We know it's been a hell of a stressful period with exam after exam to go through and (what feels like) the world resting on your shoulders, but breathe! GSCE results day is here at last and whatever you got and however happy you are with it, at least you don't have to wonder anymore.
Of course it sucks if you didn't get the results you wanted, but it's not the end of the world. Whatever way you're feeling about them today, here are some brilliant mobile games to help you mellow the hell out.
If you're not getting your GCSE results but are feeling particularly stressed at the moment, this one's for you too.
Flower - download for £4.99/$4.99
Off the bat I'll say this is a game that won't be for everyone. Maybe you don't like flowers or maybe you're not so into games with no designated direction, it's a subjective matter. For those who love lush, relaxing experiences, this is something you're going to want to have a go at.
You harness the power of the wind to move flower petals through the level, blowing them past other flowers and through fields of swaying grass to solve very light puzzles. More than anything, the soundtrack is what really settles you in and it's not a particularly long game either. Perfect to kick back with for a little bit of 'you' time.
Prune - download for £3.99/$3.99
You've got plenty of levels to work through in Prune, but with no timer or deadline to rush you onwards you can go at your own pace and experience the game for what it really is. Just so, so relaxing.
The idea is that you plant a seed and watch your tree sprout upwards. As it grows you have to get it into a patch of sunlight by controlling the way it moves. This can be done by chopping off branches to give it more energy so that flowers can bloom.
While that doesn't sound particularly relaxing, you'll get a feel for it when you play. It's really something special.
Shadowmatic - download for £3.99/$3.99
Shadowmatic does require you to think a little bit into what you're doing, but not by much. It's a beautifully designed puzzler with striking visuals, a wonderful use of light (duh), and is just simple, pleasant fun.
More than anything it's a game about manipulation and discovery. By twisting and turning the level's object you can find a different picture in its shadow. Together with a totally chill musical score, it's bound to give you a few moments peace whenever you feel like jumping into it.
Burly Men at Sea - download for £4.99/$4.99
Okay, hear me out on this one. More than your tradition meditative game, Burly Men at Sea is a story-based adventure which plays out kind-of like a storybook. Like Flower, this won't be for everyone, but as far as 'games to chill you out go' this one is rather wonderful.
Set in early 20th-century Scandinavia, the story always starts of in the same place, but branches off into different tales of mythology and folklore. Its visuals are simplistic, its pacing is unhurried, and it's just a joy to discover the stories waiting within.
Tiny Bubbles - download for £3.99/$3.99
Yes, I know this game requires you to think a little bit, but have you ever gotten stressed out and then played with a bunch of bubble wrap? You get where I'm going with this.
Tiny Bubbles can be a little tricky at times, but the sheer satisfaction that comes from popping bubbles and watching them break apart or form bigger bubbles is so, so good. What makes it so enthralling is its realistic physics engine and the fact that anyone can play. Even if you're way past GCSE levels, this game is still going to chill you out.
