Time For Some Relaxploration
Sometimes, you just want to wander around an open space, be delighted in discovery, maybe chat with and help out a few folk, and then be done. Little to no combat, sometimes - but not always - a nice story, maybe a few light puzzles to keep your brain ticking, but nothing too strenuous. Do some relaxploration, if you will.
Submerged: Hidden Depths
Freed from the clutches of the ill-fated Google Stadia, this expanded follow up to the original underrated Submerged just has this vibe about it’s world. There’s a mournful beauty to it’s flooded apocalypse, with a fun world to explore all it’s nooks and cranny’s to boot.
Lupa
Search for your missing cubs as a mother wolf in this gorgeous stylised semi-open world. There’s some jank, but it’s a pretty short ride which helps ease any frustration.
Resonance of the Ocean
Free
A little adventure game about collecting bits and pieces the float to shore from the ocean, and turning your treasures into instruments to communicate with the beyond.
Lighthouse Keeper
It’s up to you to repair and maintain the lighthouse on this little island. collect materials, do some crafting and engage in some light survival mechanics as you go about your task.
Paradise Marsh
An adorable little adventure about catching bugs, chatting with constellations and just enjoying what nature has to offer. Definitely a true gem that deserves its 98% positive score!
Moon Runner
Free
Mini Death Stranding on the moon! The only one in the list the has a decent amount of combat mixed in with its relaxploration. Well, to be honest… the “relax” part of that phrase is probably a bit disingenuous here, but eh. Gain some upgrades, destroy some turrets and discover the truth about what lies beneath.
A Day of Maintenance
This line on the game’s itch page sums it up better than I ever could: "I want a kind-of-technical driving game with a little gay romance but also some discussion over robot worker consciousness. (With crane operation gameplay)".
Queer Man Peering Into A Rock Pool.jpg
A bizarre yet thoughtful journey following a middle aged queer man wandering an island trying to re-furnish his house.