As October ushers in the season of cozy vibes, it’s the perfect moment to delve into games that evoke the warmth of autumn rather than the chill of horror. With the cozy game trend gaining momentum, discerning which titles are truly worth your time can be a delightful challenge. Whether you’re seeking something with a hint of witchcraft or a touch of the mysterious, here are some top picks for your October gaming experience.
Reka
Find it on: Steam (Steam Deck mostly playable), GOG
This classic illustrated text adventure game invites players to curl up with a warm drink and immerse themselves in a captivating fantasy narrative. As the new warden of a countryside filled with perilous wildlife and suspicious townsfolk, your mission is to navigate obstacles—be they fallen trees or obstinate mayors—while uncovering trade opportunities. The game requires you to manage travel, food supplies, and rest as you delve into towns, all while unraveling mysteries of magic, disappearances, and ancient rituals.
Kynseed
Find it on: Steam (Steam Deck verified), GOG
At first glance, Kynseed may remind players of Stardew Valley, but it quickly reveals itself as a whimsical blend of farming and folklore. After an idyllic start on a family farm, the narrative takes a turn into the bizarre, with capricious deities and unsettling landscapes. This game allows players to experience generational farming while forging friendships and rivalries, all set against a backdrop that feels both enchanting and eerie. The cooking minigames will appeal to fans of Studio Ghibli’s culinary artistry.
Potion Craft
Find it on: Steam (Steam Deck verified), GOG, Nintendo Switch
In Potion Craft, the focus shifts from running a shop to the art of potion-making itself. Players engage in the tactile experience of grinding herbs, stirring cauldrons, and crafting unique labels for their brews. The joy of experimentation is at the heart of this game, as players explore the properties of ingredients to discover new recipes. The hands-on mechanics create an immersive alchemical experience that feels quintessentially witch-like.
Wytchwood
Find it on: Steam (Steam Deck verified), GOG, Nintendo Switch
Wytchwood offers a crafting adventure experience steeped in folklore and whimsy. Rather than hoarding resources for profit, players gather materials to solve puzzles as they traverse a storybook landscape. With a cauldron as a helmet, you’ll encounter bandits, trick wolves, and collect ingredients from mythical creatures, all while unraveling a narrative rich in autumnal charm.
Beacon Pines
Find it on: Steam (Steam Deck verified), GOG, Nintendo Switch
Beacon Pines presents a narrative adventure where players collect words instead of items, crafting their own story paths reminiscent of classic “choose your own adventure” tales. Set in a quaint town with a dark past, players guide young animal protagonists as they unravel the mystery of disappearing townsfolk. The interactive storytelling allows for exploration of various outcomes, making each playthrough a unique experience as you piece together the narrative puzzle.
