Many consider the simulation game genre to be exclusively for hardcore gamers. There are a lot of misconceptions about the genre in this regard. That’s why we’re answering the question once and for all: what is a simulation game?
What is a simulation game?
Simulation games are an escape from real life. Simply put, they simulate things that we’ve always wanted to try, but have been unable to for one reason or another. You want to fly into space? There are space simulators like Elite Dangerous for that. Want to truck across Europe and watch the days pass by? Euro Truck Simulator 2 has you covered. There’s something to satisfy every niche, no matter how unique, and that’s what we love about simulation games.
Importantly, simulation games come in various levels of depth for casual and hardcore players alike. For example, Farming Simulator 22 is arguably the most in-depth farming sim on the market. It holds nothing back, and gives you the real experience of working on a farm. Then, there’s something like Stardew Valley. Farming is one part of the simulation here, but its stripped-back mechanics allow casual players to have fun, too. There’s no better or worse option with this – it’s entirely personal preference for each player.
Are simulation games worth the time?
Credit: SCS Software
If you find the right title, you can sink hundreds of hours into a simulation game. We obviously wouldn’t recommend doing this for a game you have no interest in, but if you love what a particular sim has to offer, there’s no reason it can’t prove to be worth your time.
Some simulation games are specialists at sucking your time away. We’re talking games like Football Manager or Euro Truck Simulator. You boot them up at 11pm, and before you know it it’s daylight outside. Are these games worth your time? If you love them, sure!
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