Thanks for this, and your compassion. Ignore the comments saying you’re out of line for this kind of content and how you’ve framed it. We need more empathy, and looking out for each other and our mental health should not be stigmatized. Keep doing what you’re doing.
That’s why I play jprg’s, I feel like some of these titles are like a really nice massage after a long shift. Atelier series for example are my favorite as these are so relaxing and cozy. Thanks for this great video🫶🏻
Brandon (@JustTheGems) - I just want to say that I appreciate your content. I watch every single new video you release. Thank you for making this video. I've played most of these games with the exception of 'Blue Reflection' and 'Earthbound' (I know, blasphemy!! lol) but will be looking at these in the near future. Keep it up, and I'll keep supporting! Keep being an amazing human for us.
I feel the Chrono Trigger recommendation in my soul. It’s one of my “happy place” games. It only takes a few seconds of that soundtrack and suddenly I’m a kid again, playing on Christmas morning. Perfect game in my humble opinion.👍
Thanks for this, need this kind of empathetic content right now. I hadn’t seen your content before but the algorithm gods were kind and it’s an instant subscribe.
Chrono cross is definitely one that has the vibe and music that not only brings me back to my childhood , and it is so relaxing. You hit the nail on the head with this pick .
Thanks so much for making this! This has become my favorite TH-cam channel! I really appreciate your thoughtful videos! And honestly whoever won, I think this would be a good video to put out post election because someone is always not going to be feeling great! Don't listen to the haters and keep up the great work!
I think many of us are drawn to JRPGs because they are about the goodness of people united by compassion and the power of those people to effect positive change. I mean, how many are about a found family succeeding literally with the power of friendship? It feels aligned with the genre and the presenter in this case. Thanks for that. (Also I am playing 3 JRPGs at once one of which being the first on your list, for these reasons)
The choice of what game helps anxiety is so personal. I know for some like me, dark souls is that. While the world of dark souls is dire at best, it forces me to unwind from my days and focus. And also helps me through the fact that with calm, patience and thought, you can overcome any adversity
I always love the topic of more chill or “cozy” jrpgs, and your empathy is always appreciated! I feel like turn based jrpgs even if they’re not the traditional type of cozy game they can still be that for some people. I’ve been playing some Pokémon Mystery Dungeon while I’ve been needing something chill, because it’s so nostalgic to me. Nostalgia is always such a powerful factor in the chill zone 🤭
Also Sky 1 was so amazingly cozy to me, and I can’t wait to get to the other firsts because I adore those vibes. I think it’s the best way to get attached to the characters and I hope the other firsts live up to Sky’s for me ;-;
To add to my post, the Pokémon and Golden Sun games I think are great to lower anxiety as well! Not complicated plots, and lots of good music especially with Pokémon where are are many peaceful calming tracks!
I would like to add My time at Sandrock. Its more RPG then people give it credit for. Its has a nice western setting. The combat while not a detailed as a full JRPG its got its own combat perk tree and 4 different weapon types. The story is somewhat like the Atelier series. And the devs are very good and openly talk with the community. They also just finished kickstarting the next game in my My Time series and it got 2.9M. And takes place 3 years after Sandrock.
I love you for this Brandon. As a therapist, we could all use more love, empathy, compassion, and relief from stress/anxiety. Just joined your Patreon to show my support for your work and who you are as an outstanding human being.
Hi Brendan, thanks for the video. I like the topic you added to your channel, and I'm always happy to see video gamers raising anxiety awareness. Very nice. I also wanted to share with you a series that is almost forgotten: Professor Layton. All their games are as elegant and respectful as can be, very thoughtful characters, good dialogue, and tons of reading which relaxes and occupies the mind.
I played Atelier Ryza 1 and Atelier Sophie 2 this year, those are THE comfort games for me! Lovely, quirky characters, a beautiful world to explore, fun gameplay and a more lightehearted story. Simply perfection.
Thanks for being a great person addressing that yeah recent events may cause a number of us a lot of anxiety right now and thanks for another great list 💜
I appreciate your heart, Branden ❤ Thanks for sharing this list! I'm not sure how many people this one is likely to resonate with, but for an RPG to calm anxiety Rhapsody is my no.1 recommendation! It's one of the most heartwarming games I've ever played -- a little cheesy, a little silly, but somehow also incredibly moving? Also very easy and short! Playing the sequels earlier this year pulled me out of some really tough spots. So, throwing it out there for anyone looking for the JRPG equivalent of a hug! ❤
Trails in the Sky broke me away from an online game addiction that was FF XIV. Truly made me realize how much I miss games with beautiful stories and how it got me back to a more normal routine of gaming and personal stuff I won't discuss. So thanks for this list. You rock!
