If a tree is chopped down in a forest, and nobody is around to hear bees getting to work with their stingers – does it make sound? Likewise, if it's New Year's Eve and you don't boot up Animal Crossing: New Horizons to celebrate the countdown with your villagers, does the event happen? Logically, I know that it didn't, but over the years Animal Crossing has crafted such a vibrant world that my heart can't accept that. I know that even when absent, Animal Crossing goes on without me, whether I like it or not. Even though the code might not be running, that feeling it creates within me is still a true one.
Ever since falling in love with Animal Crossing: Wild World on Nintendo DS, I've gone through phases of enjoying the series, dipping in and out of certain entries, skipping others altogether. Animal Crossing fits the definition of a cozy game – relaxing life-sims, games like Stardew Valley are welcome escapes from the drudgery of the real world where you can impose your own order and time. They might come with their own time pressures, but largely fit into chunks of play time in your real life. But, unlike many imitators, it feels like Animal Crossing resists bending to the player's will – it's there to welcome you and totally can be one of the best relaxing games out there, but it doesn't exist solely at your whim.
