Let’s be fair. Some nights you can't sleep. Maybe you have a mid-morning flight that you don't want to miss; maybe your neighbors are making too much noise, or maybe you have other concerns that weigh you down to the point that you can't doze off. It happens.
Fortunately, there are some games that will help you pass the time in the best possible way when you can't catch Z's. Whether you're looking for something to keep you entertained for hours, or just for short periods, you'll find this list of games useful. to help you get through a restless night.
Tetris 99 / Tetris Effect
Tetris is always a great table when it comes to playing late into the night. However, there are two variations you can choose from, depending on what you want.
The first is Tetris 99, the multiplayer version of the classic favorite. It's a battle royale with a twist, as you take on 99 other players - AI or humans - in the hopes of being the last player standing. It's so addicting; you might find yourself over and over again trying to become the champion. Or it could wear you down enough to finally fall into dreamland.
If you'd prefer something a little more calming, there's the Tetris effect. Produced by the same team that brought you Rez Infinite, it takes the standard rules of favorite Pajitnov and folds it around several fascinating themes. The soundtrack alone makes the game worth buying, but the additional gameplay components and dazzling visuals are welcome additions as well. This will give you a little ease, maybe enough to finally sleep.
Download it here from the Epic Games Store, and here for PlayStation 4.
The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Feeling nervous and can't quite ease the tension? Next, turn to Link and his latest adventure for Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. This classic top-to-bottom favorite gets a wonderful visual transformation, but features the same old-fashioned gameplay you'd expect from the original. And with all that you need to find in the game, you'll find it to be a stimulating, yet welcoming experience that should eliminate those negative vibes. A few laps with Link, and you might find yourself happily sleeping the next day, where you can resume the journey.
Super Mario Maker 2
Sometimes you need a little retro flair to find what you are looking for. And Super Mario Maker 2 on Nintendo Switch is just the game to give it to you. In this sequel, you can build the levels of your dreams - or nightmares - and then share them with others. Plus, you can see what the community has to offer in return, whether you're looking for a cake or an evil challenge that requires split-second timing. After a few rounds, you may find yourself eager to create something new - or finally feel like you've conquered the impossible, and thus acquired the ability to doze off. (It's a sweet reward, tell yourself what.)
Untitled Goose Game
Can a goose help you find peace of mind? Especially if it's embarrassing who likes to steal stuff and be a complete pain in the ass? Surprisingly, yes. Untitled Goose Game is a journey in itself, a fun, sometimes hilarious, game that will challenge you to annoy the next human that appears in your life. Horn like a mad goose and flap your wings to intimidate, then fly, fly, fly until the day is yours. You would be surprised at how happy and stress free you feel about being a disturbing goose to others. (Don't try it in real life, yeah?)
Sayonara Wild Hearts
Finally, Simogo has something that will truly mesmerize you, in case you want to experience a dream world and can't quite do it on your own. Sayonara Wild Hearts follows a woman on a journey of transformation, through a series of beautiful stages. Plus, the entire game is backed up by a fantastic soundtrack, which is even better once you put on a headset. You might also find yourself buying it on iTunes and then listening to it while you finally retire for some much-needed sleep.