I'm always impressed when an RPG knows its audience well enough that it directly addresses anxiety in some way. For instance, in Metaphor lore, Gallica is using magic to help Protagonist with their anxiety (through more than just music, I think); and the different archetypes are said to arise from anxiety being pushed aside or otherwise dealt with.
For anxiety suggestions I think a nostalgic game could be good for some. It feels like coming home to something familiar. For me that would be Pokémon mystery dungeon explorers of sky and Pokémon black/white. My first jrpgs and still some of my favorites
Thanks for a great video. A lot of your anti-anxiety strategies are the same as mine - and it's great to see someone else talking about them. (I may borrow this idea and do something similar on my channel - but don't worry, I'll credit you!)
Adding to this list, the Neptunia series is great! The story isn't serious and can be funny at many points as well! The combat is complicated either. It can get a little hard with some of the extra content, but those are not required to beat the game.
I remember I really enjoyed living in Radiata Stories. The music was playful, and it was fun just watching people go about their day, moving around the city and figuring out how to recruit your way all the way to the top.
Just stumbled upon your channel and love it. I'm surprised you didn't include Animal Crossing on the Nintendo Switch.... That game is the ultimate stress reliever, you can't do anything wrong. That game got me through the COVID lockdown, I put in well over 300 hours into that game.
I don’t typically comment on your videos, but thank you for making this one and ESPECIALLY recommending people get professional help if they need it💖 I don’t know if it’s because of it being my favorite Atelier subseries, but I feel the Dusk trilogy (starts with Ayesha) is probably actually one that I feel helps my mental health (though maybe more depression than anxiety) the most. There’s something healing about people carrying on (and fighting) despite the world dying. Also so glad that Stardew Valley 1.6 came to consoles the day before the election because it’s been seriously helpful to fall in love with it again
There are several ways this topic could have spiraled and you navigated them well. Also I vouch for the Atelier pic and am with you. I am just finishing the last bits of the platinum for Ryza 1 as my first game and it is a great pallet cleanser to sneak between games with heavy themes
It’s a great video Branden. Very smart of you to put the disclaimers and the start and end of it. I genuinely hope that your continued content reaches people, helps put them at ease and this video in particular, helps them remember to utilize the tools around them to help through any troubling situations they may have. You’re a good egg. 👍 In terms of the games, you had amazing picks in this list. I found myself nodding at all of the games I played on it. We’re eager for your 10k Q&A video. Take your time with it. Fans aren’t going anywhere.
Awesome and definitely much needed video right now! Aside from the general stuff going on in the world, my life has been in a pretty rough spot lately so this video was definitely a comfort. Lots of great games on here that I’ve also turned to in times of need! I appreciate you tons, friend!! Thank you for being you!
Good on you for making this vid! using dragon age veilguard atm for this type of escapism and relaxation. but dragon quest 11 was sooo good for this. wish i could play it again for the first time ... but alas.
Xenogears. I know it doesn’t seem to fit but it’s what broke through to me at 17, poverty, no family, alone, was a broken soul, and each playthrough broke new barriers. Ended up making a pretty decent life for myself. My two sons now 17 and 18 both played this year and it was transformative for them in their lives and gave them tools to live they never knew existed. Xenogears doesn’t fit the mold of these games but it can help with anxiety in a different way. Stand Tall and Shake the Heavens!!
@@JustTheGems the 17 year old son he mentioned talking here, just turned 18 and xenogears is our household... game tradition? lol. im proud to say that ive finished it :D (took me 101 hours, heh.)
I'm another Canadian feeling the same way and anxious about the implications for our country. I've been using the phrase "creeping existential dread" for the last few weeks.
I'm usually not into lists or ranking videos, but this just works, and I like that it has a reason behind it other than "I need to put out a video", which is one of the things I like the most about your channel 😊. In my case, as long as I can play as somebody else saving the world for a while without annoying puzzles or unbeatable bosses, I'm good 😂. The music does help a lot as well, I agree!!
