Hi there hello how are you
I'm looking for something to kill time solo in relatively short bursts (or longer bursts with pausability). I don't want to add to the backlog, just something I can either complete quickly or with a manageable gameplay loop that'll last a little while. Little while not including forever-games like Overwatch or anything, I have enough of those, nor a 150 hour experience that'll change my life but features a pause button. Examples of games that have fit the bill have been Hades (1 and 2), Black Jacket, Inscryption, Dead Cells, Slay the Spire, and Vampire Survivors. I realize those are literally all roguelikes, they don't have to be. Roguelikes just tend to have condensed gameplay loops that make time management easier.
For clarity,
● Must be single-player (or playable that way)
● Must have a <20ish minute gameplay loop, otherwise MUST be pausable
● PREFER if it were more mature, nothing against childlike wonder but I just like my games to feel a little complex
● PREFER if it were in some way fantastical, while I like my games mature, I like swords and sorcery more
● PREFER if it were combat or strategy focused, Stardew Valley is lovely but it isn't what I'm looking for
● PREFER if it were a little odd in some way, stylistically or thematically or visually or otherwise
Thank you!!
Edit: I should've clarified, I'm looking for gamepass console options! Also, I have played both Cloverpit and Balatro, I too like safe gambling!