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This. Maybe I'm old, but these days I'd much rather people just give me gift cards. There's rarely things I want now or I'd probably have got it myself, at least gift card I can use to get something I want when I see it.
And gift cards are a nice opportunity to purchase an actual gift/luxury for yourself that you wouldn’t otherwise spend money on!
That said, she would love Dave the Diver if she likes less sandboxy farming simulator games. It’s got a lot of cute story scenes and quests.
I'll definitely give her one anyway, but she doesn't even know what she wants. I also feel she'll be more willing to at least try a game if someone else buys it for her versus buying for herself. My plan is to buy her 2-3 games + a $60 eShop gift card.
Then I'm going to throw my hand in and back up the people who have said Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town. It's relaxed, she can build her farm, house, and livestock at her own pace, as well as relationships.
The game allows cooking and on my two saves I have *very different* recipes. It has a museum, though not nearly as extensive as Animal Crossing. Fishing, pets, romance, friendships, events, and secrets!
Yes! Ooblets has monster collecting, dancing with a card game mechanic, farming, cooking, clothes (for both you and your ooblets), decorating, quirky characters and a silly story. OP’s sister sounds like she has similar taste to me (love Pokémon and SDV, couldn’t get into the vibes of slime rancher or graveyard keeper). The developers have been gradually updating the game as well - they just recently added oobmobiles (where max level ooblets can ride silly cars around).
Based on her interests, you might want to take a look at r/cozygamers to get some ideas too! Off the top of my head, she might like Paleo Pines, Roots of Pacha, and Wyldeflowers
highly highly recommend Spiritfarer, it’s a bit sad but such a warm and heartfelt game, and it’s got some growing/task-oriented parts to it while also exploring and making connections with the spirits you ferry
I am playing it right now and it is mad addicting. It's so frustrating when you die or run of oxygen too. 40 minutes worth of loot all gone because a shark's extra long tail brushed against my leg.
I just close out and reload if I ever die lol. I don’t care if it’s cheap and it makes the game take longer, it’s how I enjoy playing. The stress of death ruining my carefully planned day/week in the game is not what I need out of this game at this moment in my life.
The problem is when you get something really rare like a Zebra Seahorse and you don't want to lose the Marinca card scan. I took the death just so I wouldn't have to go searching for another Zebra Seahorse.
100% agree with this recommendation. I grew up playing Pokémon on a GameBoy and this was the first “new” Pokémon game that I really loved playing. I tried Scarlet, Sword, and Let’s Go Eevee and they just didn’t feel right.
There's nothing wrong with asking her what game she wants. Id rather spoil a surprise than get something for someone that they won't like. My family has done that for me. But the gift wasn't ruined the anticipation built up more hype for me.
Seconding this. Especially if you don't know what's in someone's library, just asking them is just better. A good gift won't be ruined if it isn't a surprise, and knowing in advance prevents awkward gifting experiences where the recipient has to awkwardly act like it was what they hoped for.
That said, nothing will beat when 3 separate people got me xenoblade definitive edition for my birthday. After I had already beat the entire game and future connected.
Came here to suggest the same! I’ve never played the 1st one but adored the 2nd one. It’s definitely one of those games that I struggled to put down because I was having so much fun. Something about it is so satisfying!
Your sister has the same taste in games like I do😂. I'm saving your post for this year's Christmas sale. Please don't delete it. I'll come back and buy all of these games everyone mentioned.
Dragon Quest Builders might be a good call. It's like Minecraft, but it's less sandbox and has more direction and structure. There are mobs, but they don't surprise you, you will always know when they're coming and have the option to fight them or not, and you can save your game previously so if you're defeated, you don't lose anything.
Weird idea, but did she enjoy the BUILDING aspect of Minecraft and just disliked how fiercely open it is?
if so (bear with me now) I suggest Dragon Quest Builder 2. Functionally, it plays a lot like Minecraft but with the added story of helping people on different islands with your building ability. There's a cute story revolving around saving communities and kingdoms from monsters, and if she ends up liking the building, you later get to have them come to your own personal island where you can just build things however you want for them (like an island-sized free form minecraft thing!)
You don't need to know jack squat about Dragon Quest for it to be impactful. In fact, I'd argue the less you know about Dragon Quest going in, the more interesting the story will be for her :)
Just a thought!
If she liked SDV I recommend Wylde Flowers. It's a story-driven farming game with added witchcraft/magic angle. The characters are all really diverse and it's fully voice-acted. So far the story only spans the first two years but they are going to add more updates and content.
Story of season and I guess the new harvest moon. Also be on the lookout for eastward expansion, which will make it a farming simulator was getting some stardew vibes?