I've been playing Atelier Ryza for a few days and i'm starting to love it. Also, almost all of the games you recommended are comfort games to me too. That said, i usually relax playing Halo 3 of all games, the music and spectacle calms me. Exploring in Tomb Raider games, looking for treasure and collectables massage my brain. I would recommend Zelda too. Specially Twilight Princess, Skyward Sword and BotW/TotK. Thanks for the video. These are dire times and even though i live in Brazil, we are still affected by what happened there. And we had our own throwbacks here recently.
Thank you for this, mate. I'm an American living abroad, dealing with challenges on a couple of fronts. I will be puting down SMT 3 for a while to try a couple of these suggestions to decompress.
Thanks for this video! I think it's important to remind people that recent events don't mean that anyone isn't wanted or doesn't belong. There are so many of us out there, even in places you wouldn't expect, who do see and support you.
Can confirm, the first Atelier Ryza game is so calming that multiple times when I tried playing it at the end of the day, it put me to sleep. I'd like to actually play it through but at this point I need to just start over from the beginning on a Saturday morning when I'm already rested.
Trails series, hell yes. On that note can also try the Ys series, Persona series and Caligula Effect. Can also try the Neptunia series for some wackiness and 4th wall breaking moments and of course fan service too. I tried Blue reflection, Mana series and Atelier series and couldn't really get into it.
Honestly can never go wrong with a Tales Of ... game. My personal favorite is tales of vesperia, easy to follow story with a great cast of characters. My second huge pick is any of the Rune factory games. Much like stardew its doubles as a farming/ action title but Honestly ticks the vibe box. If i had to pick a third title it would be a Persona title. It mixed dungion crawling/ with a slice of life aspect to it. Persona 3 had a new release on the new consoles and switch has the full pack for the slightly older titles.
I never would have realized how people can get so emotionally attached to government elections until recent years. My job's HR department even sent out several memos to everyone multiple times with mental health resources. I have never seen HR do anything that useful. You're are doing good for helping out those that might need it.
I came to realization that most Atelier games from the past can only be kind of relaxing if you don't mind a lackluster conclusion to the story in a blind playtrough, if you target better endings it becomes really stressful especially with cryptic time events and super bosses that are so powerful that you really need to learn how to make OP weapons and gear especially with a time limit like Rorona or Totori and you will probably not get that desired ending without a guide. Even with a guide you can mess up.
Also all these comments about not wanting politics in your channel. Please, everything we do is political. If you don’t feel that politics are part of your life then you and your inner circle must live in a bubble or you just don’t have many friends.
I really appreciate this Branden! Please try to ignore the trolls and hatemongers, they have no interest in your actual content. I'll say this - I feel like every video you make has been getting better. Even when I don't agree with your takes, I always get why you came to have them. I'll probably try and give Lunar SSSC a playthrough, never did get all the bromides...
Yesterday was terrible, dude. Good video tho. Thanks. One game i think people should play is Metaphor Refantazio. It's a very hopeful game about actual change for the better
Such a nice video! It's always good to remember that despite our differences, we are all still people. The world is much more than politics, and life is the most precious gift we have... so don't let fear, anger or despair take it from you. Also, I'd like to give some recommendations from games that help me when I'm not feeling great: - Klonoa (Retro/ Platformer/ Dreamlike Vibes) - Fate/Extella (Hack'n Slash/ Great Music: Both, Emotional and Relaxing) - Dragon Quest Builders (Crafting/ Isometric View/ Relaxing Vibe)
You are the kind of person everyone needs as a friend. Good looking out, brother. Your channel is amazing. It's incredibly disheartening to see the number of people who get offended by you offering kindness.
I appreciate you saying that. I'm kinda confused by the people that are offended, honestly. I would've thought empathy and things like that were universal ideas.
Love the thought and kindness behind this video. I'm just generally an anxious person, and this week has been hard. I've been going between gacha games, pokemon, and dragon age veilguard to escape.
You know whats funny is that Metaphor Refantazio could be considered for at least this videos title because the theme of the game is conquering Anxiety.
I was sure harvestella would make the list. I agree about "task games" being relaxing. My daugther loves story of seasons pioneers of olive town. Maybe nostalgia is talking but I would recommand final fantasy X. I think the linearity of the games makes it not as overwheelming as an open world one. And the music 🥰
@JustTheGems yeah coming from you, i though " oh harvestella will make the list for sure". I actually plan on giving it a try in my games to play 2025. Picked it up because you worship it so much. Thank you.
