Simulation games are a genre of video games that allow players to simulate real-world activities or scenarios, often with a high degree of realism and attention to detail. These games can range from flight simulators and racing games to farming and city-building games, and everything in between.
Simulation games typically require players to manage various aspects of the game world, such as resources, finances, and personnel. They often feature complex systems and mechanics that players must learn and master in order to succeed. For example, in a farming simulator like Stardew Valley, players must plant and harvest crops, raise livestock, and manage their farm's finances to keep their business running smoothly. So let’s take a look at the best simulation games across platforms.
Best Simulation Games for Mobile
Mobile devices have become increasingly powerful in recent years, and this has led to the development of a range of high-quality simulation games for smartphones and tablets. Here are some of the best simulation games available on mobile.
1. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that offers a unique and peaceful gameplay experience. The game allows players to manage their own farm, plant crops, raise animals, and build relationships with the local townspeople.
The game's charming pixel art style and relaxing soundtrack create a calm and engaging environment that can be enjoyed for hours on end. Additionally, the game's seasonal events and festivals add a touch of excitement and variety to the gameplay.
Also read: Stardew Valley 1.6 Update Teased With New Features and Secrets
2. Rollercoaster Tycoon Classic
Rollercoaster Tycoon Classic is a classic simulation game that allows players to build and manage their own amusement park. The game offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience, with players having to manage everything from finances to staff to ride maintenance.
The game's detailed graphics and sound effects create a truly immersive environment that can provide hours of entertainment. Additionally, the game's sandbox mode allows for unlimited creativity and experimentation.
3. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp
Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is a mobile simulation game that allows players to manage their own campsite and interact with a variety of animal characters. The game's charming graphics and adorable characters create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere that is perfect for casual gaming.
Additionally, the game's social features allow players to connect with friends and trade items, adding a layer of community to the experience. The game was initially released in 2017 and has since become a popular choice for casual gamers. In the game, players manage their own campsite and interact with a variety of animal characters.
4. My Time at Portia
My Time at Portia is a farming and crafting simulation game that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. The game offers a unique blend of farming, crafting, and exploration, with players having to manage their own workshop and build relationships with the local townspeople.
The game was initially released in 2019 and takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. In the game, players manage their own workshop and build relationships with the local townspeople. The game features detailed graphics and an engaging storyline that create a truly immersive experience. The game also includes a variety of crafting and exploration mechanics that add depth to the gameplay.
Also read: Best Cozy Games to Play in 2023
5. Fallout Shelter
Fallout Shelter is a post-apocalyptic simulation game that allows players to manage their own underground vault. The game's retro-futuristic graphics and sound effects create a unique and engaging atmosphere that is perfect for fans of the Fallout franchise.
Additionally, the game's deep and engaging gameplay mechanics allow for endless hours of entertainment. The game was initially released in 2015 and has since become a popular choice for fans of the Fallout franchise. In the game, players manage their own underground vault and must keep their inhabitants happy and safe.
6. Settlement Survival
Settlement Survival is a survival simulation game that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. The game offers a unique blend of survival, crafting, and base-building mechanics, with players having to manage their own settlement and fend off threats from the outside world.
The game was initially released in 2021 and takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. In the game, players manage their own settlement and must fend off threats from the outside world. The game features detailed graphics and challenging gameplay mechanics that create a truly immersive experience.
7. FPV Freerider
FPV Freerider is a first-person view (FPV) drone racing simulator that offers a unique and exciting gameplay experience. The game allows players to fly a drone through a variety of obstacles and courses, with the goal of completing each course as quickly and efficiently as possible.
The game's realistic physics and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of drone racing. The game was initially released in 2015 and has since become a popular choice for fans of drone racing. In the game, players pilot a drone through a variety of obstacles and courses, with the goal of completing each course as quickly and efficiently as possible.
8. Pocket City 2
Pocket City 2 is a city-building simulation game that allows players to manage their own city and build it from the ground up. The game's charming graphics and engaging gameplay mechanics create a truly immersive experience that is perfect for fans of the genre.
