Best Cozy Games On Steam That Are RPG Games
Published: Thu Sep 26 2024
Table Of Contents
What are the best cosy RPG games on Steam in 2024?
Seeking a digital sanctuary that marries the warmth of cozy games with the immersion of RPGs? Steam’s extensive catalogue boasts a wealth of titles that seamlessly blend laid-back gameplay with rich narratives and character growth. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into five exceptional cozy RPGs made even better by the ability to play them on the steam deck; assessing them based on key elements that define both the cozy and RPG genres. Expect ratings based on how relaxing and easy the gameplay progression is, or how deep and cozy the story is!
| ✓ Progression | ✓ Story Depth | ✓ Combat | ✓ Character Development |
| ✓ Graphics |
Rune Factory 4 Special 4.5
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Nintendo Switch
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
Game Features
- Single Player
- Farming simulation
- Dungeon exploration
- Relationship building (including marriage)
- Crafting
Check out our previous blog on Rune Factory 4 Special here!
Rune Factory 4 Special emerges as a shining example of cozy RPGs, offering an unparalleled fusion of farming simulation, relationship building, and classic RPG elements. This enhanced version of the beloved 3DS game brings its charm to PC, delivering a multifaceted gameplay experience that’s both soothing and captivating.
Progression
In Rune Factory 4 Special, advancement feels like a gentle stroll rather than a frantic race. Players can cultivate their skills at a leisurely pace, be it through tending crops, crafting items, or exploring mysterious dungeons. The game never imposes a sense of urgency, allowing for a stress-free journey as you gradually enhance your abilities and expand your agricultural domain. The seamless integration of various gameplay elements ensures that every activity contributes meaningfully to your overall growth, crafting a satisfying and cozy progression arc.
Story Depth
The narrative woven throughout Rune Factory 4 Special is a tapestry of warmth and intrigue. While it may not reach the philosophical depths of some RPGs, it compensates with a charming blend of slice-of-life moments and fantastical adventures. The game’s story unfolds like a comforting novel, revealing layers of mystery and character development that keep players invested without overwhelming them. From royal conspiracies to heartwarming town events, the narrative strikes a perfect balance between depth and coziness.
Combat
Battle mechanics in Rune Factory 4 Special offer a delightful mix of simplicity and engagement. The combat system is intuitive enough for casual players to enjoy, yet it harbors enough depth for those seeking a challenge. Players can wield a variety of weapons, each with unique playstyles, adding a layer of strategy to encounters. The ability to bring tamed monsters into battle adds a fun twist, making combat feel like a cooperative adventure rather than a solo struggle.
Character Development
Where Rune Factory 4 Special truly shines is in its robust character development system. Each villager in the game feels like a fully realized individual, with their own quirks, backstories, and growth arcs. As you forge friendships and potentially romantic relationships, you’ll uncover layers to these characters that make the town feel alive. The inclusion of character-specific events and dialogues that change over time creates a sense of genuine connection, making every interaction a cozy and rewarding experience.
Graphics
While not cutting-edge, the visual presentation of Rune Factory 4 Special exudes charm and warmth. The art style strikes a perfect balance between anime aesthetics and fantasy elements, creating a world that feels both familiar and magical. Character designs are expressive and endearing, while the environments, from lush fields to mysterious dungeons, are rendered with attention to detail. The game’s graphics serve as a comforting visual blanket, enveloping players in a world that’s a joy to inhabit.
Rune Factory 4 Special stands as a paragon of cozy RPGs, offering a rich, relaxing experience that caters to various playstyles. Whether you’re in the mood for farming, dungeon crawling, or simply chatting with villagers, this game provides a warm, inviting world that’s hard to leave.
Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & The Secret Hideout 4.3
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available on:
- Nintendo Switch
- Steam Deck
- PC
- PlayStation 4
Game Features
- Single Player
- JRPG
- Alchemy and crafting system
- Turn-based combat
- Character relationships
Atelier Ryza brings a fresh breeze to the cozy RPG genre, blending alchemical crafting with laid-back adventure. This entry in the long-running Atelier series offers a perfect gateway for newcomers while providing depth for series veterans.
Progression
Advancement in Atelier Ryza feels like a gentle alchemical reaction, bubbling along at a comfortable pace. The game’s progression revolves around gathering materials, synthesizing items, and gradually unraveling the mysteries of alchemy. This system allows players to set their own goals and advance at their preferred tempo. While not as open-ended as some life sims, the progression in Atelier Ryza strikes a balance between structure and freedom, guiding players without rushing them.
Story Depth
The narrative of Atelier Ryza weaves a cozy coming-of-age tale with threads of mystery and adventure. While it may not delve into complex political intrigues, the story excels in its portrayal of friendship, personal growth, and the bittersweet nature of change. The game’s focus on Ryza’s journey from an ordinary village girl to an accomplished alchemist creates a relatable and heartwarming narrative arc. The gradual unfolding of the island’s secrets adds just enough intrigue to keep players invested without sacrificing the overall cozy atmosphere.