Thank you for this ❤ I was thinking of starting up Grandia again to deal with the anxiety I've been fighting lately. I highly recommend it if you want to get lost in a cozy and charming world.
I kind of find it a bit funny that "Atelier" is listed here. On one hand, yeah, it's a generally comfy series. Most of the entries are fairly laid back and aren't really that difficult...superbosses aside anyway. But on the other, at least with the earlier entries, those time limits are anxiety incarnate to me. Knowing that every action I make moves me irreversibly forwards to an end, with some actions taking quite the bit of time at that, causes me to over plan everything I do. That every mistake or misjudgement might just cost me events, materials, equipment, etc...I end up paralyzing myself into not doing anything. In fact, it's only recently where I finally picked the series back up again, after nearly a decade. As far as the modern entries go, I only ever played up until the "Arland" trilogy. Well, back when they were only a trilogy. I kept stressing myself out too much so I ended up dropping out there with them. Though now I'm finishing up the "Dusk" trilogy (been going at a pace of one entry a month roughly) and I still had to fight past that feeling, even when their time limits are so much more lenient. It's something that's always in the back of my mind. "Shallie" having no time limit at all is a breath of fresh air to me, though that motivation mechanic is kind of annoying.
Nice to see the comments are fairly positive, other than the obvious, and the people who apparently aren't able to realize not everyone has their exact same perspective in life.
Great video and ignore the negative losers, but question. What game is the acrylic big(?) Stand at the beginning of the video on the left side of the screen from?
Please don't listen to the haters. Your real fans are thanking you for your empathy. Regardless of your feelings on recent events (you didnt even state a stance in the video), it's clear you understand many of us are experiencing trepidation regarding the far-reaching consequences of the election. Thank you ❤
Thanks for this, and your compassion. Ignore the comments saying you’re out of line for this kind of content and how you’ve framed it. We need more empathy, and looking out for each other and our mental health should not be stigmatized. Keep doing what you’re doing.
Empathy is what I'm about, so I'm glad to hear this
That’s why I play jprg’s, I feel like some of these titles are like a really nice massage after a long shift. Atelier series for example are my favorite as these are so relaxing and cozy.
Thanks for this great video🫶🏻
Brandon (@JustTheGems) - I just want to say that I appreciate your content. I watch every single new video you release. Thank you for making this video. I've played most of these games with the exception of 'Blue Reflection' and 'Earthbound' (I know, blasphemy!! lol) but will be looking at these in the near future.
Keep it up, and I'll keep supporting! Keep being an amazing human for us.
I really appreciate your support - thanks for watching!
I feel the Chrono Trigger recommendation in my soul. It’s one of my “happy place” games. It only takes a few seconds of that soundtrack and suddenly I’m a kid again, playing on Christmas morning. Perfect game in my humble opinion.👍
I'm typically a lurker but you deserve all the support for this
Thanks for this, need this kind of empathetic content right now. I hadn’t seen your content before but the algorithm gods were kind and it’s an instant subscribe.
Chrono cross is definitely one that has the vibe and music that not only brings me back to my childhood , and it is so relaxing. You hit the nail on the head with this pick .
Thanks so much for making this! This has become my favorite TH-cam channel! I really appreciate your thoughtful videos! And honestly whoever won, I think this would be a good video to put out post election because someone is always not going to be feeling great! Don't listen to the haters and keep up the great work!
Thank you!
I think many of us are drawn to JRPGs because they are about the goodness of people united by compassion and the power of those people to effect positive change. I mean, how many are about a found family succeeding literally with the power of friendship? It feels aligned with the genre and the presenter in this case. Thanks for that. (Also I am playing 3 JRPGs at once one of which being the first on your list, for these reasons)
I'm picturing that you have all three games running simultaneously, three controllers in hand, and I'm very impressed.
The choice of what game helps anxiety is so personal. I know for some like me, dark souls is that. While the world of dark souls is dire at best, it forces me to unwind from my days and focus. And also helps me through the fact that with calm, patience and thought, you can overcome any adversity
Great video Branden. Thank you for making this.
I always love the topic of more chill or “cozy” jrpgs, and your empathy is always appreciated! I feel like turn based jrpgs even if they’re not the traditional type of cozy game they can still be that for some people. I’ve been playing some Pokémon Mystery Dungeon while I’ve been needing something chill, because it’s so nostalgic to me. Nostalgia is always such a powerful factor in the chill zone 🤭
Also Sky 1 was so amazingly cozy to me, and I can’t wait to get to the other firsts because I adore those vibes. I think it’s the best way to get attached to the characters and I hope the other firsts live up to Sky’s for me ;-;
Yeah, nostalgia is a great way to de-stress. I find myself wanting to spend more time in it lately
Thx for supporting your community. I hope these recommendations help some people to unwind.
To add to my post, the Pokémon and Golden Sun games I think are great to lower anxiety as well! Not complicated plots, and lots of good music especially with Pokémon where are are many peaceful calming tracks!
I would like to add My time at Sandrock. Its more RPG then people give it credit for. Its has a nice western setting. The combat while not a detailed as a full JRPG its got its own combat perk tree and 4 different weapon types. The story is somewhat like the Atelier series. And the devs are very good and openly talk with the community. They also just finished kickstarting the next game in my My Time series and it got 2.9M. And takes place 3 years after Sandrock.
I love you for this Brandon. As a therapist, we could all use more love, empathy, compassion, and relief from stress/anxiety. Just joined your Patreon to show my support for your work and who you are as an outstanding human being.
That's so kind of you, thanks so much!
Thank you for doing what you do! It matters to people more than you think
Thank you for making this video. As an American who struggles with anxiety I appreciate the topic immensely. Great work! 👍
Thank you for this video. It's lovely to see the empathy for your audience. ❤
Best video yet! Thank you for pointing out the help line in the beginning!
Just another voice saying thank you for the video. Appreciate you.
Thank you!
Earthbound has been my comfort game for decades. Its practically therapy in video game form.
Hi Brendan, thanks for the video. I like the topic you added to your channel, and I'm always happy to see video gamers raising anxiety awareness. Very nice. I also wanted to share with you a series that is almost forgotten: Professor Layton. All their games are as elegant and respectful as can be, very thoughtful characters, good dialogue, and tons of reading which relaxes and occupies the mind.
I played Atelier Ryza 1 and Atelier Sophie 2 this year, those are THE comfort games for me! Lovely, quirky characters, a beautiful world to explore, fun gameplay and a more lightehearted story. Simply perfection.
This level of compassion is pretty refreshing. Earned a sub, a comment, and a like in record time.
Thanks for being a great person addressing that yeah recent events may cause a number of us a lot of anxiety right now and thanks for another great list 💜
I appreciate your heart, Branden ❤ Thanks for sharing this list! I'm not sure how many people this one is likely to resonate with, but for an RPG to calm anxiety Rhapsody is my no.1 recommendation! It's one of the most heartwarming games I've ever played -- a little cheesy, a little silly, but somehow also incredibly moving? Also very easy and short! Playing the sequels earlier this year pulled me out of some really tough spots. So, throwing it out there for anyone looking for the JRPG equivalent of a hug! ❤
You're a good dude, thank you for the positive content, truly.
I appreciate this video so much. I'm a psychologist and often forget to take care of myself. Who's going to give therapy to a psychologist?
You’re the absolute best, my dude. Keep up the good work, I appreciate you. 😊
Trails in the Sky broke me away from an online game addiction that was FF XIV. Truly made me realize how much I miss games with beautiful stories and how it got me back to a more normal routine of gaming and personal stuff I won't discuss. So thanks for this list. You rock!
I'm always impressed when an RPG knows its audience well enough that it directly addresses anxiety in some way. For instance, in Metaphor lore, Gallica is using magic to help Protagonist with their anxiety (through more than just music, I think); and the different archetypes are said to arise from anxiety being pushed aside or otherwise dealt with.
I really enjoyed this video and your thoughtful list and commentary. A lot of these games are anxiety-reducers for me as well.
For anxiety suggestions I think a nostalgic game could be good for some. It feels like coming home to something familiar. For me that would be Pokémon mystery dungeon explorers of sky and Pokémon black/white. My first jrpgs and still some of my favorites
Great picks ☺
Thank you for making this video ❤️ We all need a little stress relief right now.
Thanks for a great video. A lot of your anti-anxiety strategies are the same as mine - and it's great to see someone else talking about them. (I may borrow this idea and do something similar on my channel - but don't worry, I'll credit you!)
Such a thoughtful video. Thank you for this! Been trying to avoid social media and TH-cam but glad to know this type of cozy content continues.
