Best Games for Summer Smiles
It’s summertime and you’re ready to escape into the sunny vibes, even if you’re indoors with the AC blasting. Maybe you’re in the middle of winter dreaming of warm sand, or it’s still hot in the fall, and you want that cheerful summer feeling without the sweat. The right games can whisk you away in a heartbeat, serving up bright worlds, easygoing fun, and just the right dose of adventure.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons, available on Nintendo Switch
Few games embody that laid-back summer charm quite like Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Your island paradise syncs with the seasons in your real-life location, so if it’s July outside, it’s July in-game. But even during winter, the charm never fades, your neighbours stroll in shorts, the sun shines often, and every corner feels like a lazy vacation afternoon. Summer in AC:NH means fishing at sunset, chasing rare bugs, and hosting campfire hangouts without worrying about sunburns or mosquitoes.
Planet of Lana
On the surface, Planet of Lana doesn’t sound like a summer daydream; you’re navigating a lush alien world to save your sister from mysterious machines. But the artistry is breathtaking: golden sunlight on green meadows, tranquil forests swaying in the breeze, and gentle waters glistening in the background. The warm palette and natural beauty make it feel like a summer painting come to life, even as the story keeps you on your toes.
Super Mario Sunshine
If there’s a game that evokes the nostalgia of a summer vacation, it’s Super Mario Sunshine. Mario swaps the Mushroom Kingdom for the tropical Isle Delfino, where palm trees sway and crystal waters sparkle. Sure, you’re there to clean up a mysterious goop and save the day, but between spraying water with FLUDD and hopping across sunny rooftops, you can almost feel the ocean breeze. It’s a platformer that brings back memories of summers past.
A Short Hike
Some games are pure heart, and A Short Hike is one of them. You play as a bird exploring a charming island, chatting with quirky locals, climbing trails, and gliding through open skies. Every moment feels like a small-town summer festival mixed with the peace of a mountain getaway. It’s cosy, funny, and over far too soon, like a perfect day outdoors.
Summer-Themed Slots for a Quick Getaway
Sometimes summer fun means a quick digital escape, and the online casino world has its own sunshine-ready picks. Chilli Heat Megaways turns up the heat with mariachi tunes and vibrant Mexican streets, while Summer Spins is all about bright beaches and incredible wins. Summer of Luck goes full vacation mode with sun hats, sunglasses, and tropical drinks on the reels. It’s no wonder that one of the most popular slots games among seasonal fans mixes colourful themes with that beachy energy. Whether you’re chasing big wins or just enjoying the visuals, these titles can make a rainy day feel like a seaside getaway.
From slow island living to adrenaline-packed spins, there’s a summer game for every mood. Whether you’re exploring tropical beaches with Mario, gliding over mountaintops in A Short Hike, or lining up sunny wins on your favourite slot, you can keep the warmth and joy of summer alive all year long, no matter what mood you’re in.