The creators of Edge were forced to come up with something different for the newest issue of the long-running game magazine. Confined to their homes and forced to cancel a traditional print distribution for “E345” due to the coronavirus pandemic, the writers and editors sat down and channeled their feelings of frustration into “Feel Better,” a list of games that might just add some color to these dark times.
I’ll let the magazine’s Editor, Nathan Brown, explain:
The games we celebrate this issue share one defining characteristic. They make you feel better. Most are non-violent, or at least nonconfrontational – games for the monkey rather than the lizard brain, that are about helping others, not hindering them. Some combat the anxieties we all feel about the rapidly changing world around us; others offer an escape to a simpler, happier place. Most are suitable for the whole family. Above all they are games that will make you feel better when you stand up than you did when you sat down. We hope that reading about them helps in some way. It has certainly helped us to write about them.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is there, of course, as are Stardew Valley and Minecraft. But “Feel Better” goes beyond those three to feature a total of 52 games, and each one is a gem.
There’s the bright colors and boundless energy of found in games like Jet Set Radio, Katamari Damacy, and Splatoon 2. Or you can unleash your inner musician with DJ Hero and Donkey Kong: Jungle Beat. Readers are even encouraged to get on their feet with recommendations for Ring Fit Adventure and Wii Sports Resort.
“Feel Better” is Brown’s final issue at the helm of Edge, and he should absolutely be proud of his work. The entire list can be found after the break.
