The Game That Got Me into Gaming: Stardew Valley

I did not really play video games before Stardew Valley.

Gaming was never a big part of my life. I would see people play, and I understood why they enjoyed it, but I never found a game that truly felt like me.

Then I found Stardew Valley, and everything changed.

At first, I did not expect much. I thought I would try it for a little while and move on. But the moment I started building my farm, meeting people in town, and settling into those peaceful daily routines, I was hooked.

Stardew was the first game that made gaming feel welcoming instead of overwhelming.

There was no pressure to be perfect.
No need to be super competitive.
No stress to “win” quickly.

It was calm, creative, and comforting, and that experience stayed with me.

That is what got me into gaming in the first place, and it also introduced me to the cozy gaming genre that still feels like home to me today. Cozy games became more than entertainment. They became a way for me to relax, reset, and enjoy slow, meaningful moments.

Stardew Valley opened that door for me, and I am honestly so grateful it did.

That is a big part of why I built Pixel & Tea: a cozy space for people who love soft vibes, wholesome games, and kind community energy.

If Stardew Valley was your first cozy love too, I’d love to hear your story. ☕🎮