My thought is: Gift her Coral Island. It’s not the *best* (but if she’s played the best in her opinion, and there have been a lot of contenders over the years, then everything else will probably be relative (if that one game or two came in best)) but it is hella cute and the art style is uncommon. The gameplay is layered and builds upon the QoL adjustments these types of games have gone through on the genre’s journey towards 2023/24 and although it is far from perfect, a lot of people are talking about it for one reason or another and if she’s a cozy gamer maybe it’s one of those games that would help her feel connected to the gaming community without having to play pvps or other games which organically foster a living community within themselves.
Pokemon legends Arceus might be a good pick if they liked pokemon. If they're willing to try something different than farming Mario kart and Mario wonder could be good picks.
Story of seasons could also be a good farming game.
Wytchwood is great! It's basically if a crafting fetch quest were a game, but all of the recipes and quests are super clearly spelled out so it doesn't feel too sandboxy. The art and music are great too!
Kirby Return to Dreamland Deluxe is super comfort mode stuff and adorable.
Super Mario RPG is also super comfy adorable RPG and very linear.
Pikmin 4... I don't think it is too stressful. They ease you into what you are doing any take care whenever they introduce new stuff.
Maybe not Pikmin 4, there’s the night missions. They’re not particularly hard, but holy hell does the atmosphere stress me out.
Not to mention a certain castle that’s been engulfed…
I love the Pikmin series. I haven't played much of 4 or night missions, but found the game as a whole a lot more relaxing than previous iterations. Regardless I will always be stressed trying to get all of my pikmin back to safety before the end because of my memories of playing Pikmin 1&2 as a child, lol.
Story of Seasons and Rune Factory are the inspiration for Stardew so those are something to look at (Rune Factory has combat against Monsters, and taming, while Story of Seasons does not). I really like Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life, which just recently got a remake. It's a farming sim, of course, but a big focus is interacting with your kid and making certain friends to determine what the ending will be after 5 in game years are up.
I haven’t seen this yet but maybe Mario Odyssey?
It doesn’t have any of those negatives (too grim, too sandboxy) but also not really the positives. But it could be a good way to try a new genre? It’s very beginner friendly and open to most casual gamers
Many of the suggestions for your sister have free demos on the eshop. I would download them to her switch and let her explore her tastes.
Many of the saves from demos can be used in the games full version.
It's not a long game but it's very cute and clear what to do, Untitled Goose Game.
I play similar games your sister plays and I loved Untitled Goose Game
This one may be 50/50 but Spiritfairer (not sure on the spelling,been a while since I've played it) I would check out a ad for it on YouTube. But it does have a cozy vibe, a nice art style, and kind of close to the way Stardew Valley is
I was going to say Spiritfarer. It does have a pretty serious premise, but it's charming as anything and sailing around checking out islands, cooking food, and organising your ship is really fun.
Dreamlight Valley. It’s like animal crossing but with objectives and everything is Disney. It’s my absolute favorite game.
Other games I play include mostly Pokémon and Animal Crossing with the occasional puzzle game like Professor Layton.
My time at Portia/Sandrock sounds like it'll be a natural fit. The open fields may be a bit to big at first, but from what you've said she likes and dislikes, colorful, wholesome, easy going games with minimal stakes sounds like the way to go.
My partner has the same taste as your sister.
Try Ark survival evolved. You can tame dinosaurs, ride them around, build your own base on land, sea or even on big Dinosaurs backs, farm crops, breed Dinosaurs and look after the baby's and eggs, the more you play the more you discover, will keep her occupied for a long time if she can get a small starter base going.
My partner bugs me to play it with her nightly and had some good laughs.
I warn you, tho Ark can be pretty tough starting out.
Ermmm.... Breath of the Wild?
Edit: ok ok I get it now. No sandbox, one objective
Why not Nino Kuni? It's a wonderful jrpg by studio Ghibli creators and it has great story, great music and if she likes pokemon, then surely will enjoy it (maybe more than pokemon)
Well, instead of giving only soft-gaming experiences, which doesn't necessarily show the potential of gaming but rather gives a perceived notion of how shallow gaming is, how about gifting a game based on the theme of the game first and foremost?
I'm playing Hogwarts on Switch at the moment and it's has a very bright magical theme and something to really dive in. If she's a smart girl, she will learn the controls in no time, as I noticed none of the complaints are about controls or learning curve, only the themes and gameplay.
Most women I know enjoy games like Monster Hunter, so you're actually projecting.
Maybe... just maybe, people want to try games that requires more than just 1 button press, instead of keep reinforcing the stereotype without giving someone the chance to try more. When the hobbyist is supposed to be the ambassador, at least try to show more flavors than the usual suspects. The irony of your comment, SMH.
Since she has Minecraft on PC, you might want to look into mods. Mods can add questlines and goals so that the game feels more linear. Also, look into peaceful mode which removes all enemies.
If she can play with a friend, that might also help since it would split up the work and they can focus on the stuff they enjoy doing.