Additionally, the game's sandbox mode allows for unlimited creativity and experimentation. The game was initially released in 2018 and allows players to manage their own city and build it from the ground up.
9. Papers, Please
Papers, Please is a unique and thought-provoking simulation game that puts players in the role of a border inspector. The game's engrossing storyline and challenging gameplay mechanics create a truly immersive experience that is both entertaining and educational.
The game was initially released in 2013 and has since become a cult classic in the genre. In the game, players are tasked with inspecting passports and other documents at a border checkpoint. The game features an engrossing storyline and challenging gameplay mechanics that create a truly immersive experience. Additionally, the game's multiple endings and branching storylines make it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.
10. RFS - Real Flight Simulator
RFS - Real Flight Simulator is a realistic flight simulation game that allows players to pilot a variety of different aircraft. The game's realistic graphics and physics create a truly immersive experience that is perfect for fans of the genre.
The game was initially released in 2019 and allows players to pilot a variety of different aircraft. The game features realistic graphics and physics that create a truly immersive experience. The game also includes a multiplayer mode that allows players to fly with friends and compete in a variety of challenges and events.
Best Simulation Games for PC
Simulation games have long been a popular genre on PC, with developers creating a range of engaging and immersive titles that allow players to simulate a variety of real-world activities. Here are some of the best simulation games available on PC.
1. Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a flight simulation game that allows players to pilot a variety of aircraft and explore the world in detail. The game's graphics and physics create a truly immersive experience, with players able to fly over real-world locations with stunning accuracy.
The game's weather and time-of-day effects also add to the realism, with players able to experience everything from clear skies to thunderstorms and hurricanes. With a variety of planes to choose from and an endless array of destinations to explore, Microsoft Flight Simulator offers an unparalleled flight experience that is sure to captivate aviation enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.
2. Kerbal Space Program
Kerbal Space Program is a space flight simulation game that challenges players to build and launch their own spacecraft. The game's physics engine is incredibly realistic, creating a unique and engaging experience that allows players to experiment with different designs and configurations.
With a variety of planets, moons, and asteroids to explore, players can embark on a wide range of missions, from simple orbital flights to complex interplanetary missions. The game was first released in 2011 and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The game challenges players to build and launch their own spacecraft, exploring the solar system and completing missions.
Also read: Top 10 Educational Video Games for Kids in 2023
3. War Thunder
War Thunder is a combat simulation game that allows players to pilot a variety of aircraft and tanks from World War II and beyond. The game's graphics and physics create a truly immersive experience, with players able to engage in dogfights, tank battles, and naval combat in a variety of locations and environments.
The game's multiplayer mode also allows players to form squadrons and compete against other players from around the world. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from and an endless array of scenarios to explore, War Thunder offers an exciting and engaging combat experience that is sure to appeal to history buffs and gamers alike.
4. Football Manager 2021
Football Manager 2021 is a sports simulation game that allows players to manage their own football team. The game's realistic graphics and in-depth gameplay make it a must-play for football fans, with players able to make decisions about tactics, training, and transfers as they guide their team to victory.
The game's database of players and teams is also incredibly comprehensive, allowing players to take control of any team from around the world. The game also features modding support, with a large community of players creating and sharing mods that add new content and features.
5. Crusader Kings III
Crusader Kings III is a grand strategy game that allows players to build their own dynasty, managing relationships, politics, and warfare. The game's detailed graphics and deep gameplay mechanics create a truly immersive experience, with players able to navigate the treacherous waters of medieval politics as they rise to power.
The game's system of alliances, marriages, and rivalries also adds to the realism, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The game allows players to build their own dynasty, managing relationships, politics, and warfare as they rise to power. The game features a highly detailed and complex system of alliances, marriages, and rivalries, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.
6. Factorio
Factorio is a factory building simulation game that challenges players to build and manage a complex factory. The game's graphics and gameplay mechanics create a unique and engaging experience, with players able to automate production and defend against alien attacks as they expand their factory.