If it helped in even a small way, I'm super happy
Adding to this list, the Neptunia series is great! The story isn't serious and can be funny at many points as well! The combat is complicated either. It can get a little hard with some of the extra content, but those are not required to beat the game.
I remember I really enjoyed living in Radiata Stories. The music was playful, and it was fun just watching people go about their day, moving around the city and figuring out how to recruit your way all the way to the top.
I loved this series so much, too bad it hasn't seen any remaster.
Great video. Need this so bad right now.
You’re funny as hell and make me laugh regularly
So many congrats on 10k. You deserve it.
Thank you for sharing. This will be considered, as I am battling with anxiety
Just stumbled upon your channel and love it. I'm surprised you didn't include Animal Crossing on the Nintendo Switch.... That game is the ultimate stress reliever, you can't do anything wrong. That game got me through the COVID lockdown, I put in well over 300 hours into that game.
I don’t typically comment on your videos, but thank you for making this one and ESPECIALLY recommending people get professional help if they need it💖 I don’t know if it’s because of it being my favorite Atelier subseries, but I feel the Dusk trilogy (starts with Ayesha) is probably actually one that I feel helps my mental health (though maybe more depression than anxiety) the most. There’s something healing about people carrying on (and fighting) despite the world dying.
Also so glad that Stardew Valley 1.6 came to consoles the day before the election because it’s been seriously helpful to fall in love with it again
Thank you.
There are several ways this topic could have spiraled and you navigated them well. Also I vouch for the Atelier pic and am with you. I am just finishing the last bits of the platinum for Ryza 1 as my first game and it is a great pallet cleanser to sneak between games with heavy themes
Thank you for this Branden! Very kind and compassionate!
It’s a great video Branden. Very smart of you to put the disclaimers and the start and end of it. I genuinely hope that your continued content reaches people, helps put them at ease and this video in particular, helps them remember to utilize the tools around them to help through any troubling situations they may have. You’re a good egg. 👍
In terms of the games, you had amazing picks in this list. I found myself nodding at all of the games I played on it. We’re eager for your 10k Q&A video. Take your time with it. Fans aren’t going anywhere.
Thanks so much Aaron!
Nice list.
Some other games I can add are.
"Tales of" Series like "Tales of Vesperia"
And the "Ys" series like "Ys Nordics"
Awesome and definitely much needed video right now! Aside from the general stuff going on in the world, my life has been in a pretty rough spot lately so this video was definitely a comfort. Lots of great games on here that I’ve also turned to in times of need! I appreciate you tons, friend!! Thank you for being you!
Sorry to hear things have been extra rough -- I'm always around to lend an ear if you need!
The OG Grandia has always been my happy place. Its remastered version is now on steam as well.
Trails Series boss fights give me panic attacks followed by anger eruption. 10/10 recommended
Good on you for making this vid! using dragon age veilguard atm for this type of escapism and relaxation. but dragon quest 11 was sooo good for this. wish i could play it again for the first time ... but alas.
Not only do these help anxiety they also help with videogame burnout.
Xenogears. I know it doesn’t seem to fit but it’s what broke through to me at 17, poverty, no family, alone, was a broken soul, and each playthrough broke new barriers.
Ended up making a pretty decent life for myself. My two sons now 17 and 18 both played this year and it was transformative for them in their lives and gave them tools to live they never knew existed.
Xenogears doesn’t fit the mold of these games but it can help with anxiety in a different way.
Stand Tall and Shake the Heavens!!
Wholeheartedly agree. Xenogears was life changing for me, too.
@@JustTheGems the 17 year old son he mentioned talking here, just turned 18 and xenogears is our household... game tradition? lol. im proud to say that ive finished it :D (took me 101 hours, heh.)
There should be way more videos like this on YT. Thank you, and subscribed. ✌🏽
I am here as an anxious Canadian 🥲
I'm another Canadian feeling the same way and anxious about the implications for our country. I've been using the phrase "creeping existential dread" for the last few weeks.
This was needed. Thank you!
I'm usually not into lists or ranking videos, but this just works, and I like that it has a reason behind it other than "I need to put out a video", which is one of the things I like the most about your channel 😊. In my case, as long as I can play as somebody else saving the world for a while without annoying puzzles or unbeatable bosses, I'm good 😂. The music does help a lot as well, I agree!!
Look, I'm not one of those anxious people... however, my heart has been breaking for people. Thank you for being kind.
This was fantastic! I also find Pokémon games relaxing. I’m really stoked on this topic actually!