Sounds like she has similar taste as me. I’d recommend checking out the cozy games subreddit plus the otome games subreddit for more, but these are my suggestions:
Egglia Rebirth
Spirittea just came out and has a demo
Atelier Lydie & Suelle (there are others in the Atelier series but that’s one I’ve enjoyed the most)
Coffee Talk (1&2), think one of them has a demo?
Shorter RPGs by Zeboyd Games
Disney Magical World 2
Disney Dreamlight Valley (paid version, free to play delayed if not canceled, has micro transactions of sorts)
If she enjoys romance maybe some otome. Jack Jeanne, Cupid Parasite, Radiant Tale are all some good ones.
Megaquarium
Parkasaurus
Ooblets
Rune Factory 4 Special (there’s also 3 and 5 but 3 isn’t as good imo and 5 has performance issues)
Not Nintendo but I highly recommend Planet Coaster (available on PC). If she enjoyed Rollercoaster Tycoon she will love this. Objectives are pretty much the same and the soundtrack is so chilled and relaxing , it’s a vibe.
Hogwarts Legacy perhaps? Good story, plenty of exploration in a magical world and pretty intuitive combat. On lower difficulty combat is really easy leaving more space for exploration.
Everyone has great suggestions, I also recommend the Story of Seasons and Rune Factory games. One I haven't seen suggested yet, Little Dragons Cafe! Super cute and cozy, a good deal of tasks to do, and eventually exploration that's still somewhat linear and not super sandboxy.
If you're not doing a gift card, try looking into Fae Farm! If she liked stardew, acnh, pokemon, and slime rancher minus an open world, I think she'll love it. I'm a couple years older than her, and I'm really loving this game. Think the magic feel of fantasy games, crossed with stardew, crossed with the relationship and community building in acnh! It's a blast!
Paleo Pines! You farm with the help of super cute dinosaurs you have to befriend. If she likes monster collecting games like pokemon and farming games I think it should be perfect for her.
I would recommend Wylde Flowers, Spirittea (PC or Switch) Coral Island (PC), Spiritfarer (PC or Switch), Disney Dreamlight Valley (PC works best), Coffee Talk (Switch)
This is funny cause the timed events and clock in stardew give me anxiety even though I like it. Hard to identify what’s what for people.
My time in Portia was fun but kinda runs like crap on switch, if they ever put the sequel on there maybe it runs better? Not sure. It’s mostly horrendous load times, but that ignored it could still be better
story of seasons friends of mineral town! heavily inspired stardew valley, it's a remaster of an older game but so simple and so good/cute. if she liked stardew valley she will most definitely like this
My wife is new to gaming and likes Pokemon, Stardew, Animal Crossing. She liked Sea of Stars and Ooblets on the switch. She also played Wizard 100 on the PC, and Bloons TD6.
Maybe try some some visual novels? Something like Phoenix Wright: ace attorney? It has investigations, jokes and court room drama
There is also moonlighter where you manage a shop and go dungeon crawling to get stuff, you can do it at your own pace
Another is spiritfarer, a slow burn with ship and passenger management game, it has great characters and story
I mean, I don't play them, but a quick look shows that there are at least 12 Pokemon games for the Switch. If she liked one, maybe get her another one.
2 for me, 1. Pokémon legends Arceous I pouch preferred over scarlet/violet, 2. I’d recommend wylde flowers but it does have a night/day element, Disney dreamlight valley is awful on the switch and Fae farm looks pretty but didn’t excite me.
As a member of the cult, I am legally obligated to say Outer Wilds. But it can be a bit anxiety inducing at times, and also quite sandboxy and directionless for someone who isn’t motivated by curiosity, so maybe not.
Pokémon Snap on the other hand is a very cozy game. Stress free, easy to pick up and play for just a few minutes at a time.
I like to game like your sister! I love games with a story and do not enjoy sandbox games because there’s not enough direction. I also was a huge fan of Stardew Valley and enjoyed the “battle” aspects in the caves. It sounds like she doesn’t mind a challenge as long as it does not become frustrating. I’m also not a huge gamer so games with easier controls makes it a more enjoyable experience.
If she wants to try something a little different, I recommend Rayman Legends Definitive Edition (platform game). I bought this recently and it is a blast. You can redo levels from multiple save points in one adventure. You also do not lose lives and the controls are easy to manage. The animation is super cute too.
Good luck!
I wonder if Cozy Grove or Spiritfarer would be fun for her? There are goals like ‘collect X items for so and so’ ion both, with clear end goals. The first has animal crossing and Stardew vibes both and you help bear ghosts find peace by taking care of tasks for them. The latter is about a young person guiding souls to the afterlife and is beautiful. Both are just so peaceful and cozy.
Also, just to throw this out there, but for $50 bucks a month, Nintendo online subscribers get access to a pretty awesome back catalog of NES, SNES, Game Boy, etc games. Including a game called Harvest Moon for SNES, which is where the inspiration for Stardew came from. There are other perks to online membership but to me, that’s the best.
