Orchard Hollow

Orchard Hollow is the game I recommend to people who say they don't like games. You tend an orchard, restore an old mill, and get to know a village of quiet characters. Everything is tap-based and gentle, and the game happily waits for you.

What sets it apart is that it doesn't punish you for logging off. There's no energy meter forcing you to come back, no crops that spoil if you sleep in. You play when you feel like it, and the world is still there.

It sips battery because there's very little going on graphically, which is a plus. I keep it on my phone for train rides and slow evenings.

What we liked

• No punishing energy or timers
• Gentle tap controls throughout
• Very light on battery