Thanks for this vid bro. Really needed this.
I've been playing Atelier Ryza for a few days and i'm starting to love it. Also, almost all of the games you recommended are comfort games to me too. That said, i usually relax playing Halo 3 of all games, the music and spectacle calms me. Exploring in Tomb Raider games, looking for treasure and collectables massage my brain. I would recommend Zelda too. Specially Twilight Princess, Skyward Sword and BotW/TotK.
Thanks for the video. These are dire times and even though i live in Brazil, we are still affected by what happened there. And we had our own throwbacks here recently.
Thank you for this, mate. I'm an American living abroad, dealing with challenges on a couple of fronts. I will be puting down SMT 3 for a while to try a couple of these suggestions to decompress.
Thanks for this video! I think it's important to remind people that recent events don't mean that anyone isn't wanted or doesn't belong. There are so many of us out there, even in places you wouldn't expect, who do see and support you.
This was really nice of you to do.
Can confirm, the first Atelier Ryza game is so calming that multiple times when I tried playing it at the end of the day, it put me to sleep. I'd like to actually play it through but at this point I need to just start over from the beginning on a Saturday morning when I'm already rested.
I love those kinds of experiences, but yeah... That can make it hard to finish! 😅
Trails series, hell yes. On that note can also try the Ys series, Persona series and Caligula Effect. Can also try the Neptunia series for some wackiness and 4th wall breaking moments and of course fan service too.
I tried Blue reflection, Mana series and Atelier series and couldn't really get into it.
Something rly next level about the secret/trials of mana soundfont
Honestly can never go wrong with a Tales Of ... game. My personal favorite is tales of vesperia, easy to follow story with a great cast of characters. My second huge pick is any of the Rune factory games. Much like stardew its doubles as a farming/ action title but Honestly ticks the vibe box. If i had to pick a third title it would be a Persona title. It mixed dungion crawling/ with a slice of life aspect to it. Persona 3 had a new release on the new consoles and switch has the full pack for the slightly older titles.
great video man... even for people not bothered by the election result. Video games have always been a great escape from real world problems/anxieties
That's what I'm thinking. I know there's a lot of anxiety with some people right now, so I thought what better time to think about this stuff
Thank you for this video!
I never would have realized how people can get so emotionally attached to government elections until recent years. My job's HR department even sent out several memos to everyone multiple times with mental health resources. I have never seen HR do anything that useful. You're are doing good for helping out those that might need it.
Fantastic video and awesome message: Stay safe out there everyone
Thanks man.
I came to realization that most Atelier games from the past can only be kind of relaxing if you don't mind a lackluster conclusion to the story in a blind playtrough, if you target better endings it becomes really stressful especially with cryptic time events and super bosses that are so powerful that you really need to learn how to make OP weapons and gear especially with a time limit like Rorona or Totori and you will probably not get that desired ending without a guide. Even with a guide you can mess up.
Incredible video, you are really strong for doing something like this after yesterday’s news. Thank you so much.
Also all these comments about not wanting politics in your channel. Please, everything we do is political. If you don’t feel that politics are part of your life then you and your inner circle must live in a bubble or you just don’t have many friends.
I really appreciate this, thank you
I really appreciate this Branden! Please try to ignore the trolls and hatemongers, they have no interest in your actual content.
I'll say this - I feel like every video you make has been getting better. Even when I don't agree with your takes, I always get why you came to have them.
I'll probably try and give Lunar SSSC a playthrough, never did get all the bromides...
Hey Brenden, thanks for that and remember to take care of yourself too!!
Video game music does calm me a lot too, love it!
Yesterday was terrible, dude. Good video tho. Thanks.
One game i think people should play is Metaphor Refantazio. It's a very hopeful game about actual change for the better
Excellent recommendation! I just finished it last week and it really does hit some strong points with the metaphors it makes. Loved that game
Yep - That's a great game. I could also add Granblue Fantasy Relink (played as single player) to that list.
@@jclosed2516 loved that game, makes me wish I enjoyed Versus Rising and the gacha game nearly as much haha
Such a nice video!
It's always good to remember that despite our differences, we are all still people.
The world is much more than politics, and life is the most precious gift we have... so don't let fear, anger or despair take it from you.
