Async games for stimulation without pressure

When you say “multiplayer game” today, you tend to think of real-time ones, like Fortnite, Call of Duty, DOTA or any of the kind. However, a lot of gamers tend to forget that there are asynchronous games that provide the same level of challenge while creating a more relaxing multiplayer experience.

Most high-quality chess websites like chess.com and chessworld.net offer asynchronous modes for those who want to play with people without the immediate pressure that’s found in normal modes.

And then there are the more hidden versions of asynchronous multiplayer gaming, born during the dawn of online gaming. Have you ever played games using emails?

Five game insights we think will pique your interest!

Of course, retro ASCII graphics aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. So there are a lot of other modern asynchronous games that might fit what you’re looking for—like The Battle of Polytopia! Think of Civilization mixed with all other games like Risk, that’s what it is.

Looking for something more like Settlers of Catan but can’t commit a lot of time to it? Go asynchronous, play at your leisure and install Landover! If the CEO of chess.com downright praises it, then it’s definitely worth looking into!

Alright, so you want to play asynchronous multiplayer but without involving strategy and competition, and instead focus on communication and cooperation? If you’re up for a horror experience with other people and help each other solve their puzzles to win, then Mirror Layers might be what you need.

Like building stuff? Like fighting other people with the stuff you made? Like chilling while your character does the heavy lifting for you? You’ll love Backpack Battles! If you’re the type of gamer who wants variety in builds and styles in an RPG game, then this is what you’re looking for.

The social aspect of multiplayer games is what gives it its appeal; organizing a group, doing stuff together and just having a blast with people. However, most real-time multiplayer games tend to become very saturated with competitive spirit, focusing more on winning than actually having fun, leading to toxicity.

An asynchronous multiplayer game cuts away that potentially toxic fat, and reveals the real meat that everyone wants—challenging fun played at your own leisure.

We have a quote that summarizes the toxic aspect of many online games nowadays, and this is from Soren Johnson, the lead game designer of Civilization IV:

“Given the opportunity, players will optimize the fun out of a game.”

The week ends here, so should your troubles at your job! Cleanse your work-addled mind by listening to our latest podcasts and playing a few of our games ‘til you’re fully relaxed.

And if you want to learn more about what we’re up to at Hey, Good Game, you can find out more right here.

That’s all for this week. See you next Friday!

The Hey, Good Game Team