Combat
Battle mechanics in Atelier Ryza offer a unique twist on turn-based combat. The real-time tactics system allows for a more dynamic flow of battle while remaining accessible to players who prefer a relaxed approach. While not as central to the game as crafting, combat serves as a enjoyable complement to exploration and gathering. The integration of alchemical items into battle strategies adds a layer of creativity, allowing players to experiment with their synthesized creations.
Character Development
Atelier Ryza shines in its portrayal of character growth and relationships. The core cast of characters feels like a group of real friends, each with their own dreams, flaws, and development arcs. As you progress through the story, you’ll witness these characters mature and change, mirroring Ryza’s own journey. The game’s focus on friendship rather than romance creates a wholesome, cozy atmosphere that’s refreshing in the RPG landscape.
Graphics
Visually, Atelier Ryza is a feast for the eyes. The game’s art style brings its world to life with vibrant colors, detailed environments, and expressive character designs. From sun-drenched fields to mysterious ruins, each location is crafted with care, inviting players to stop and admire the scenery. The attention to detail in item and costume designs adds to the game’s charm, making every new synthesis and outfit change a visual treat.
Atelier Ryza offers a cozy RPG experience that’s perfect for players seeking a relaxing adventure with depth. Its focus on crafting, friendship, and personal growth creates a warm, inviting world that’s a joy to explore.
Sea Of Stars 4.2
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
Game Features
- Turn-based combat
- Pixel art graphics
- Nostalgic JRPG-style gameplay
- Story-driven adventure
Sea of Stars emerges as a modern love letter to classic JRPGs, offering a cozy gaming experience wrapped in nostalgic pixel art. This indie gem manages to capture the essence of beloved 16-bit era RPGs while introducing fresh mechanics and a captivating story.
Progression
Advancement in Sea of Stars strikes a harmonious balance between traditional RPG leveling and a more relaxed approach. The game’s progression system allows players to grow stronger at a steady, comfortable pace without the need for excessive grinding. Skill acquisition feels meaningful, with each new ability adding depth to both combat and exploration. The absence of random encounters contributes to a more laid-back progression, allowing players to engage in battles at their own discretion.
Story Depth
The narrative of Sea of Stars is where the game truly sets itself apart. It weaves a tale that’s both epic in scope and intimate in its character moments. The story delves into themes of destiny, friendship, and the cyclical nature of time, all while maintaining a cozy, approachable tone. The game’s world feels alive with lore and history, inviting players to uncover its secrets at their own pace. The balance between lighthearted moments and more serious plot points creates a narrative that’s engaging without becoming overwhelming.
Combat
Battle mechanics in Sea of Stars offer a refreshing take on turn-based combat. The inclusion of timed hits and combo attacks adds an element of engagement without sacrificing accessibility. The combat system is intuitive enough for casual players to enjoy, yet it harbors enough depth to satisfy those seeking a challenge. The variety of skills and the unique interplay between characters’ abilities keep battles fresh and exciting throughout the journey.
Character Development
Sea of Stars excels in crafting memorable characters with distinct personalities and growth arcs. The main cast is well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that unfold naturally as the story progresses. While the character development may not be as extensive as in some life simulation RPGs, the bonds formed between characters feel genuine and heartwarming. The inclusion of optional conversations and side quests allows players to delve deeper into character relationships at their own pace.
Graphics
Visually, Sea of Stars is a stunning homage to 16-bit era RPGs, elevated by modern lighting and effects. The pixel art is meticulously crafted, bringing the game’s world to life with vibrant colors and intricate details. Dynamic lighting and day/night cycles add depth to the 2D environments, creating a sense of atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Character designs are distinctive and expressive, conveying personality through simple yet effective pixel art.
Sea of Stars offers a cozy RPG experience that successfully marries nostalgia with modern game design. Its engaging story, charming characters, and beautiful visuals create a world that’s a joy to explore, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a relaxing yet captivating RPG adventure.
Eastward 4
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- PlayStation 5
Game Features
- Single Player
- Action-adventure RPG elements
- Pixel art graphics
- Puzzle-solving
- Character-switching mechanics
Eastward presents a unique blend of action-adventure and RPG elements, wrapped in a cozy, post-apocalyptic setting. This indie title stands out with its stunning pixel art and heartwarming story, offering a journey that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Progression
Advancement in Eastward follows a more structured path compared to open-ended life sims. The game guides players through its story chapters, with progression tied closely to narrative developments. While this approach may feel less relaxed than some cozy games, it creates a sense of purpose and direction. The gradual introduction of new abilities and areas to explore provides a satisfying sense of growth, even if it’s not always at the player’s preferred pace.