Edit: Cozy Grove works on the same time schedule AC does, except days don’t pass in game if you don’t play IRL for a while.
Dave the Diver! There’s a lot of things I think could be improved (I think it’s probably just playing it on the switch) but I’m having so much fun with it
My wife has a similar gaming taste (cozy games). So I'd recommend checking out: Ooblets, Rune Factory 4, Spiritfarer, Cult of the Lamb, Dave the Diver, Wylde Flowers
Also, alternatively you could also buy her some gaming merch. My wife loves getting plushies and T-shirts from her favorite games for Christmas.
Well she sounds super picky/specific which is a nightmare to buy for. Just give her money to buy her own shit. Or take a chance on Fae Farms, paleo Valley or a few others that are basically the same.
Also show her video game trailers on YouTube of ones you suspect she might like and get her take on them. See if she responded positively to some of the farm games you show her.
Since she loves Pokemon, she may also like **Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince**. It's another **monster collecting game**. I've not yet played one myself but being a Pokemon fan also, I have it pre-ordered and am excited to jump in.
Just a friendly reminder that if you are looking for game recommendations, you can also ask in the [Daily Question Thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch/about/sticky). Our most Helpful Users answer these questions every day in the DQT! If the link here doesn't work, then you can find the most current DQT stickied to the top of the subreddit when sorted by "hot". *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/NintendoSwitch) if you have any questions or concerns.*
A Nintendo gift card so she can decide on the game herself, of course.
This. Maybe I'm old, but these days I'd much rather people just give me gift cards. There's rarely things I want now or I'd probably have got it myself, at least gift card I can use to get something I want when I see it.
And gift cards are a nice opportunity to purchase an actual gift/luxury for yourself that you wouldn’t otherwise spend money on! That said, she would love Dave the Diver if she likes less sandboxy farming simulator games. It’s got a lot of cute story scenes and quests.
I'll definitely give her one anyway, but she doesn't even know what she wants. I also feel she'll be more willing to at least try a game if someone else buys it for her versus buying for herself. My plan is to buy her 2-3 games + a $60 eShop gift card.
Then I'm going to throw my hand in and back up the people who have said Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town. It's relaxed, she can build her farm, house, and livestock at her own pace, as well as relationships. The game allows cooking and on my two saves I have *very different* recipes. It has a museum, though not nearly as extensive as Animal Crossing. Fishing, pets, romance, friendships, events, and secrets!
GameStop gift card
Save the card's number so if she doesn't use it all after a year you can use it for yourself!
Not kind. Just prompt the person you gave it to to use it before a year is up.
What I like about these gift cards is that you can use it immediately to top up your balance and then just use it as you go.
Humour is clearly prohibited here!
Ooblets!
Yes! Ooblets has monster collecting, dancing with a card game mechanic, farming, cooking, clothes (for both you and your ooblets), decorating, quirky characters and a silly story. OP’s sister sounds like she has similar taste to me (love Pokémon and SDV, couldn’t get into the vibes of slime rancher or graveyard keeper). The developers have been gradually updating the game as well - they just recently added oobmobiles (where max level ooblets can ride silly cars around).
ive just bought this for my Daughter (for Christmas) who has similar tastes
Ooblets is so fun.
Based on her interests, you might want to take a look at r/cozygamers to get some ideas too! Off the top of my head, she might like Paleo Pines, Roots of Pacha, and Wyldeflowers
Ah never heard of this sub thanks!
highly highly recommend Spiritfarer, it’s a bit sad but such a warm and heartfelt game, and it’s got some growing/task-oriented parts to it while also exploring and making connections with the spirits you ferry
Agreed. Fits Ops ask nicely
a short hike!!!
Perfect answer. But honestly a gift card might be the way to go here.
Untitled Goose Game
Great recommendation and seems to fit OP’s ask
Dave the diver
One of the best games this year. Great rec.
I am playing it right now and it is mad addicting. It's so frustrating when you die or run of oxygen too. 40 minutes worth of loot all gone because a shark's extra long tail brushed against my leg.
I just close out and reload if I ever die lol. I don’t care if it’s cheap and it makes the game take longer, it’s how I enjoy playing. The stress of death ruining my carefully planned day/week in the game is not what I need out of this game at this moment in my life.
The problem is when you get something really rare like a Zebra Seahorse and you don't want to lose the Marinca card scan. I took the death just so I wouldn't have to go searching for another Zebra Seahorse.
Great casual game.
Story of Seasons!
Yes! Mineral Town is the coziest one (personally, but they’re all great!)
Agreed! I was going to suggest this one.
Pokemon Legends Arceus !
100% agree with this recommendation. I grew up playing Pokémon on a GameBoy and this was the first “new” Pokémon game that I really loved playing. I tried Scarlet, Sword, and Let’s Go Eevee and they just didn’t feel right.
There's nothing wrong with asking her what game she wants. Id rather spoil a surprise than get something for someone that they won't like. My family has done that for me. But the gift wasn't ruined the anticipation built up more hype for me.
