Top 5 best chill games for PC to relax

After a long day at work (or even for your upcoming holiday break), you need something to help you unwind from the grind. Something that doesn’t demand too much focus, energy, something that you do as casually as slouching on the couch.

PC games can offer excellent opportunities for you to decompress with beautiful and relaxing titles that ease stress rather than create it (believe it or not, it is possible in the gaming universe). These five free-to-play games combine the perfect balance of casual and charm, with Raid: Shadow Legends leading the way as an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful yet rewarding experience. Ready to find the next game to add to your post-grind ritual? Let’s dive in!

1. Raid: Shadow Legends

Source: https://company.plarium.com/images/press-kits-raid-3.jpg

Why is Shadow Legends one of the best chill games for PC?

OK. So, you have a game with Orcs, Elves, and everything in between, battling across a high-fantasy world with swords, spells, and dragons. How much relaxation can it offer? The answer: Yes.

Raid: Shadow Legends excels as a relaxing game, mostly thanks to its turn-based combat. You can play at your own pace while immersing yourself in classic fantasy escapism, recruiting and upgrading champions, and more! The short battle format also makes it perfect for brief breaks between meetings, and the light strategic design can keep you engaged without overwhelming you.

Year Released: 2018.
Awards: Pocket Gamer Mobile Games Awards (Best RPG Finalist).
Reviews/Rating: 4.5/5 average rating across platforms.
Key Features:
- Turn-based strategy combat for stress-free pacing.
- Over 500 champions with unique backstories and abilities.
- Regular content updates and seasonal events for ongoing engagement.
Fun Fact: The game’s influencer marketing strategy helped introduce millions of non-gamers to RPG mechanics through relaxed, accessible gameplay demonstrations.
Best For: Busy professionals and holiday goers seeking beautiful, strategic gameplay without time pressure.

And don’t forget that you can also receive a special reward by using your limited-time Promo Code!

To use a Raid Shadow Legends Promo Code, whether it be for a new player or a limited-time code, follow these simple steps:

Log in to Raid Shadow Legends.
Click on MENU on the left-hand side of the screen
Click on PROMO CODES
Enter the promo code and click confirm

Your free rewards will then go to your mailbox (the chest icon located at the top right of the screen). Items in the mailbox expire, so you should claim yours before they do (usually, you will have 7 days to do this).

Rewards	Code	StartDate	FinishDate
100000 Silver1 Knight-Errant	2GT24Knight	2024-01-16	2026-01-01

2. Genshin Impact

Source: https://genshin-impact.fandom.com/wiki/Version/Gallery

Why Try This Game?

Genshin Impact takes you on a meditative adventure with its breathtaking open world and soothing soundtrack. Perfect for those who have some difficulty going on a hike with their favourite playlist (for example). The game takes you across many landscapes, from serene meadows to forests, while its elemental combat system provides engagement, although not as stimulating as an FPS. Players can spend hours exploring, collecting resources, or even fishing, making it perfect for those who want to escape daily stress through, one could say, virtual tourism.

Year Released: 2020.
Awards: Google Play Best Game 2020.
Reviews/Rating: 4.6/5 average across platforms.
Key Features:
- Vast open world designed for exploration.
- Relaxing fishing, cooking, and resource gathering activities.
- Stunning visuals with calming environmental audio.
Fun Fact: Many players use Genshin Impact specifically for stress relief, with its photography mode becoming popular among those seeking digital mindfulness.
Best For: Nature lovers and explorers who want a visually stunning escape from routine.

3. Warframe

Souce: https://www-static.warframe.com/uploads/53b7bb2e4ae64030bccf706c6bd5897f.jpg

Why Try This Game?

Alright, while Warframe DOES feature action (as you can tell from the theme), its cooperative nature and extensive customization options can help create a surprisingly relaxing experience. Its fluid movement system and incredible space atmosphere can also induce zen-like states of mind, and its free-to-play model removes any financial pressure to enjoy the game fully. Engage in resource gathering, explore beautiful open worlds, or simply enjoy the title’s exceptional soundtrack during the quieter moments.

