My favorite social online games as a socially anxious person

If you have social anxiety, you may struggle with socializing online, or in person, or both. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine government implemented lockdowns. In my experience, socializing has become very challenging. So, I tried playing online games to slowly control my social anxiety.

Sky: Children of the Light

Under the creation of Thatgamecompany, you can fly the skies with your cape as you explore seven unique realms. Search for children of light and spirits that would give you winged light for your cape, candles which refer to the in-game currencies, and emotes among others.

This open-world online game focuses on social mechanics that allow you to befriend other players. There are social spaces in each realm, including Home, where you could socialize with other players.

You can also take a break here or meet with friends. If words are a bit much, you can express them in emotes and unlock special emotes exclusive between players who have grown their friendship. Download Sky: Children of the Light on mobile and/or Nintendo Switch!

Legends of Runeterra

Under the creation of Riot Games, Legends of Runeterra is closely based on the fictional world League of Legends is based on as well, Runeterra. Here, you get the choice of playing against artificial intelligence or other players.

The rules are simple, you take turns defending and attacking against your opponent. The cards have unique abilities and it is up to you how to play them to your advantage. I am in love with the visuals. Leveling up a champion plays a cut scene or a special visual only that champion has. Download Legends of Runeterra for free on PC and/or mobile!

Stardew Valley

If you have the money you want to spend on a chill PC game, I recommend Stardew Valley. It is a country-life RPG developed by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone. Take care of a farm, mine resources, battle in the mines, forage, take care of animals, fish in the waters, and/or socialize with the townspeople of Stardew Valley. You can even make your own farm with a friend in multiplayer.

In this game, I get to do all the things I want and I am not forced to do tasks I do not want to do. Playing with a friend in multiplayer is fun, too. You get to help each other in your own unique ways and share resources. Buy and download Stardew Valley now. You can even add mods via Steam to make your gameplay more comfortable and fun!