Story Depth
Eastward’s narrative is a tapestry of emotion, mystery, and charm. The game weaves a tale that’s both intimate in its character focus and grand in its world-building. As you journey across a world recovering from catastrophe, you’ll uncover layers of history and intrigue. The relationship between the two main characters, John and Sam, forms the heart of the story, offering moments of warmth and poignancy. The game’s ability to balance its post-apocalyptic setting with cozy, slice-of-life moments creates a unique and engaging narrative experience.
Combat
Battle mechanics in Eastward offer a blend of real-time action and puzzle-solving. The combat system is straightforward, focusing on timing and positioning rather than complex combinations. While not as deep as some RPGs, the combat serves its purpose in complementing the exploration and storytelling. The ability to switch between characters adds a layer of strategy, with each character offering unique abilities that are useful in both combat and puzzle-solving.
Character Development
Eastward shines in its portrayal of its central characters, John and Sam. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the game, with their bond growing and evolving throughout the journey. While the focus on these two characters means less development for the supporting cast, the depth of their characterization more than makes up for it. The game excels in showing character growth through actions and interactions rather than explicit stat increases, creating a more organic and emotionally resonant form of development.
Graphics
Visually, Eastward is a masterpiece of pixel art. The game’s world is brought to life with intricate details, vibrant colors, and expressive animations. Each location feels distinct and alive, from bustling underground cities to eerie abandoned facilities. The character designs are charming and memorable, conveying personality through simple yet effective pixel art. The game’s use of lighting and particle effects adds a modern touch to the retro aesthetic, creating a visual style that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Eastward offers a cozy RPG experience that stands out with its unique setting and stunning visuals. While its more structured progression and combat might not appeal to all cozy game fans, its deep story and charming characters create a world that’s a joy to inhabit.
Moonlighter 3.8
Ratings (Out of 5)
Available On:
- Steam Deck
- PC
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
- iOS
- Android
Game Features
- Single Player
- Dungeon crawling
- Shop management simulation
- Roguelite elements
- Pixel art graphics
Moonlighter offers a unique twist on the RPG formula, blending dungeon crawling with shop management. This indie gem provides a cozy experience that’s perfect for players who enjoy a balance of action and relaxation.
Progression
Advancement in Moonlighter follows a satisfying loop of dungeon exploration and shop management. Players progress by gathering resources in procedurally generated dungeons, then selling their finds in their shop to upgrade equipment and expand their business. This cycle creates a relaxed yet purposeful progression system, allowing players to set their own pace and goals. The balance between the excitement of dungeon diving and the coziness of shop keeping provides a unique and engaging progression experience.
Story Depth
While Moonlighter’s narrative isn’t as deep or complex as some RPGs, it offers a charming tale of a shopkeeper with dreams of heroism. The story is largely told through environmental details and item descriptions, allowing players to piece together the lore of the world at their own pace. This approach to storytelling creates a cozy atmosphere where players can engage with the narrative as much or as little as they wish. The game’s focus on the protagonist’s personal journey of balancing his dual roles adds a relatable and heartwarming element to the story.
Combat
Battle mechanics in Moonlighter offer a fun and accessible action RPG experience. The combat system is straightforward yet engaging, with a variety of weapons that cater to different playstyles. The inclusion of dodge rolls and a shield adds a layer of strategy to encounters without overwhelming players. The gradual introduction of new enemy types and boss battles keeps the combat fresh throughout the game. While not as complex as some RPGs, the combat in Moonlighter strikes a good balance between challenge and accessibility.
Character Development
Character growth in Moonlighter is primarily expressed through equipment upgrades and shop improvements rather than traditional leveling. While this system fits well with the game’s concept, it may feel limited compared to RPGs with more extensive character development. However, the satisfaction of seeing your shop grow and your combat abilities improve provides a tangible sense of progress. The game’s focus on the protagonist’s journey from shopkeeper to hero creates a unique form of character development that’s both cozy and inspiring.
Graphics
Visually, Moonlighter is a treat for the eyes. The game’s pixel art style is charming and detailed, bringing both the village and the dungeons to life with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Character and enemy sprites are expressive and well-animated, adding personality to every interaction and battle. The contrast between the warm, inviting atmosphere of the village and the mysterious, sometimes eerie dungeons creates a visually diverse and engaging world. The attention to detail in item designs makes the shop management aspect of the game particularly satisfying.
Moonlighter offers a cozy RPG experience that stands out with its unique blend of dungeon crawling and shop management. While it may not have the deepest story or character development, its engaging gameplay loop and charming visuals create a world that’s both relaxing and exciting to explore.
In conclusion, these five games represent a diverse range of cozy RPG experiences available on Steam. From the farming and relationship focus of Rune Factory 4 Special to the unique shop management of Moonlighter, each game offers its own take on what makes a cozy RPG. Whether you’re looking for deep storytelling, relaxing progression, or charming visuals, there’s something here for every fan of cozy gaming.