The ship simulation genre is ironically as shallow as a puddle when it comes to the number of games available to enthusiasts. It’s no doubt a small niche, but there are a few titles worth your time. We’ve collated a list of the best ship simulator games you should be playing in 2024!
5. eSail Sailing Simulator
Credit: eSail Ltd.
eSail Sailing Simulator is a great way for enthusiasts to get an authentic yacht experience. The game boasts several sailing, mooring, and anchoring modes, as well as challenges and races for players to partake in. It’s touted as extremely technically accurate by the community, which is why it’s one of the best ship simulator games you need to be playing in 2024 (if you’re a fan of the genre, of course).
4. Ships At Sea
Credit: Misc Games
In Ships At Sea, you won’t get to sail the open seas. Instead, it’s quality over quantity here, with players setting sail across Norway’s islands. There, players can take part in single and multi-player activities, with tasks including service, cargo transport, and commercial fishing. There’s a mixed bag of activities here, making it one of the best ship simulator games for anyone looking for a varied experience. The game remains in Early Access, and it’ll only get better from here.
3. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
Credit: Ubisoft
We know, we know. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag isn’t technically a ship simulator game. However, its mechanics are still the best in class when it comes to virtual sailing. There’s just a hint of naval combat and piracy added into the mix, as well. The only thing letting it down is the lack of hardcore elements for fans of the genre, but we think it does enough to qualify as one of the best ship simulator games, and just one of the most fun simulator games in general.
2. Sea of Thieves
Credit: Rare
Like the previous title, we’re cheating a little with Sea of Thieves. It’s a whole lot more than just ship simulation, but that area of the game is actually better than many hardcore simulators in the genre. You could absolutely spend your time sailing around the world of Sea of Thieves, just breathing in the incredible atmosphere. It takes its place among the best ship simulator games, but it’s also solid for gamers looking for a great pirate title.
1. NAUTIS Home
Credit: VSTEP Simulation
This is real maritime simulation. NAUTIS Home is so in-depth, it almost doesn’t even qualify as a game anymore. It features realistic hydrodynamics, with training progress that keeps up with how you’re learning is coming along. There are detailed courses that aim to train players on how to improve specific maritime skills, all of which we’re around 10% convinced could teach you how to pilot an actual ship. Not only is NAUTIS Home one of the best ship simulator games on the market right now, but it’s also among the best simulation games ever made too for its sheer attention to detail.