Also, I'd like to give some recommendations from games that help me when I'm not feeling great:
- Klonoa (Retro/ Platformer/ Dreamlike Vibes)
- Fate/Extella (Hack'n Slash/ Great Music: Both, Emotional and Relaxing)
- Dragon Quest Builders (Crafting/ Isometric View/ Relaxing Vibe)
You are the kind of person everyone needs as a friend. Good looking out, brother. Your channel is amazing. It's incredibly disheartening to see the number of people who get offended by you offering kindness.
I appreciate you saying that. I'm kinda confused by the people that are offended, honestly. I would've thought empathy and things like that were universal ideas.
@@JustTheGems Sadly, some people are only empathetic to other like-minded people and immediately discount anything different.
Love the thought and kindness behind this video. I'm just generally an anxious person, and this week has been hard. I've been going between gacha games, pokemon, and dragon age veilguard to escape.
@@fancywaffles Fellow anxious person here. Just offering a supportive fist bump.
It’s rough out there! I’m glad you’re finding ways to cope.
I really needed to see this. Thank you 💛
You know whats funny is that Metaphor Refantazio could be considered for at least this videos title because the theme of the game is conquering Anxiety.
I was sure harvestella would make the list. I agree about "task games" being relaxing. My daugther loves story of seasons pioneers of olive town.
Maybe nostalgia is talking but I would recommand final fantasy X. I think the linearity of the games makes it not as overwheelming as an open world one. And the music 🥰
I'll admit, I thought about Harvestella, but I decided to give everyone a break from me talking about it😅
@JustTheGems yeah coming from you, i though " oh harvestella will make the list for sure". I actually plan on giving it a try in my games to play 2025. Picked it up because you worship it so much. Thank you.
@@JustTheGems I'll take over for you. Go play harvestella!
@@JustTheGems Please don't stop talking about Harvestella, I'm one video away of buying it to scratch this itch in my brain.
@@enriqueeduardovazquezdomin511 You won't regret it. It's a nice game.
Thanks for making this!
This was very sweet of you to do. Thank you! It's times like these where community is really important ❤
Thank you for this ❤ I was thinking of starting up Grandia again to deal with the anxiety I've been fighting lately. I highly recommend it if you want to get lost in a cozy and charming world.
Thank you for this
Take a shot every time he uses the word "vibe(s)" 😂
You'll be VERY drunk😆
I kind of find it a bit funny that "Atelier" is listed here.
On one hand, yeah, it's a generally comfy series. Most of the entries are fairly laid back and aren't really that difficult...superbosses aside anyway.
But on the other, at least with the earlier entries, those time limits are anxiety incarnate to me. Knowing that every action I make moves me irreversibly forwards to an end, with some actions taking quite the bit of time at that, causes me to over plan everything I do. That every mistake or misjudgement might just cost me events, materials, equipment, etc...I end up paralyzing myself into not doing anything.
In fact, it's only recently where I finally picked the series back up again, after nearly a decade. As far as the modern entries go, I only ever played up until the "Arland" trilogy. Well, back when they were only a trilogy. I kept stressing myself out too much so I ended up dropping out there with them. Though now I'm finishing up the "Dusk" trilogy (been going at a pace of one entry a month roughly) and I still had to fight past that feeling, even when their time limits are so much more lenient. It's something that's always in the back of my mind. "Shallie" having no time limit at all is a breath of fresh air to me, though that motivation mechanic is kind of annoying.
Yeah, I can only speak to Rorona, which didn't bother me with the time limit. But I know it's worse in some other entries.
Thanks for this.
Bro you’re just the shit man thanks for the content “Likes” given . Enjoying podcast as well man!
Nice to see the comments are fairly positive, other than the obvious, and the people who apparently aren't able to realize not everyone has their exact same perspective in life.
Nice video Dude. BTW At 14:21 what the fok shinji xd
JRPGs GIVE me anxiety when I see all the random systems I have to learn
gagharv trilogy is hiper relaxing, and very good story
This never got a PC port right? At least not in English?
@ no, i played back in the day only song of the ocean in psp, and just now im playing the whole trilogy in emulator
Great video and ignore the negative losers, but question. What game is the acrylic big(?) Stand at the beginning of the video on the left side of the screen from?
Thats a very good idea for content thanks for that and you just got a new subs
Please don't listen to the haters. Your real fans are thanking you for your empathy. Regardless of your feelings on recent events (you didnt even state a stance in the video), it's clear you understand many of us are experiencing trepidation regarding the far-reaching consequences of the election. Thank you ❤