I’m looking to set up a co-op video game night with my friends and I’m looking for suggestions for a cozy game we can all play together virtually. We all enjoy Stardew Valley but we’ve all played it and I’d like to start something new with them. Looking for ideas that would allow me to walk away from the computer if I need to take care of my kids but still allows my friends to continue playing.

Here’s some parameters to narrow down the list:

  • switch, Steam, or GOG availability
  • can walk away and not die without having to pause for my friends
  • preferably affordable
  • lower graphics requirements, we all have older hardware
  • game controller compatible
  • fun to play over multiple short sessions
  • either 2 player or up to 4 players

Thanks everyone in advance!

Edit: I’m so excited with all the suggestions! I realized I should put co-op in the title and add the number of players. Might be anywhere between 2 and 4. Even the single player suggestions I’ve been getting are so up my alley I’m excited to check them out. This was my first post on this platform and it’s been amazing thank you!

  • Zarobi@aussie.zoneEnglish
    7·
    3 days ago

    I also recommend Palworld as others have suggested. Or Valheim, for it’s darker grim cousin.

    Maybe unconventional recommendation, but FFXIV has an extremely generous, unlimited time free trial. Like hundreds of hours of free trial. Most of it’s dungeons and content is designed for roughly 4 players concurrently (tank, healer, 2dps), though every class does lots of damage so nobody is just standing there bored. There’s combat of course as an MMO but it’s pretty relaxed pace most of the time. But this is a big commitment of course.

    Core Keeper is basically Stardew Valley + Minecraft. You kill bosses and stuff but also mostly gather resources and farm and upgrade gear.

    Factorio and Satisfactory has multiplayer, if you enjoyed the automation and progression part of Stardew Valley.

    Raft you are on a raft at sea — you all work together to upgrade your raft.

    I’ve heard good things about Dinkum and Grounded and Coral Island but haven’t tried them yet.

    • mushroommunk@lemmy.today
      2·
      6 hours ago

      You missed a big plus for FFXIV - it’s controller support is next level. People successfully do end raids with a controller just fine.

      If MMOs are on the table Lord of the Rings online should also be looked at. Peak cozy

    • Purpsle@sh.itjust.worksOP
      1·
      6 hours ago

      Thank you so much for your detailed reply! These are all amazing suggestions and I cannot wait to give them a go

    • Killer_Tree@sh.itjust.works
      3·
      20 hours ago

      +1 for Dinkum (Think multiplayer animal Crossing but with minimal combat, progression, and Stardew Valley-esk day timer instead of real time) Also +1 for Grounded, it’s more survival crafting and combat but still a great vibe.