Autonomous sensory meridian response, or ASMR, is a sensation in which visual or auditory triggers fire off synapses in the brain that create a pleasant, calming feeling, also referred to as “tingles.” For more gaming gear recommendations, check out Total Apex Gaming! Here is the list of the best ASMR video games.
Platforms: PC, macOS & Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS & Android
Genres: Indie game, Role-playing video game, Adventure game
Release date: 26 February 2016 Awards Golden Joystick Awards – Breakthrough Award (2016)NAVGTR Awards – Simulation Game of the Year (2016)
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Genres: Adventure game, Social simulation game
The Game Awards – Best Family Game (2020)
Japan Game Awards – Game of the Year (2020)
Developer: NintendoIn New Horizons, you move to a deserted island as part of Tom Nook’s “Deserted Island Getaway Package.” You start with just a tent and a few supplies, and over time, you develop the island into a vibrant, bustling community. The game doesn’t have a strict storyline—you’re free to play at your own pace.
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4
Genres: Survival game, Action-adventure game, Nonlinear gameplay
Release date: 17 may 2009 Awards: Golden Joystick Awards – Still Playing Award (2019 & 2020) Spike Video Game Awards – Best Independent Game (2011) Developer: Mojang Studios At its core, Minecraft is a sandbox game where players explore a blocky, procedurally generated world made of cubes. There are no specific goals, meaning players can play however they want—building, mining, crafting, farming, fighting mobs, or just exploring.Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch
Genres: Adventure game, Indie game, Simulation, Casual game, Adventure
Release date: 2 August 2016
Developer: Giant Squid ABZÛ is a beautiful underwater exploration game where you play as a mysterious diver exploring a vast, vibrant ocean. There’s no dialogue or combat—just peaceful discovery. The story unfolds wordlessly as you swim through ancient ruins, help marine life, and uncover the secrets of a forgotten civilisation.Platforms: PlayStation 3 & 4, PC (Epic Games Store & Steam), iOS
Genres: Adventure, Indie
Release date: 13 March 2012 Awards: Game Developers Choice Awards – Game of the Year (2013) BAFTA Games Awards – 5 major category wins, including Artistic Achievement and Original Music (2013) D.I.C.E. Awards – Game of the Year (2013) Developer: thatgamecompany Explore the ancient, mysterious world of Journey as you soar above ruins and glide across sands to discover its secrets. Play alone or in the company of a fellow traveler and explore its vast world together. It’s known for its artistic visuals, emotional storytelling, and unique multiplayer experience—all without a single word of dialogue.Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Mac operating systems, Xbox One
Genres: Life simulation game, Casual game, Strategy video game, Simulation game, Free-to-play, Adventure
Release date: 2 September 2014 Developers: Maxis, The Sims Studio, Blind Squirrel Games In The Sims 4, you create Sims from scratch, design their personalities, shape their appearances, build homes, and guide them through the ups and downs of life. The game has no specific goal, letting players craft their own stories—whether that’s creating drama, building a peaceful family, or even locking Sims in pools with no ladders (classic).More must-reads:
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