An era of Cozy, Idle Games
Lately, I have seen an increase in games that are semi-idle. The purpose of these games are not for fast-paced action, but rather collecting things passively over time.
Several of these are games tend to lean more into creature collecting. It's the easiest genre that lends itself, as collection is an innately rewarding experience.
Isles of Isvenness
Recently I tried out the demo for Isles of Isvenness. The game takes the game design a step further, by cerating three islands which you can drag throughout your screen.
Yup, that means you can have the game and Hive on your same screen. Yup... here's how it looks like while I'm writing this aritcle:
Summoning Creatures
One of the core features is summoning and collecting monster. By summoning multiples, you can then upgrade your creatures, which earns them new abilities.
You can place up to 8 creatures in your party to gather resources in your three islands.
Idle Play
The game is designed for Idle Play. While you are doing whatever you want to be doing, your creatures will be gathering resources. The island can be easily dragged and they can be re-sized!
Then, you can spend the resources to summon more creatures. This is important. Each monster starts with 1 out of 4 abilities which can be used in Missions.
During Missions, you are given the required skills, and you can select the monsters that can satisfy all skills. Then, the mission will take course over time (e.g. 15 minutes). If successful, you will get a nice reward!
Relaxing Music
The game comes with 6 selectable tracks which really help me relax and focus! I really love Track #4.
Because the game style is so passive, it demands practically no attention and I can divert focus whenever I need a small mental break.
I found it incredibly relaxing, as soon as I hear the music getting started.
Free Demo
And the good news? You can check out the demo for free: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3440340/Isles_of_Isvenness/
It's not intensive, it's very smooth to drag around, and I had a great experience. I'd love to hear what other people think about such idle games.