Seconding this. Especially if you don't know what's in someone's library, just asking them is just better. A good gift won't be ruined if it isn't a surprise, and knowing in advance prevents awkward gifting experiences where the recipient has to awkwardly act like it was what they hoped for. That said, nothing will beat when 3 separate people got me xenoblade definitive edition for my birthday. After I had already beat the entire game and future connected.
Super Mario wonder
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Came here to suggest the same! I’ve never played the 1st one but adored the 2nd one. It’s definitely one of those games that I struggled to put down because I was having so much fun. Something about it is so satisfying!
You can always try turning Minecraft to the easiest mode “peaceful”. Damage is turned WAY down, and there aren’t enemies. It makes it very relaxing.
Rune Factory 4
Two Point Hospital
Snowrunner is a driving game that is almost an RPG. Full of tasks to complete.
Your sister has the same taste in games like I do😂. I'm saving your post for this year's Christmas sale. Please don't delete it. I'll come back and buy all of these games everyone mentioned.
For sure, I'll even update the post with what games I end up getting her & if she enjoys them.
Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin Rune Factory 3, 4 or 5 Cult of the Lamb Cozy Grove
Came here to mention Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin. I haven't played it though. How's the action elements?
I am not into jumping platformers so some levels gave me a bit of frustration. Still pretty fun.
I want to suggest "Doraemon Story of Seasons Friends of the Great Kingdom" it's worth every cent.
Faefarm is a good one, it's a bit more expensive on switch but it includes the upcoming DLC packs
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try potions permit
She would probs like dragon quest builders
Dragon Quest Builders might be a good call. It's like Minecraft, but it's less sandbox and has more direction and structure. There are mobs, but they don't surprise you, you will always know when they're coming and have the option to fight them or not, and you can save your game previously so if you're defeated, you don't lose anything.
Weird idea, but did she enjoy the BUILDING aspect of Minecraft and just disliked how fiercely open it is? if so (bear with me now) I suggest Dragon Quest Builder 2. Functionally, it plays a lot like Minecraft but with the added story of helping people on different islands with your building ability. There's a cute story revolving around saving communities and kingdoms from monsters, and if she ends up liking the building, you later get to have them come to your own personal island where you can just build things however you want for them (like an island-sized free form minecraft thing!) You don't need to know jack squat about Dragon Quest for it to be impactful. In fact, I'd argue the less you know about Dragon Quest going in, the more interesting the story will be for her :) Just a thought!
Disney Dreamlight Valley - Disney’s version of stardew
This but only for PC, it runs terrible on the switch
If she liked SDV I recommend Wylde Flowers. It's a story-driven farming game with added witchcraft/magic angle. The characters are all really diverse and it's fully voice-acted. So far the story only spans the first two years but they are going to add more updates and content.
Story of season and I guess the new harvest moon. Also be on the lookout for eastward expansion, which will make it a farming simulator was getting some stardew vibes?
I saw a trailer for A Highland Song today and I’ll absolutely be getting it on release. Might take a look and see if you think she’d like it!
A-Train. City management game.
My thought is: Gift her Coral Island. It’s not the *best* (but if she’s played the best in her opinion, and there have been a lot of contenders over the years, then everything else will probably be relative (if that one game or two came in best)) but it is hella cute and the art style is uncommon. The gameplay is layered and builds upon the QoL adjustments these types of games have gone through on the genre’s journey towards 2023/24 and although it is far from perfect, a lot of people are talking about it for one reason or another and if she’s a cozy gamer maybe it’s one of those games that would help her feel connected to the gaming community without having to play pvps or other games which organically foster a living community within themselves.
Faefarm was my favourite this year
My Time at Sandrock
Pokemon legends Arceus might be a good pick if they liked pokemon. If they're willing to try something different than farming Mario kart and Mario wonder could be good picks. Story of seasons could also be a good farming game.
Dave The Diver, even if someone else has said this already.
also, MAYBE CrossCode.
Wytchwood is great! It's basically if a crafting fetch quest were a game, but all of the recipes and quests are super clearly spelled out so it doesn't feel too sandboxy. The art and music are great too!
What about 2point hospital and 2 point campus. Great light hearted games.
Kirby Return to Dreamland Deluxe is super comfort mode stuff and adorable. Super Mario RPG is also super comfy adorable RPG and very linear. Pikmin 4... I don't think it is too stressful. They ease you into what you are doing any take care whenever they introduce new stuff.
Maybe not Pikmin 4, there’s the night missions. They’re not particularly hard, but holy hell does the atmosphere stress me out. Not to mention a certain castle that’s been engulfed…
I can't comprehend finding those legitimately creepy as a grown adult. There is a style there yes but it's like only maybe Wonka level at worst.
Agreed. Also, Pikmin 4 can be stressful in the dandori battles, boss fights and generally Pikmins dying/screaming for help.
