The Big Question: What’s your video game happy place?

What’s Your Video Game Happy Place? A Journey Through Digital Escapes

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We all have those special places where we can escape, relax, and recharge. For some, it’s a scenic hike; for others, a good book or movie. But what about video games? They offer unique worlds and experiences that can transport us to different realms. And today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of gaming to explore those virtual havens.

Finding Your Digital Sanctuary

As part of “Optimism Week” at Eurogamer, we’re revisiting “The Big Question” to celebrate the joy and specialness that video games can bring. This time, we’re asking: what’s your video game happy place?

Whether it’s the comforting mundanity of farming in a cozy world or the nostalgic warmth of an old favorite, there are countless ways to find happiness in gaming. One example is the vast, procedurally generated universe of No Man’s Sky, where you can amble serenely, expand your base, connect with a kind community, and tinker with new features. But what about those harsher, crueler worlds that offer a different kind of escape?

Even games not typically associated with relaxation, like FromSoftware’s Souls series, can provide a unique sense of solace. Their meticulously crafted worlds demand focus and precision, creating a meditative state that allows you to lose yourself in the experience. But what about the rest of the Eurogamer team? We asked them, and here’s what they had to say:

The Eurogamer Team’s Happy Places

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64, 3DS)

“There’s a very special house in Hyrule Castle Town. A house full of pots. Pots you can smash. The guard inside will never stop you from smashing them. You can smash, smash, smash away to your hearts delight. Leave the house only to return and all of the pots will be back in place. It’s a nirvana of pot-smashing.” – Lottie

RuneScape (PC, Mac, iOS, Android)

“I’ve celebrated a very special anniversary this year as 2026 marks my 20th year of playing RuneScape. Sure, I’ve taken breaks, but I always come back because I love the world of Gielinor. Whether it’s RuneScape 3 or Old School RuneScape, I feel like part of me is tied to Gielinor.” – Lottie

Super Mario 64 (N64, DS, Switch)

“While it was tempting to say that Silent Hill is my happy place, I figured I’d go for the next best thing: Princess Peach’s Castle in Super Mario 64. Whether I am racing Koopa through Bob-omb Battlefield or being jump-scared by the flying books in Big Boo’s Haunt, everywhere (that isn’t an underwater level) is a very happy place for me; full of nostalgia, Toads, and flying slide-kicks.” – Kelsey

Rollercoaster Tycoon Classic (PC)

“The joyous screams of a working park, the clack-clack-clack of chains pulling a rollercoaster train to its peak, and the cha-ching of money rolling in as guests flood in. Whether I’m making literal death traps or malfunctioning rides, I never tire of it.” – Marie

Spyro Reignited Trilogy (PS4)

“Pretty much every Spyro game is my happy place, and this edition contains three. It’s where I turn when I need a game that is familiar, doesn’t require too much thought, and still provides entertainment.” – Marie

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy (PS5)

“It’s a yearly tradition at this point. Hearing the opening titles, punching Lurkers, Daxter’s sarcastic quips when you die, powering up with eco… I could go on and on but will leave it at this: it makes me happy!” – Marie

Quake 3 (PC)

“It’s nice to feel good at something, isn’t it? And there’s one Quake 3 map I’m confident I can say that about: Q3DM17, also known as The Longest Yard.” – Bertie

Hades 2 (Switch 2)

“This has become my current happy place game! I’m surprised because I wasn’t that ‘in’ to Hades 1, but this one is different. It’s a generous package with something new to discover every time you play.” – Bertie

Critical Role (web series)

“A few years ago, I wouldn’t have predicted I’d become a ‘Critter,’ but here we are. There’s so much to love about it: the deep character work, the laughs, the sense of community, and the inclusivity.” – Bertie

Lost Odyssey (Xbox 360)

“This was the first RPG I believe I ever played, and you really can’t beat your first. The story was perhaps too good for my teenage brain, but something about the world, about the music, captured me.” – Connor

Guild Wars 2 (PC)

“Gosh, this really is probably my favorite MMO of all time. It’s a game where I could play for another five years and be happy throughout.” – Connor

Too Human (Xbox 360)

“This game isn’t one of the best. But it was there at just the right point in my life. Everyone has a game they know isn’s amazing but has a place close to their heart.” – Connor

Football Manager (PC)

“One of the things that makes Football Manager feel like something of a safe space is the fact it doesn’t really feel like a video game. It’s where I can motivate a team perfectly, replay conversations, and formulate and execute my plan.” – Chris

FTL: Faster Than Light (PC, iOS)

“I have a lot of happy places. After Football Manager I could’ve put a childhood game here. But there is just something about FTL that even now, after years of writing about it, I struggle to truly put down.” – Chris

So, what’s your video game happy place? We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Source: Eurogamer