In the wake of Covid-19, one recommendation has been doled out over and over again: stay home. It’s quite possible that you’ve fantasized about never having to leave the house before—a time where you’re supposed to be lazy and stay inside for the good of society. It’s a glorious proposition, but after a few days you’re gonna start to feel stir crazy.
If you need a break from The Office reruns and all the bad news, you’re not alone. To protect your mental health, the World Health Organization advises taking a break from the news. Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite smartphone distractions.
Prefer to game on a larger screen? Check out our favorite console and PC games to play if you’re stuck inside. For passing the time passively, our list of what to watch while you’re stuck inside may help.
WIRED is providing unlimited free access to stories about the coronavirus pandemic. Sign up for our Coronavirus Update to get the latest in your inbox.
When you buy something using the links in our stories, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Photograph: mytona
Solve Puzzles in Solitude
Ravenhill: Hidden Mystery
In Ravenhill, you must find hidden objects in pictures, kind of like those bizarre I-Spy books from when you were little. Come for the immersive storyline, satisfying sounds, lovely graphics, and fun match-three minigames. Stay because you can play this forever. Seriously: if you don’t lose a level, you can just keep playing, and playing, and playing.
I’ve played this game every day since October 2019 and I have yet to get sick of it. If it’s a bit too easy for your taste, the same developer makes a harder version called . (Yes, I play that one, too.)
Photograph: Tru Luv
A Game Where You Stay in Bed
#SelfCare
This game is all about staying in bed. There’s no way to win, no clear objectives, and no timers or countdowns. The game encourages you to be gentle with yourself and be mindful of your own mental state. Sweet reminders (there’s no rush) and bits of encouragement (the storm will pass) will leave you feeling peaceful after each session. Added bonus? Your laundry sorts itself with just a few taps. is a similar game with a less overtly feminine design.
Photograph: Blizzard