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Conor Mckeown, Lecturer in Digital Media, University of Stirling

Cosy gaming: how curling up with Animal Crossing is changing what it means to be a gamer

Cosy gaming is creating a community for gamers outside of traditional stereotypes. Shutterstock

Where once the finishing touch for our sofa-based oasis may have been a book or a romantic comedy, consumers are increasingly reaching for their Nintendo Switch or laptops to enjoy the comforting monotony of low stakes and high rewards.

“Cosy gaming”, as it has been dubbed by players, can best be understood by the games associated with it. Chief among these are Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Stardew Valley, The Sims and Spiritfarer.

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