Best cozy video games to play during Christmas holidays

15. Valheim

During the Christmas season, Valheim allows players to transform their Viking settlements into a cozy winter festival. During this festive period, decorate your base with exclusive holiday items like the Yule Tree, Garlands, and Mistletoe. Remember to exchange Yuleklapp gift boxes, available in various sizes, bringing some Viking traditions to your celebrations. | © Iron Gate Studio

14. The Red Lantern

The Red Lantern is one of the most relaxing experiences to play during the Christmas season, as players can explore the snowy wilderness of Alaska and the spirit of the New Year. With a combination of relaxing gameplay and survival elements, this game offers a peaceful retreat amid the holiday bustle. | © Timberline Studio

13. GTA Online

GTA Online transforms Los Santos with holiday decorations and snowfall, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere in our favorite shooter. Players can also participate in different seasonal activities to earn exclusive rewards such as holiday-themed clothing, weapons, and vehicles. | © Rockstar Games

12. Disney Dreamlight Valley

Disney Dreamlight Valley has lots of holiday-themed duties, including famous ones like Cookie Taste Test and Do You Wanna Build a Snowman? Players can decorate their slice of the valley by crafting snowmen and other holiday decorations, and share crafted gifts wrapped in festive paper with their favorite Disney characters. | © Gameloft

11. The Sims 4

The Sims 4's version of Christmas is called Winterfest, where players can participate in tree decorating, gift exchanges, and a sumptuous family meal. Plus, players can interact with the community and enjoy holiday custom content and mods available online, adding unique decorations and new gameplay elements. | © Electronic Arts

10. Cozy Grove

In Cozy Grove, players can celebrate Christmas and New Year during the Winter Festival available from December 20 to January 23. This special event transforms the game into a haven, where you can build snowmen, have snowball fights, and craft unique gifts for the residents. | © Spry Fox

9. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley invites players to explore the festive farm during the Feast of the Winter Star event that happens on December 25. During this event, players can enjoy the secret gift exchange, decorate their farm with holiday-themed items, and complete quests near the Grand Christmas tree in the town square. | © ConcernedApe

8. The Long Dark

The Long Dark is one of the greatest survival experiences to play during the Christmas season, as the game's harsh winter environment echoes the very essence of the season. Holiday-themed content, like Christmas lights on the Mountaineer's Hut, also perfectly brings unique festive vibes to the game's snowy landscapes. | © Hinterland Studio

7. Bully

Bully, with Chapter 3 starting shortly before Christmas and ending sometime before spring, immerses players in a unique holiday atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes and festive decorations. The chapter also features festive missions where you can even assist a quirky hobo dressed as Santa. | © Rockstar Games

6. Metal Gear Solid

Metal Gear Solid is an iconic classic that is worth revisiting every holiday season. Across the vast landscapes covered with snow, this game is an ideal choice for those who love to spend long, cozy nights by the fire. | © Konami

5. Batman: Arkham Origins

The entire story of Arkham Origins revolves around Gotham City during the Christmas season, which transports players into a festive city with all the thematic design elements. This includes decorative Santas near Gothic gargoyles and Christmas lights in dark alleys, enhancing the seasonal atmosphere. | © Splash Damage

4. Lake

Grab your snow boots and a cup of hot cocoa for Lake’s holiday-themed DLC called Season's Greetings. For only 9,99 USD, you will be treated to a warm reunion with Providence Oaks and its inhabitants, as well as explore jolly storylines around a snowy town. | © Whitethorn Games

3. Mafia II

Mafia II is one of those unforgettable gaming experiences that will bring you to tears on Christmas day, especially when it is snowing outside. As you follow Vito Scaletta climbing the criminal underworld, the sound of classic Christmas tunes like Let It Snow fills the air, instantly evoking Christmas nostalgia. | © 2K Czech

2. Everybody Wham Wham

Everybody Wham Wham can bring the holiday spirit to gamers of any level, allowing them to participate in a snowman-building competition set in a winter wonderland. Players can combine creativity with strategy while crafting unique snowmen, competing in a friendly but festive competition. | © Bonte Avond

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons transforms into a winter wonderland in December, inviting players to enjoy the Christmas event and special "Toy Day" on the 24th. Players can also visit friends' islands and exchange thematic gifts, which adds a warm community feel for the Christmas season. | © Nintendo