The game was first released in 2016 and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The game challenges players to build and manage a complex factory, automating production and defending against alien attacks as they expand their factory. The game features a deep and complex system of production chains, allowing players to experiment with different designs and configurations.
7. Oxygen Not Included
Oxygen Not Included is a survival simulation game that challenges players to manage a group of colonists in a deep space asteroid. The game's graphics and gameplay mechanics create a unique and engaging experience, with players having to provide food, water, and oxygen to ensure their colonists' survival.
The game was first released in 2019 and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The game challenges players to manage a group of colonists in a deep space asteroid, providing food, water, and oxygen to ensure their survival. The game features a deep and complex system of resource management, allowing players to experiment with different strategies and configurations.
8. Euro Truck Simulator 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a truck simulation game that allows players to drive a variety of trucks across Europe, completing deliveries and building their own trucking company. The game's detailed graphics and realistic physics create an engaging and immersive experience, with players able to explore a wide range of environments and landscapes.
The game's customization options also allow for endless experimentation and customization, making it a must-play for fans of simulation and driving games. The game was first released in 2012 and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The game allows players to drive a variety of trucks across Europe, completing deliveries and building their own trucking company.
9. Railway Empire
Railway Empire is a train simulation game that allows players to build and manage their own railroad company. The game's graphics and gameplay mechanics create a unique and engaging experience, with players able to build and expand their rail network as they compete against rival companies.
The game's deep and complex systems also allow for endless experimentation and customization, making it a must-play for fans of simulation and strategy games. The game was first released in 2018 and is available for Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The game allows players to build and manage their own railroad company, competing against rival companies todominate the railway industry. The game features a highly detailed and realistic world map, with players able to build and customize their own rail network, including laying tracks, building stations, and managing train routes.
10. Planet Coaster
Planet Coaster is a theme park simulation game that allows players to build and manage their own theme park. The game's detailed graphics and deep gameplay mechanics create a truly immersive experience, with players able to design rides, attractions, and scenery to create a unique and engaging park. The game's customization optionsalso allow for endless experimentation and creativity, making it a must-play for fans of simulation and creativity-based games.
The game's sandbox mode allows players to build without any limitations, while the career mode challenges players to complete objectives and manage their park's finances. With a variety of customization options and an active community creating and sharing content, Planet Coaster offers an exciting and engaging theme park simulation experience that is sure to appeal to gamers of all ages and interests.
Best Simulation Games for Console
Simulation games have found a home on consoles as well, with developers creating a range of engaging and immersive titles that allow players to simulate a variety of real-world activities. Here are some of the best simulation games available on consoles.
1. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 is an open-world racing game developed by Playground Games and published by Xbox Game Studios. The game is set in a fictionalized version of Mexico and features a vast and diverse landscape, including deserts, jungles, and canyons. The game allows players to explore the world at their own pace, participating in a variety of races and events, customizing their cars, and discovering hidden secrets.
The game also features a dynamic weather system, with changing conditions that can affect the gameplay. One of the unique features of Forza Horizon 5 is its inclusion of a new "EventLab" mode, which allows players to create their own custom races and challenges using a range of tools and assets.
2. Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo 7 is a racing simulation game developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. The game is the latest entry in the long-running Gran Turismo series and features a highly realistic physics engine, allowing for precise handling and simulation of real-world racing.
The game features a wide range of cars, tracks, and events, including classic cars and iconic racing circuits. One of the unique features of Gran Turismo 7 is its inclusion of a campaign mode, which allows players to progress through a series of challenges and events, earning rewards and unlocking new content. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against each other in races and events.
3. Flight Simulator
Flight Simulator is a flight simulation game developed by Asobo Studio and published by Xbox Game Studios. The game is available on Xbox Series X/S and Windows 10. The game features a highly detailed and realistic world map, with players able to fly over real-world locations in stunning detail. The game features a variety of aircraft to choose from, including commercial airliners and military jets, as well as a range of weather and time-of-day effects.
One of the unique features of Flight Simulator is its use of real-world data to create a truly authentic flight experience. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to fly with friends or compete against other pilots from around the world.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game developed and published by Nintendo. The game is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch console. The game takes place on a deserted island, which the player can customize and develop over time. The game features a range of activities, including fishing, bug catching, and crafting, as well as interacting with a cast of animal characters.
One of the unique features of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is its use of real-time clock and calendar, with events and activities happening in real-time based on the player's location and time zone. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to visit each other's islands and play together.
Also read: The Ultimate Guide To Animal Crossing New Horizons: Play On Pc Or Mac?
5. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a flight combat simulation game developed by Bandai Namco Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. The game is available on PlayStation 4. The game features a range of modern military aircraft, taking players on a series of missions and campaigns across a variety of locations. The game features a highly detailed and realistic flight physics engine, allowing players to simulate real-world dogfighting and aerial combat.
One of the unique features of Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is its inclusion of a story mode, which features a complex and engaging narrative set in a fictional world. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against each other in dogfights and team battles.
6. Project Cars 3
Project Cars 3 is a racing simulation game developed by Slightly Mad Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. The game is available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The game features a range of cars and tracks, including both real-world and fictional locations. The game features a highly realistic physics engine, allowing for precise handling and simulation of real-world racing.
One of the unique features of Project Cars 3 is its inclusion of a career mode, which allows players to progress through a series of challenges and events, earning rewards and unlocking new content. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against each other in races and events.
7. F1 2021
F1 2021 is a racing simulation game developed and published by Codemasters. The game is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One. The game features a range of Formula One cars and tracks, including both classic and modern circuits. The game features a highly realistic physics engine, allowing for precise handling and simulation of real-world racing.
One of the unique features of F1 2021 is its inclusion of a story mode, which features a complex and engaging narrative set in the world of Formula One. The game also features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against each other in races and events.
8. Farming Simulator 22
Farming Simulator 22 is a farming simulation game developed and published by Giants Software. The game is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One. The game features a range of farming activities, including crop cultivation, livestock management, and equipment maintenance.
The game features a highly detailed and realistic world map, with players able to farm in a variety of locations. One of the unique features of Farming Simulator 22 is its inclusion of a multiplayer mode, allowing players to work together to manage a farm.
9. Train Sim World 2
Train Sim World 2 is a train simulation game developed by Dovetail Games and published by Maximum Games. The game is available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The game features a range of trains and routes, including both passenger and freight operations.
The game features a highly detailed and realistic physics engine, allowing for precise handling and simulation of real-world train operations. One of the unique features of Train Sim World 2 is its inclusion of a "Journey" mode, which allows players to experience a full train journey from start to finish, with realistic driving and operating procedures.
10. Jurassic World Evolution
Jurassic World Evolution is a theme park simulation game developed and published by Frontier Developments. The game is available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The game allows players to manage and operate their own Jurassic World theme park, featuring a range of dinosaurs and attractions. The game features a highly detailed and realistic 3D world, with players able to design and customize their park to their liking.
One of the unique features of Jurassic World Evolution is its inclusion of a campaign mode, which features a complex and engaging narrative set in the world of Jurassic Park. The game also features a sandbox mode, allowing players to create their own park without any restrictions.
In conclusion
Simulation games are a fantastic way to immerse oneself in a range of activities and experiences, from racing and flying to farming and managing theme parks. Across a variety of platforms, developers have created a range of simulation games that showcase both the depth and breadth of the genre.
While there are many excellent simulation games available across consoles and PC, the ten games listed in this article stand out as some of the best. From the highly realistic racing of Gran Turismo 7 to the charming island life of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, each game provides a unique and engaging experience that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre.
Whether you're looking to test your skills as a pilot, compete in high-speed races, or create and manage your own world, there is a simulation game out there for you. So why not dive in and experience the thrill of simulation gaming for yourself?