Year Released: 2013.
Awards: Steam Awards (Labor of Love 2019).
Reviews/Rating: 4.4/5 across digital platforms.
Key Features:
- Fluid parkour-like movement system for graceful navigation.
- Cooperative gameplay that reduces competitive pressure.
- Beautiful space environments and open-world exploration.
Fun Fact: Many players describe Warframe as meditative due to its movement mechanics and the ability to play at your own pace in a supportive community.
Best For: Players who find relaxation through smooth, flowing gameplay and cooperative experiences.

4. Guild Wars 2

Souce: https://www.guildwars2.com/en/media/wallpapers/

Why Try This Game?

Guild Wars 2’s free-to-play version offers one of the most relaxing MMO experiences you can find! With no subscription pressure and a focus on exploration over competition, the game’s “horizontal progression” system means you’re never behind, while its impressive art style and soundtrack create a peaceful digital atmosphere that’s just perfect after a tough day. Dynamic events and world exploration provide gentle engagement without demanding intense focus or quick reflexes. So grab yourself a drink, sit back, and enjoy exploring Tyria with your favourite race!

Year Released: 2012.
Awards: Multiple MMO Game of the Year awards.
Reviews/Rating: 4.3/5 average user rating.
Key Features:
- No subscription fees or pay-to-win mechanics.
- Beautiful world design with acclaimed orchestral soundtrack.
- Cooperative events that encourage community without pressure.
Fun Fact: The game’s soundtrack was composed by Jeremy Soule, who also created music for Skyrim, contributing to its relaxing atmosphere.
Best For: MMO newcomers and veterans seeking a stress-free online world to explore casually.

5. Path of Exile

Souce: https://www.gamewallpapers.com/download.php?img=wallpaper_path_of_exile_ascendancy_01_1920x1080.jpg

Why Try This Game?

Path of Exile offers a surprisingly relaxing gameplay experience through its character progression system and world design. While it contains action elements (and a somewhat dark fantasy vibe), many players find the character building, item collection, and exploration deeply satisfying and even calming! And despite its extensive skill tree and crafting system, the game’s aesthetics and ambient soundtrack all help contribute to an immersive, meditative experience. See it as one of those games to play on a gloomy, stormy night.

Year Released: 2013.
Awards: Multiple Action RPG awards and community recognition.
Reviews/Rating: 4.2/5 average across platforms.
Key Features:
- Deep character customization for peaceful theory crafting.
- Extensive endgame content that can be approached casually.
- Rich atmospheric design with immersive audio.
Fun Fact: Many players enjoy Path of Exile’s “mapping” endgame specifically for its repetitive, meditative qualities that help them unwind.
Best For: Strategy enthusiasts who find relaxation through character progression and atmospheric exploration.

Conclusion

As you can see, games are a great way to escape the grind. These free-to-play titles prove, with their beautiful worlds and gentle gameplay, that you don’t need to spend a dime to find a relaxing way to decompress after work or while on vacation. Raid: Shadow Legends leads this selection with its perfect balance of strategy and pacing, while Genshin Impact, Warframe, Guild Wars 2, and Path of Exile each offer their own unique approaches to stress-free playing. Whatever you’re in the mood for, these titles can help you find the perfect digital retreat for after a busy day or while booking your next vacation.

FAQ

Can these games really help me relax after a stressful day?

Yes! These games have been specifically chosen for their stress-reducing qualities, offering peaceful gameplay mechanics and beautiful environments designed to help you unwind.

Do I need gaming experience to enjoy these titles?

Not at all. These games feature intuitive controls and gradual learning curves, making them perfect for newcomers seeking relaxation over challenge.

How much time do I need to invest to feel satisfied?

Not much, thankfully. These games are designed for flexible play sessions, allowing you to enjoy meaningful progress whether you have 20 minutes or several hours.