I couldn't find if this was linked to a study or was anecdotal, because of the scroll.

A common issue with studying the effects of gaming is most studies are studying 1-2 blocks or light gaming schedules. I think most of the population is doing that, but there are people playing 4+ hours a day, most days. When articles are shared about the positive effects of gaming, a lot of people read them as though the effects must apply to them. Maybe they do! I don't see a lot of studies on this population.

I feel the same with this article, because I don't find Stardew Valley super relaxing. I think it's aesthetically relaxing, but mechanically stressful. Trying to complete the quests on time or get a certain item before the season ends is stressful. I could go into it with a more relaxed attitude, but then how is the game cozier for me than others? I could go into Skyrim with that attitude. Maybe I am too rushed in my professional life to play games in a relaxing way.