a relaxed pace.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

If you enjoy titles like "Heartopia", then this game is for you. Loftia immediately stands out to me as a cozy multiplayer world that puts creativity and community at the center of the experience. I love the idea of customizing a personal floating island while also coming together with others to form neighborhoods and contribute to shared projects. The mix of farming, crafting, decorating, and exploring new islands feels full of variety without ever sounding overwhelming. What really draws me in is the focus on sustainability and personalization, from upcycling materials to designing a home and character that truly reflect your style. The sense of building something meaningful alongside friends, at your own pace, is what makes Loftia especially appealing.

Tiny Shop | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer: ScoreboardGames
• Publisher: Spaghetti Cat
• Genre / Cozy Style: Shop management simulation game
• Core Gameplay: Decorating and managing your own cozy shop, arranging furniture and stocking shelves, selling goods to visitors, and interacting with customers in a relaxing, slow-paced setting.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

Tiny Shop immediately appeals to me with its focus on creating a warm, inviting space that feels personal. Running a small shop, helping customers, and choosing items to sell sounds both relaxing and rewarding. I also love the quieter evenings spent decorating, rearranging furniture, and setting up the shop for the next day. The ability to design a shop with care and attention, without feeling rushed, is what makes this game so inviting to me.

Haunted Paws | TBD 2026 | PC (Steam)

• Developer & Publisher: LazyFlock
• Genre / Cozy Style: Co-op horror adventure game
• Core Gameplay: Creating your puppy character, exploring eerie mansion environments together as a team, facing off against spooky creatures, and working to rescue your human friend in a cozy yet adventurous co-op experience.
• Platforms: PC (Steam)

This game caught my eye for the absolute adorableness of it. I am excited to choose my favorite type of dog, customize them, and work together to solve a mystery and rescue our human owner. The blend of cute puppy behaviors with spooky environments feels like a fun and unique contrast. Playing cooperatively while exploring haunted spaces, uncovering secrets, and facing off against eerie creatures sounds exciting without being overwhelming. Experiencing a spooky adventure through the playful perspective of puppies, especially alongside a friend, is what makes this one really stand out to me.

Disclaimer: All images shown belong to their respective developers and publishers. I do not own any of the images used.