Subnautica is almost an outlier to the rule but the ocean triggers a phobia so I can’t play it. The Long Dark is probably the best example of a survival game with crafting that I do really like.
In general anything with crafting and/or excessive loot. I find it very boring and especially when a game is advertised as “survival” when in reality it is just a crafting game with no real threat.
Every storefront is DRM, some better than others, and people shouldn’t get so tied to a specific one. PC gaming is so open and getting angry at this is pointless.
It will be because of the “First Run” deal that Epic offers, so you’ll get to play in 6 months. I don’t blame the studio for doing it though but it’s not ideal for some.
I wouldn’t even call myself a football fan but the management part if very fun. Currently in the 6th tier and working on promotion.
Circuit Superstars
I bought the Switch Version so I can just pick up and play whenever and so far it is very good. It’s a nice mix of arcade racing with some realistic parts like pit stops and tyre wear. Hopefully online racing is still populated so I can give that a go.
I can’t think of any memorable “hacking” type ones as they all just become a chore by the end. Fable II has some wood chopping, pie making and lute playing that wasn’t so bad if you can get a high multiplier going.
As for actual “games within a game” then Shenmue series has many gambling and arcade machines. Roll it On Top, Lucky Hit, Darts and then Arterburner, Space Barrier, Outrun and Hang On.
I think if console is your way of gaming then upgrading to a PS4 or XBSX is alright.
Personally I only bought an XSS because it was relatively cheap last year (plus Gamepass with the £1 upgrade offer) but I’m done with future consoles now. PC gaming doesn’t have to expensive so that’s the way forward for myself.
I play for a few hours most nights but I will say that the devs come across as so inept it is equally fun & frustrating. When the teamwork just naturally works there is nothing that can beat it but the amount of bugs and performance issues majorly let it done.