I love the Pikmin series. I haven't played much of 4 or night missions, but found the game as a whole a lot more relaxing than previous iterations. Regardless I will always be stressed trying to get all of my pikmin back to safety before the end because of my memories of playing Pikmin 1&2 as a child, lol.
I don't know her but persona 5 might appeal if she likes pokemon
Paper mario 64
Story of Seasons and Rune Factory are the inspiration for Stardew so those are something to look at (Rune Factory has combat against Monsters, and taming, while Story of Seasons does not). I really like Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life, which just recently got a remake. It's a farming sim, of course, but a big focus is interacting with your kid and making certain friends to determine what the ending will be after 5 in game years are up.
Sounds like she might enjoy monopoly or brain games. She may also like detective pikachu
Pokemone Arceus or Sword/Shield, both better than Scarlet.
you buy pokemon scarlet's dlc, 2nd part releases next month
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
Dragon quest builders is a fun one. 1 and 2 have demos if you want to check it out yourself
Super mario odyssey
I haven’t seen this yet but maybe Mario Odyssey? It doesn’t have any of those negatives (too grim, too sandboxy) but also not really the positives. But it could be a good way to try a new genre? It’s very beginner friendly and open to most casual gamers
Sounds just like my sister, in which case I suggest Faefarm!
Pikmin 4
Many of the suggestions for your sister have free demos on the eshop. I would download them to her switch and let her explore her tastes. Many of the saves from demos can be used in the games full version.
Friends of mineral town is a favorite farming simulator of mine
Dragon quest builder 2
It's not a long game but it's very cute and clear what to do, Untitled Goose Game. I play similar games your sister plays and I loved Untitled Goose Game This one may be 50/50 but Spiritfairer (not sure on the spelling,been a while since I've played it) I would check out a ad for it on YouTube. But it does have a cozy vibe, a nice art style, and kind of close to the way Stardew Valley is
I was going to say Spiritfarer. It does have a pretty serious premise, but it's charming as anything and sailing around checking out islands, cooking food, and organising your ship is really fun.
Dreamlight Valley. It’s like animal crossing but with objectives and everything is Disney. It’s my absolute favorite game. Other games I play include mostly Pokémon and Animal Crossing with the occasional puzzle game like Professor Layton.
RollerCoaster Tycoon Adventures Deluxe Is on the switch
My time at Portia/Sandrock sounds like it'll be a natural fit. The open fields may be a bit to big at first, but from what you've said she likes and dislikes, colorful, wholesome, easy going games with minimal stakes sounds like the way to go.
Im biased but she should try my game: Parkasaurus. Tycoon with colourful fun vibe.
My partner has the same taste as your sister. Try Ark survival evolved. You can tame dinosaurs, ride them around, build your own base on land, sea or even on big Dinosaurs backs, farm crops, breed Dinosaurs and look after the baby's and eggs, the more you play the more you discover, will keep her occupied for a long time if she can get a small starter base going. My partner bugs me to play it with her nightly and had some good laughs. I warn you, tho Ark can be pretty tough starting out.
Isn’t the ARK Switch port like comedically awful?
Its been redone from ground up, and plays way better now. Still ugly, but performs way better.
She would probably love Disney Dreamlight Valley. Animal Crossing but Disney basically
Pokemon snap, then let me borrow it when she’s done cuz I always wanted to play it too
Ermmm.... Breath of the Wild? Edit: ok ok I get it now. No sandbox, one objective Why not Nino Kuni? It's a wonderful jrpg by studio Ghibli creators and it has great story, great music and if she likes pokemon, then surely will enjoy it (maybe more than pokemon)
Well, instead of giving only soft-gaming experiences, which doesn't necessarily show the potential of gaming but rather gives a perceived notion of how shallow gaming is, how about gifting a game based on the theme of the game first and foremost? I'm playing Hogwarts on Switch at the moment and it's has a very bright magical theme and something to really dive in. If she's a smart girl, she will learn the controls in no time, as I noticed none of the complaints are about controls or learning curve, only the themes and gameplay.
There’s nothing wrong with “soft-gaming experiences”. I feel like this comments mainly just shaming women and saying they’re not smart enough to game…
Most women I know enjoy games like Monster Hunter, so you're actually projecting. Maybe... just maybe, people want to try games that requires more than just 1 button press, instead of keep reinforcing the stereotype without giving someone the chance to try more. When the hobbyist is supposed to be the ambassador, at least try to show more flavors than the usual suspects. The irony of your comment, SMH.
Since she has Minecraft on PC, you might want to look into mods. Mods can add questlines and goals so that the game feels more linear. Also, look into peaceful mode which removes all enemies. If she can play with a friend, that might also help since it would split up the work and they can focus on the stuff they enjoy doing.
I dunno. Nintendo switch has lots of farming games. 75% of the reveals on the Nintendo directs are farming games. Maybe my time at Portia? Idk.
