
When you’re in an altered state of mind, the world of gaming transforms into something entirely different. The colors are brighter, the sounds are more immersive, and the narratives feel like they’re speaking directly to your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for something to enhance your high, here are some of the best games to play when you’re feeling elevated.
1. Journey (2012)
Platform: PlayStation, PC, iOS
“Journey” is a masterpiece that feels like it was designed specifically for those moments when you’re floating on a cloud. The game’s minimalist design, coupled with its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, creates an experience that is both meditative and emotionally resonant. As you glide across vast deserts and ancient ruins, the game’s abstract storytelling allows your mind to wander and interpret the narrative in ways that are deeply personal. It’s a game that doesn’t just entertain but also invites introspection.
2. No Man’s Sky (2016)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to explore an infinite universe while high, “No Man’s Sky” is your answer. The game’s procedurally generated planets offer an endless array of landscapes to discover, each more surreal than the last. The sense of isolation and wonder is amplified when you’re in an altered state, making every new discovery feel like a profound moment of connection with the cosmos. Plus, the game’s vibrant color palette and ambient soundscape are perfect for enhancing your sensory experience.
3. Tetris Effect (2018)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, VR
“Tetris Effect” takes the classic puzzle game and elevates it to an almost spiritual level. The game’s synesthetic visuals and hypnotic music create a trance-like state that is perfect for when you’re high. Each level is a sensory overload, with colors and patterns that seem to pulse and flow in time with the music. It’s a game that can make you feel like you’re part of something much larger than yourself, as if you’re tapping into the very fabric of the universe.
4. Abzû (2016)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch
Dive into the depths of the ocean with “Abzû,” a game that is as much about exploration as it is about meditation. The game’s underwater world is teeming with life, from schools of fish to majestic whales, all rendered in stunning detail. The serene atmosphere and soothing soundtrack make it an ideal choice for when you’re high, allowing you to lose yourself in the beauty of the marine world. It’s a game that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the moment, something that is often lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
5. Katamari Damacy Reroll (2018)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch
“Katamari Damacy Reroll” is a game that thrives on absurdity, making it a perfect match for an altered state of mind. The premise is simple: you roll a sticky ball around, picking up objects that range from thumbtacks to entire cities. The game’s quirky humor and colorful visuals are a delight to experience when you’re high, and the sheer joy of watching your ball grow larger and larger is incredibly satisfying. It’s a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and neither should you.
6. The Stanley Parable (2013)
Platform: PC, Mac, Linux
“The Stanley Parable” is a game that plays with your expectations and challenges your perception of reality. As you navigate through a series of increasingly bizarre scenarios, the game’s narrator provides a running commentary that is both hilarious and thought-provoking. When you’re high, the game’s meta-narrative and existential themes can take on a whole new meaning, making you question the nature of choice, free will, and the very fabric of existence. It’s a game that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
7. LSD: Dream Emulator (1998)
Platform: PlayStation
“LSD: Dream Emulator” is a game that feels like it was designed specifically for altered states of consciousness. The game’s surreal visuals and disjointed narrative create an experience that is both disorienting and mesmerizing. Each “dream” is a unique and unpredictable journey, filled with strange landscapes and even stranger characters. When you’re high, the game’s dreamlike quality is amplified, making it feel like you’re truly exploring the recesses of your own mind.
8. Minecraft (2011)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch, Mobile
“Minecraft” is a game that offers endless possibilities, making it a great choice for when you’re high. Whether you’re building elaborate structures, exploring vast landscapes, or simply wandering through the blocky world, the game’s open-ended nature allows you to create your own experience. The game’s simple graphics and soothing soundtrack make it easy to get lost in, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something from scratch is incredibly rewarding.
9. Rez Infinite (2016)
Platform: PlayStation, PC, VR
“Rez Infinite” is a game that blurs the line between music and visuals, creating an experience that is both auditory and visual. The game’s pulsating beats and neon visuals are perfect for when you’re high, creating a sensory overload that is both exhilarating and hypnotic. The game’s VR mode takes this experience to the next level, making you feel like you’re truly inside the game. It’s a game that is as much about feeling as it is about playing.
10. Stardew Valley (2016)
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Switch, Mobile
“Stardew Valley” is a game that offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of everyday life. The game’s charming pixel art and relaxing soundtrack make it an ideal choice for when you’re high, allowing you to immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of farming, fishing, and building relationships with the townsfolk. The game’s slow pace and lack of pressure make it easy to lose yourself in, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from building your own little world is incredibly satisfying.
Related Q&A
Q: What makes a game good to play when high? A: Games that are visually stimulating, have immersive soundtracks, and offer a sense of exploration or creativity are often the best choices when you’re high. These elements can enhance your sensory experience and make the game feel more engaging.
Q: Are there any games that are specifically designed for altered states of consciousness? A: While most games aren’t specifically designed for altered states, some, like “LSD: Dream Emulator” and “Rez Infinite,” have elements that make them particularly well-suited for such experiences. These games often feature surreal visuals, abstract narratives, and immersive soundscapes that can enhance your high.
Q: Can playing games while high affect your gameplay? A: Yes, playing games while high can affect your gameplay in various ways. You might find that you’re more immersed in the game’s world, or that you interpret the narrative in ways you wouldn’t normally. However, it can also affect your reaction time and decision-making, so it’s important to choose games that match your current state of mind.
Q: Are there any risks to playing games while high? A: While playing games while high can be a fun and immersive experience, it’s important to be mindful of your limits. Some people might find that certain games can be overwhelming or disorienting when they’re high, so it’s important to choose games that you’re comfortable with and to take breaks if needed.
Q: Can playing games while high enhance creativity? A: Many people find that playing games while high can enhance their creativity, as the altered state of mind can lead to new ways of thinking and problem-solving. Games that encourage exploration, creativity, and experimentation, like “Minecraft” or “Stardew Valley,” can be particularly good for this.