What Game Should I Play? Video Game Recommendations for Every Mood

So, you’re bored. We get it. Most of the world is stuck in lockdown, and there are only so many things you can do around the house before you get bored. In these quarantined times, video games can be a godsend. They give you a distraction from the real world and something fun to do to fill the time. But after a while, you might hit a slump. Even the task of choosing a game can start to feel overwhelming or just plain dull. Don’t worry if you can’t quite decide what to play next. We’ve got your back with video game recommendations for every mood, so you can get over your slump and into your next great distraction!

If you’re itching for some action…

Our Recommendation: The Witcher 3

Why It Works: The Witcher 3 is the perfect choice if you’re craving an action-packed RPG. Between slaying monsters and travelling throughout the dangerous world in search of rare armor, this game will keep you busy for a long, long time. It’s worth noting that the combat in The Witcher 3 is actually tough – while still being fun – so it will hold your attention a lot longer than some of the less challenging options out there.

If you want to cause some mayhem…

Our Recommendation: Grand Theft Auto V

Why It Works: If you’re looking to misbehave in a virtual world, there is no better franchise than GTA. But Grand Theft Auto V really takes it to the next level. You can rob banks, steal cars, mow down police left and right – even shoot down a plane. Bottom line, if you’re in the mood for wreaking havoc, you simply can’t do better than this ode to excess.

If you’re stressed out and need to relax…

Our Recommendation: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Why It Works: This game is currently a Nintendo Switch exclusive, but it’s worth getting your hands on if you can. The scenery is lush and gorgeously rendered. The world is large and the game is set up to encourage exploration. If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery paired with a calming soundtrack, this is the game for you. And the best part? Even though it’s an extremely relaxing and pleasant game, there is plenty of action and a compelling storyline to keep you from losing interest.

If you want to feel productive…

Our Recommendation: Stardew Valley

Why It Works: Available for PC, Mac, Linux, and multiple consoles, this game is extremely accessible and a great way to unwind while feeling productive at the same time. There is so much to do in this game that you’re sure to feel productive – plant the fields of your late grandfather’s farm and watch your crops grow; raise animals; go fishing; craft items; explore the surrounding caves; and customize your character and home decorations. You can literally see the fruits of your labor in Stardew Valley, making it the perfect game to play when you want to feel productive.

If you want to learn something new…

Our Recommendation: Kerbal Space Program

Why It Works: Have you ever wanted to be a rocket scientist? (And really, who hasn’t?) Trust us, this is the game for you. The goal of Kerbal Space Program is to help a fictional race advance their space program so that they can visit other worlds beyond their own. The game is extremely accurate when it comes to physics, and long-time players can start to pick up the basic principles of physics, rocket science, and mechanics. It’s even been used as part of the curriculum in schools. Plus, NASA supports it! What more do you need to know?

If you want to scare yourself…

Our Recommendation: Silent Hill 2

Why It Works: While there is a whole host of truly great scary video games to choose from, the nightmarish Silent Hill 2 is our pick. Considered a horror masterpiece, this is a truly disturbing game. We repeat: It’s not for the faint of heart. So if you prefer to avoid the psychological torture and gore of the horror genre, we’d recommend choosing something a little milder – Five Nights at Freddy’s relies more on jump scares than blood and viscera, but will still scare the pants off you if played in the dark of night.

If you’re feeling lonely…

Our Recommendation: Minecraft

Why It Works: It’s a classic for a reason, and it might be just what you need right now! Minecraft is creative, constructive, and fun. Not only is it available across multiple platforms, making it super accessible, but it’s also cross-functional, so you can play with a friend who has a different console than you. Most importantly, Minecraft has plenty of opportunities to interact with other players – the game allows groups of up to eight players meet online, explore, and work together to build amazing structures. It’s the perfect choice if you’re lonely and looking for a little virtual socialization!

If you’re missing home…

Our Recommendation: Animal Crossing: New Leaf

Why It Works: Yes, this is an older installment than the currently trending Animal Crossing: New Horizons. But hear us out. Animal Crossing: New Leaf is probably the game you rushed home from school to play – it will remind you of simpler times when you were a kid. And whether you’re a student away at college or quarantined in a city far from where you grew up, it’s pretty normal to be missing home right now. If you can get your hands on it, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is the perfect game for you because you just can’t beat the sense of community it provides. It feels just like any hometown, filled with zany characters and cozy details. If you don’t have your old 3DS, however, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is designed for the current Nintendo Switch console and should work just as well to give you that quintessential homey feeling.

If you’re wishing you could travel…

Our Recommendation: Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Why It Works: While any game with a strong sense of place will do, our pick is Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Set in ancient Greece, the graphics are top-notch and the world offers so much to explore. While you can’t exactly travel to Greece as a tourist in real life right now, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a virtual romp through Greece in its heyday. You’ll visit Athens, Mykonos, Sparta, and dozens of other locations inside the game – no passport required!

So, will you be playing any of our game recommendations? Did we name any of your favorites, or is there something we missed that you think should be on the list? How are you holding up in quarantine? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or send us a message on social media!