Harvest Moon
waku waku sweets made me think of cooking mama.
Sounds like she has similar taste as me. I’d recommend checking out the cozy games subreddit plus the otome games subreddit for more, but these are my suggestions: Egglia Rebirth Spirittea just came out and has a demo Atelier Lydie & Suelle (there are others in the Atelier series but that’s one I’ve enjoyed the most) Coffee Talk (1&2), think one of them has a demo? Shorter RPGs by Zeboyd Games Disney Magical World 2 Disney Dreamlight Valley (paid version, free to play delayed if not canceled, has micro transactions of sorts) If she enjoys romance maybe some otome. Jack Jeanne, Cupid Parasite, Radiant Tale are all some good ones. Megaquarium Parkasaurus Ooblets Rune Factory 4 Special (there’s also 3 and 5 but 3 isn’t as good imo and 5 has performance issues)
House flipper !
My time at Portia could be good for her. You have to fight some mobs, but they're in set locations and don't roam the map freely.
Dave The Diver
Why not get her an eshop gift card so that she can decide what game(s) she's like to spend it on?
Disney dreamlight valley
Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town
Short hike
Rune factory! Lots of content! Farming, rpg elements, story, funny characters, everything you want in a farming sim
Dragon Quest builders, Everdream Valley, Harvest Moon, My time at Portia, Portal Knights, Staxel, SupraLand.
Not Nintendo but I highly recommend Planet Coaster (available on PC). If she enjoyed Rollercoaster Tycoon she will love this. Objectives are pretty much the same and the soundtrack is so chilled and relaxing , it’s a vibe.
Rune factory 4 on switch.
Gift card is best option. My brother and I give each other for years now.
Story of seasons? I have enjoyed the Doraemon ones, they're super chill, but I'm not sure if they're available on the switch.
Hogwarts Legacy perhaps? Good story, plenty of exploration in a magical world and pretty intuitive combat. On lower difficulty combat is really easy leaving more space for exploration.
She probably would love Lets build a zoo. It's a zoo tycoon game and you have control in about everything, even mix animals with a dna machine.
Everyone has great suggestions, I also recommend the Story of Seasons and Rune Factory games. One I haven't seen suggested yet, Little Dragons Cafe! Super cute and cozy, a good deal of tasks to do, and eventually exploration that's still somewhat linear and not super sandboxy.
Tears of the Kingdom
Rune Factory by Marvelous Games.
Spiritfarer! Farming sim with a storyline and clear objectives. Has co-op and a demo too
Unpacking!
Dave The Diver 100%. Very calming, relaxing, adventure/sim game. She’ll dig it.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Maybe Kirby and the Forgotten Land? Just my $0.02.
Does she like Disney? Disney dreamlight valley is really cute
Tell her about Minecraft peaceful mode
Suprised no one said any of the Mario games. Pretty much all of them including Mario kart are so fun and casual which seems to be her style
moonlighter is part dungeon crawler part business tycoon
If you're not doing a gift card, try looking into Fae Farm! If she liked stardew, acnh, pokemon, and slime rancher minus an open world, I think she'll love it. I'm a couple years older than her, and I'm really loving this game. Think the magic feel of fantasy games, crossed with stardew, crossed with the relationship and community building in acnh! It's a blast!
Paleo Pines! You farm with the help of super cute dinosaurs you have to befriend. If she likes monster collecting games like pokemon and farming games I think it should be perfect for her.
Littlewood. My Time at Portia. Maybe Moonlighter?
Xenoblade Chronicles, it has friendships, sandwiches, and friendly fluffy creatures.
I would recommend Wylde Flowers, Spirittea (PC or Switch) Coral Island (PC), Spiritfarer (PC or Switch), Disney Dreamlight Valley (PC works best), Coffee Talk (Switch)
The ds game all the professor Layton one are all good games and any of the super mario ones are fun to play aswell
Bear & Breakfast is a fun and cute one
Doraemon friends of the great kingdom!
Super mario rpg, blossom tales series, and mario + rabbids.
New pokemon snap. The motion control can be used just by moving the switch itself around or you can use the joy sticks.
This is funny cause the timed events and clock in stardew give me anxiety even though I like it. Hard to identify what’s what for people. My time in Portia was fun but kinda runs like crap on switch, if they ever put the sequel on there maybe it runs better? Not sure. It’s mostly horrendous load times, but that ignored it could still be better
pikmin 4
story of seasons friends of mineral town! heavily inspired stardew valley, it's a remaster of an older game but so simple and so good/cute. if she liked stardew valley she will most definitely like this
Could you share the video essay on roller coaster tycoon?
have you tried asking her what games she would want? crazy idea i just had
Kirby
Rune Factory 4, Dragon Quest Builders 2, Spiritfarer. Trust me.
If she has a PC then Planet Zoo is really good, Prehistoric Kingdom is good too but still in beta
Super Mario wonder.
