Billie’s ode to Cozy Girl Gaming.
Listen, I barely have to vaguely gesture around at the general state of the world to tell you why it might be nice to have a hobby that allows you to have a little break from reality right about now. If you haven’t really dabbled with gaming/the online world too much before I don’t blame you, but I’m here to plead my case on why you should consider stepping into the gaming world if you’re looking for a bit of self care.
To set the scene, I’ve always been chronically online. That’s why I’m a fast typer, will spit a stream of Vine quotes, and may reference classic YouTube videos at any given time, so it should be no surprise that I also love to game from time to time.
I was the type of young girl who religiously played her Gameboy Advance/DS (Pokemon Ruby, Spyro and Hamtaro had my heart!), I’ve dabbled in PC gaming, and now I’m playing on Playstation 5 and Nintendo Switch (Zelda Breath of the Wild is still one of the best games I’ve ever played!).
Recently my sister in law (shout out Steph) introduced me to my obsession over summer, Infinity Nicky. In this game you explore the world with your best friend Momo (a cat) and save the world by collecting cute outfits. Additionally, every ‘ability’ comes with a different outfit– so you’re constantly being delivered pretty, cute, stimulating costumes alongside a stunning storyline and scenery. PLUS, it’s free to download and available on Playstation 5, iOS, Android and PC.
This TikTok describes it best, it is truly a game “for the girlypops”:
Plus, Jessie J sings the theme song (I’m not kidding):
Despite the outdated stereotype that gaming is a male-dominated space, New Zealand’s gaming community is almost evenly split, with nearly 50% female players. And yet, female gamers still face barriers and stigma in the industry.
Logitech G NZ ambassadors Nemsysis Gaming and Meowsparky are not only exceptional gamers — they’re creators, innovators, and role models within the NZ gaming community. From building engaged online communities to breaking down barriers for women in gaming, they each bring unique stories of success.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Billie spoke to these two women on what their community means to them, and recommendations on games for those who may not have dipped their toe into gaming or the online community before.
What first got you into gaming, and what keeps you passionate about it today?
Meowsparky: Growing up as an only child, I often felt bored and lonely. Gaming opened up an entirely new world where I could be anyone, do anything, and escape into exciting adventures for hours. It was my way of feeling connected, even when I was by myself. Today, gaming is still about connection, but in a different way—through online communities. I’ve made so many real friendships through gaming, and being part of a community that shares my passion keeps me coming back.
Nemsysis: I first got into gaming during the COVID season. Being stuck indoors was not fun, but gaming helped me escape and stay connected with others - as well as meet some new people. Since then, gaming has become more than just a pastime— it’s a passion. The excitement, strategy, and community keeps me hooked, and I love how it’s a space where I can challenge myself and connect with amazing people from all around the world.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about female gamers that you’d love to break?
Nemsysis: That women don’t take gaming seriously or aren’t as skilled as men. Gaming is for anyone who loves it, and skill doesn’t depend on gender—it depends on dedication, practice, and passion. I would love to see a time where we stop assuming that women aren’t just as competitive and driven as their male counterparts.
Meowsparky: That girls aren’t good gamers. I’m constantly impressed by how skilled women are, and how much effort they put into mastering game mechanics. The stereotype that gaming is a "guy thing" is so outdated—women belong here just as much as anyone else.
What advice would you give to young girls who love gaming but feel hesitant to step into the community?
Meowsparky: Find a group of friends to play with—it makes the experience way more fun. And if you don’t have one yet, don’t worry! You’ll find great people in-game who are always down to team up. Gaming is meant to be enjoyed, and there’s a place for you here.
Nemsysis: My advice would be: Don’t be afraid to start! The gaming community is huge, and there’s space for everyone. Trust in your passion, ignore the negativity, and find people who lift you up. Gaming is about having fun, learning, and improving, so go for it, and let your voice be heard!
What does International Women’s Day mean to you as a gamer, and how would you like to see more women celebrated in gaming?
Nemsysis: International Women’s Day is a day to reflect on how far women have come and how much further we can go in gaming. It’s about celebrating the achievements of female gamers, streamers, and developers who’ve paved the way, and supporting the next generation. I’d love to see more women celebrated in gaming by having our stories and achievements recognized, whether it’s through events, partnerships, or just more visibility in the industry.
Meowsparky: To me, International Women’s Day is about celebrating how amazing and capable women are in every field—including gaming. I’d love to see more encouragement for women to pursue their passions without judgment.
There’s a big cultural difference in how boys and girls are encouraged to engage with hobbies—boys are often supported in investing time into their passions, while girls are sometimes made to feel like theirs aren’t as valid. That needs to change. Women should be able to fully embrace their interests, whether it’s gaming, motorsport, or anything else, without hesitation.
What are you currently playing right now?
Nemsysis: Right now, I’m fully immersed in Valorant—it’s the perfect mix of strategy, teamwork, and precision shooting. The intensity of each match keeps me so hooked.
Meowsparky: iRacing has been my main focus for the past year. I love competing in online sim racing and using its realistic physics to improve my real-life driving skills. I also got really into Palworld over Christmas—that game is absolutely wild!
What are a couple of your can't-live-without gaming products?
Nemsysis: My Logitech G502 X wireless mouse and Logitech A50X headset are absolute essentials. They give me the most reliable accuracy I need in competitive games like Valorant and the comfort I need for long gaming sessions. The sound quality is incredible too, which is ideal for blasting loud music while I play.
Meowsparky: My Astro A50 X headset is my forever companion. Sound quality is so important to me, and I love that I never have to worry about charging—it just sits in its dock and stays topped up.
Sim racing is my main passion right now, and I’m determined to become the best female sim racer in New Zealand. My Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel & Pedals have been game-changing for my progress. The force feedback and realism help me feel the road and refine my racing skills, making them an essential part of my journey.
If our Billie readers are looking to dip their toes into gaming, what ‘Cozy Girl Games’ would you recommend and why?
Nemsysis: If you're looking for a cozy MMO with chill vibes, Palia blends life-sim mechanics (fishing, farming, decorating, and cooking) with an open-world multiplayer experience. You can explore it at your own pace, make friends (both NPC and real players), and customize your character and home however you like. The art style is so soft and dreamy, and the game really encourages collaboration without pressure—perfect for players who love the community feel of Animal Crossing but want a more open-world adventure.
It’s free-to-play too, so it’s an easy one to try if you're new to gaming!
Meowsparky: I'm loving Spirit City: Lo-Fi Sessions on Steam. It's a gamified focus tool, set to a soothing lofi soundtrack where you collect little spirit creatures and customize your room and avatar. It's super cute and really helped with my productivity. All cozy game lovers should check it out.
Here's a screenshot of my character:
