summation
- Some simulation games strive for extreme accuracy, like Football Manager 2024's realistic player statistics.
- SnowRunner challenges players with off-road terrain decisions that impact the driving experience.
- Kerbal Space Program has a comical presentation but features highly detailed physics simulations.
Some simulation games focus on fun and simple gameplay. Others only partially simulate the scenario. However, there are some games that take simulation to the extreme in order for the game to represent real life as accurately as possible.

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8 simulation games with the best story modes
These simulation games have compelling stories that make players more interested in what they have to offer.
For example, war and combat simulations often aim for realism in their gameplay. Other simulation games simulate scientific scenarios such as physics. And still others aim to allow players to control accurately simulated vehicles or aircraft. What all the best simulation games have in common is that they recreate real-life situations in deep detail.
Realistic player statistics
- released
- November 6, 2024
- Open Criticism Evaluation
- strong
Football Manager 2024 This latest version has been a huge success. football manager franchise. This game has always attracted attention because it presents every aspect of football team management in detail. The goal is for team managers to maintain their jobs over multiple seasons by achieving victories.
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26 Best Cooperative Simulation Games, Ranked
Simulation games tend to mimic real-life experiences, but they can be fun to play, especially those with co-op modes.
Players must scout new players, train current players, select players to make up their team, and negotiate contracts among many other features. The depth of the simulation and the game's huge database of players and teams make it one of the most accurate simulations.
7 Snow Runner
offroad driving simulator
Snow Runner
- released
- April 28, 2020
- Open Criticism Evaluation
- strong
Snow Runner It's an off-road driving simulation game with quite a twist. The game presents a variety of landscapes that players must learn to traverse safely. This includes snow areas, unpaved roads, flooded areas of the map, and other hazardous terrain.
Players must choose the right vehicle for their journey and plan the right route. Some challenges include moving sensitive cargo and other challenges. Well-thought-out off-road driving mechanics and the severe impact the terrain has on the player make this a great simulation game.
6 Euro Truck Simulator 2
Trucking across Europe
- released
- October 18, 2012
- developer
- SCS Software
The second driving simulation game on this list is: Euro Truck Simulator 2. The game has a cult following of sorts, allowing players to feel like a long-distance truck driver on European highways.
The road network is detailed, with full simulation of traffic patterns affected by road conditions such as weather. Players must manage and maintain their vehicles and meet delivery schedules on time. The game does an excellent job of simulating the logistics challenges behind the wheel of a truck.
5 Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Benchmark release
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S
- Release date: 2020 (PC) 2021 (Xbox)
- Developer: Asobo Studio
- Genre: Flight simulator
Released in 2020 Microsoft Flight Simulator We've seen a truly groundbreaking update to this franchise. At the time of release, it was the most accurate and detailed representation of aviation. Based on real-world map data, players can freely fly anywhere in the world.
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The best 2D simulation game
Simulation meets 2D in our latest list.
The game is enjoyable for casual players, but is comprehensive enough to satisfy even experienced pilots. The game includes a variety of aircraft simulations, from light aircraft to huge commercial jets. The flight dynamics are also completely accurate.
4 kerbal space program
Amazing physics simulation
- released
- April 27, 2015
- Open Criticism Evaluation
- strong
As the simulation game progresses, kerbal space program It's a bit strange. While most simulation games opt for detailed and accurate graphics, this game does things differently. Kernels are cute, cartoony objects that are sometimes a bit comical.
But behind this comical display lies an incredibly detailed physics simulation. Players must help the Kerbels get into space, which includes designing a rocket that can escape the gravity well. This is an enormous challenge that humanity has spent tens of billions of dollars to accomplish in the real world. Getting Kerbels back home with realistic orbital mechanics is a challenge in itself.
3 Silent Hunter 5: Battle of the Atlantic
Detailed submarine simulation
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Released: 2010
- Developer: Ubisoft Bucharest
- Genre: Simulator
Silent Hunter 5 The game puts players in control of a submarine during World War II. This is a sub-pilot simulator rather than a submarine captain simulation. For example, players must manage their crew while ensuring good morale.
However, in combat scenarios, players are responsible for navigating and planning routes, taking steps to avoid enemy detection, and using torpedoes to take offensive actions against mission objectives. Overall, this is a great, overall correct naval simulation game.
2 Factorio
Logistics and Manufacturing Simulation
simulation
real-time strategy
- released
- August 14, 2020
- developer
- Wube Software
- Open Criticism Evaluation
- strong
The only 2D simulation games on this list are: Factorio. However, despite its limited graphics, its depth and complexity puts it at the top of this list. In this game, players are responsible for setting up complex production chains to produce goods.
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Best factory simulation game on Steam
For those looking for a rewarding simulation experience, Factory Sim is a beloved niche within the genre.
As part of this simulation, players must overcome engineering challenges and ensure that the production chain is efficient and does not run out of necessary resources. Simulated industrial processes for players who enjoy the challenge of solving intelligent puzzles Factorio It will keep you busy for hours.
1 Arma 3
Intense battlefield simulation
- released
- September 12, 2013
Arma 3 is a first-person military battlefield simulation game that is as realistic as possible. The game is a multiplayer team-based game where opposing teams compete to complete map objectives.
Large-scale combat involves players using realistically simulated weapons and vehicles and requires players to have an understanding of modern battlefield tactics. Arma 3 It is a simulation that is accurate enough to be used in actual military training. For players who want the ultimate realistic battlefield experience, Arma 3 It's a game to go.
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Best free simulation games on Steam
Simulation games range from comfortable life simulations to high-stakes war games. Fortunately, Steam's free offerings span all genres.