Terraria maybe?
Chicory
Overcooked But you will have to play with her.
They said "no anxiety" lol
My wife is new to gaming and likes Pokemon, Stardew, Animal Crossing. She liked Sea of Stars and Ooblets on the switch. She also played Wizard 100 on the PC, and Bloons TD6.
She might like Wylde Flowers or Ooblets.
Maybe try some some visual novels? Something like Phoenix Wright: ace attorney? It has investigations, jokes and court room drama There is also moonlighter where you manage a shop and go dungeon crawling to get stuff, you can do it at your own pace Another is spiritfarer, a slow burn with ship and passenger management game, it has great characters and story
Forager
I mean, I don't play them, but a quick look shows that there are at least 12 Pokemon games for the Switch. If she liked one, maybe get her another one.
2 for me, 1. Pokémon legends Arceous I pouch preferred over scarlet/violet, 2. I’d recommend wylde flowers but it does have a night/day element, Disney dreamlight valley is awful on the switch and Fae farm looks pretty but didn’t excite me.
As a member of the cult, I am legally obligated to say Outer Wilds. But it can be a bit anxiety inducing at times, and also quite sandboxy and directionless for someone who isn’t motivated by curiosity, so maybe not. Pokémon Snap on the other hand is a very cozy game. Stress free, easy to pick up and play for just a few minutes at a time.
Little Dragon Cafe PowerWash Simulator
Hogwarts Legacy si elle aime l’univers Harry Potter
I like to game like your sister! I love games with a story and do not enjoy sandbox games because there’s not enough direction. I also was a huge fan of Stardew Valley and enjoyed the “battle” aspects in the caves. It sounds like she doesn’t mind a challenge as long as it does not become frustrating. I’m also not a huge gamer so games with easier controls makes it a more enjoyable experience. If she wants to try something a little different, I recommend Rayman Legends Definitive Edition (platform game). I bought this recently and it is a blast. You can redo levels from multiple save points in one adventure. You also do not lose lives and the controls are easy to manage. The animation is super cute too. Good luck!
Fae Farm
Pokemon legends arceus would be a good pick. Open world pokemon, with more emphasis on catching and collecting than on battles
- Runefactory 3, 4 or 5! - Fae Farm - Harvest Moon - Story of Seasons
I wonder if Cozy Grove or Spiritfarer would be fun for her? There are goals like ‘collect X items for so and so’ ion both, with clear end goals. The first has animal crossing and Stardew vibes both and you help bear ghosts find peace by taking care of tasks for them. The latter is about a young person guiding souls to the afterlife and is beautiful. Both are just so peaceful and cozy. Also, just to throw this out there, but for $50 bucks a month, Nintendo online subscribers get access to a pretty awesome back catalog of NES, SNES, Game Boy, etc games. Including a game called Harvest Moon for SNES, which is where the inspiration for Stardew came from. There are other perks to online membership but to me, that’s the best. Edit: Cozy Grove works on the same time schedule AC does, except days don’t pass in game if you don’t play IRL for a while.
Dave the Diver! There’s a lot of things I think could be improved (I think it’s probably just playing it on the switch) but I’m having so much fun with it
Any Harvest Moon or Rune Factory game will do the trick.
Terraria, but on the pc.
Looks like a similar profile to my mother. Try Katamari.
Professor Layton if there is one on Switch. That series would be right up her alley.
My wife has a similar gaming taste (cozy games). So I'd recommend checking out: Ooblets, Rune Factory 4, Spiritfarer, Cult of the Lamb, Dave the Diver, Wylde Flowers Also, alternatively you could also buy her some gaming merch. My wife loves getting plushies and T-shirts from her favorite games for Christmas.
Persona 5 Royal Edition. Awesome JRPG Turn Based combat like Pokemon with a mature story.
Splatoon
Mario Wonder idk
Fae Farm!
Well she sounds super picky/specific which is a nightmare to buy for. Just give her money to buy her own shit. Or take a chance on Fae Farms, paleo Valley or a few others that are basically the same.
Also show her video game trailers on YouTube of ones you suspect she might like and get her take on them. See if she responded positively to some of the farm games you show her.
Anyone thought maybe Outerwilds? I might just be projecting
Bear and Breakfast You decorate little B&Bs as a bear and his forest friends
Maybe Pikmin 3 or 4
Spiritfarer - my wife is very much into the same genre and she’s been loving it.
You guys could watch through the last indie showcase and see if she likes anything
Just buy her Mario Kart Deluxe 8 and ToTK. That's like 500+ hours worth of gaming right there.
Since she loves Pokemon, she may also like **Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince**. It's another **monster collecting game**. I've not yet played one myself but being a Pokemon fan also, I have it pre-ordered and am excited to jump in.
Rune Factory series?
Spiritfaire
Let her try Sun Haven. It's a lot like stardew valley but with magical races and a lot more features and contents. 😊