For cozy gamers who enjoy a good book, there’s something magical about finding games that bring beloved stories to life or discovering a novel inspired by a favorite game. Whether you’re someone who loves to read and immerse yourself in fictional worlds, or you prefer to experience the story through gameplay, there’s a way to blend these two passions seamlessly.

Here are some cozy game and book pairings, along with tips to create your ultimate cozy reading and gaming experience.

1. Play a Story, Then Read It

Some games are directly inspired by famous books, allowing you to explore the stories interactively. If you love reading and gaming, why not combine both? Here are some games where you can play the story and then dive into the book for a deeper experience:

• The Little Prince: Interactive Adventure
  This cozy game captures the essence of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. It’s a relaxing journey across different planets, learning about life, love, and friendship. After playing, reading the original book will give you a new appreciation for its depth and charm.
• The Lord of the Rings: Adventure Card Game
  If you’ve always loved the world of The Lord of the Rings, this card game offers a slower-paced, strategy-based experience. Once you’ve spent time adventuring in Middle-earth, you can dive into Tolkien’s rich novels to explore the lore and history behind the game.

2. Read the Book First, Then Experience the Game

If you’re someone who prefers to read first, there are cozy games that offer the perfect continuation of your literary adventures. After you finish a book, step into its world through a game:

• The Pillars of the Earth
  Based on Ken Follett’s novel, this narrative-driven game brings the epic historical tale to life. If you’ve enjoyed reading the novel, the game offers an immersive experience, focusing on character relationships and the construction of a cathedral in medieval times. The cozy, slow-paced gameplay matches the feel of the book’s deep historical setting.
• Alice in Wonderland-Inspired Games
  After reading Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland, you can explore the many whimsical games inspired by this story. Some games are cozy with a lighthearted atmosphere, perfect for fans of the book who love curious puzzles and exploration.
• Hogwarts Legacy
  Fans of the Harry Potter series will find Hogwarts Legacy to be a dream come true. This open-world game lets you explore the wizarding world in a way that feels deeply immersive and cozy. After you’ve experienced the magic of the game, revisit J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books to relive the story and immerse yourself further in the wizarding world. It’s the perfect combination of nostalgic reading and cozy gaming, where you can live out your magical fantasies.

3. For Cozy Gamers Who Love to Read About Games

There’s a growing trend of books written about games, which can make for a cozy read between gaming sessions. Here are some options to cozy up with a good book about games:

• Blood, Sweat, and Pixels by Jason Schreier
  If you love understanding the development side of games, this book dives into the creation process of some popular games. It’s an easy and fascinating read that pairs well with your favorite cozy games.
• Press Reset by Jason Schreier
  Another book by Schreier that gives insights into the world of game development and the challenges behind creating beloved games. It’s a great companion for when you’re unwinding with a cup of tea.

Tips for Combining Reading and Gaming:

• Create a Cozy Reading & Gaming Corner
  Design a space where you can transition from reading to gaming comfortably. A cozy chair with a side table for your books and your gaming device nearby will make switching between these two hobbies feel effortless.
• Schedule Downtime for Both
  Balance your time between reading and gaming by designating specific times for each. For example, read a chapter or two in the morning and unwind with a cozy game in the evening. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
• Explore Narrative-Driven Games
  Many cozy games offer deep narratives, similar to reading a book. Games like A Monster’s Expedition offer charming stories with slow, thoughtful gameplay that lets you savor the experience, much like reading a novel.
• Read Game-Inspired Books
  Some games have inspired books that explore their worlds in more depth. Look for official or fan-made novels based on your favorite cozy games to immerse yourself in the world even more.

Do you love reading and gaming?

For cozy gamers who also love to read, finding the right balance between these two relaxing hobbies can lead to a magical experience. Whether you’re reading a book and then stepping into its world through gameplay, or discovering new stories in your favorite cozy games, the combination of reading and gaming is a match made in heaven.

What cozy book-to-game pairings are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!