Sometimes the winter season can be a struggle, especially those in regions where the weather dips below freezing and the sun sets by 5 PM instead of 8 PM. If you are feeling sluggish or down as a result of the winter, video games may help perk you up–especially if you’re stuck indoors. What are some feel-good video games that can help you combat the winter blues?
Author’s Note: This is not medical advice. If you feel impacted by Season Affective Disorder (SAD), please contact your health care provider…
Because it the dull gray skies and shorter days, I always felt that vibrant colors would be a feast for the senses. Games such as Chicory: A Colorful Tale, ANTONBLAST, Penny’s Big Breakaway, Super Mario Odessey, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder have an art style certain to cheer you up. The bright colors are cheerful and lively and certain the energize those grayscale afternoons.

For some, wintertime can feel isolating. While this may not be my cup of tea, I believe engaging in high quality (or at least high “fun”) multiplayer games will keep you engaged with others–and with human interaction, you are less likely to feel alone. Some fantastic examples range from new and old options such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords (available on NSO), TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, Tekken 8, Baldur’s Gate 3, and Helldiver’s II.
Lastly, we have your cozy games, such as farming sims. Sometimes you just need to snuggle under the blankets and experience a cathartic release by organizing your vegetable patch or managing your theme park. Some of these are obvious options, but I also provided other examples as well: Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Roller Coaster Tycoon, Roots of Pacha, A Little to the Left, Quilts & Cats of Calico, and Pioneers of Pagonia.

What are some of your go-to games when the winter season gets you down? Share some of your favorites on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.
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The Boss Rush Podcast – A Podcast about Video Games – is the flagship show of the Boss Rush Network and Boss Rush Media. Each week, hosts Corey Dirrig and LeRon Dawkins are joined by friends, fellow creators, indie developers, and industry veterans to discuss the latest in the world of video games, including news, rumors, new releases, and what they’ve been playing. They also answer listener questions, debate important industry topics and Boss Rush Banter discussion points, and feature a rotating weekly segment. New episodes post every Monday.
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