Many players love the simulation genre for how it turns what should be menial tasks into something oddly riveting. The best simulation games are the ones that let players uncover the system's complexities and figure out the best way to optimize the time they spend in the game.
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However, not all simulation games need to be so complex. In fact, the best titles in the genre attract a massive player base because of the inherent simplicity of their mechanics, letting players grasp the inner machinations of these games in no time as they put their knowledge to the test.
Goat Simulator 3
More About Wreaking Havoc Than Trying To Simulate Anything In A Complex Manner
Goat Simulator 3
- Released
- November 17, 2022
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Genre(s)
- Simulation, Adventure
Goat Simulator 3 is the meme game to end all meme games. Players control a goat hell-bent on wreaking havoc in a sandbox full of many ridiculous secrets to find.
The game's simulation of a goat's movement and abilities is exaggerated for comedic effect. There's nothing remotely complex about this title, with players being encouraged to just go ballistic, complete as many unique stunts as they can, and figure out how to uncover the game's wild secrets.
Job Simulator
A Humorous VR Game That Revels In Its Simplicity
Job Simulator
- Released
- April 5, 2016
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- E10+ For Everyone 10+ // Crude Humor
- Genre(s)
- Simulation, Virtual Reality
VR gaming has opened the floodgates, with Job Simulator offering up a short yet quirky experience about players working in capitalist hell. Players can interact with objects on their desk and complete simple challenges as and when their employer tells them.
It's a unique experience that isn't complicated in the slightest and makes for a fun showcase of what a person's virtual reality headset can accomplish. Job Simulator may not be all that feature-rich compared to other VR games, but players looking for a simple simulation game that's deeply immersive will love this odd gem.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
The Bartending Simulation Is Just An Excuse For Players To Engage In Riveting Conversation
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
- Released
- August 16, 2014
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Genre(s)
- Visual Novel
Simulating a bartender's actions by whipping up a customer's drink is just an excuse for players to get immersed in the rich and detailed world of VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action. The writing and art style are what make this game click with players.
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In many ways, VA-11 Hall-A is essentially a glorified visual novel with elements of simulation gameplay. They're never too complicated and just serve as a way to immerse players as they talk to several unique characters and uncover their stories.
Yes, Your Grace
Combines Role-Playing, Storytelling, Kingdom Management, And Simulation Gameplay Without Getting Too Complex
Yes, Your Grace
- Released
- March 6, 2020
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen // Drug Reference, Fantasy Violence, Sexual Content
- Genre(s)
- RPG, Life Simulation, Management
Yes, Your Grace is a combination of multiple genres, with the game being no stranger to shades of the simulation genre. King Eryk must ensure that his kingdom isn't plagued with unhappiness, especially when players need to bolster their army to deal with invading forces.
The simulation gameplay isn't too deep, with players having to make decisions that ensure an inflow of coin and supplies while keeping contentment as high as possible. This is done by providing an audience to aggrieved subjects and deciding to approach their problems.
The Sims 4
For An Epic Life Simulation Title, This Game Is Way Easier To Get Into Than Fans Would Expect
The Sims 4
- Released
- September 2, 2014
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T for Teen: Crude Humor, Sexual Themes, Violence
- Genre(s)
- Simulation
The Sims 4 is a legendary entry in one of the most popular simulation franchises of all time. Fans may not be happy with the direction this franchise is taking, but they still love this title for how approachable it is.
Most beginners should check out the base game first to get a handle on the mechanics before eventually shelling out a ton of money for the expansions if the game resonates with them. The sheer amount of money required to unlock the full Sims 4 experience is ridiculously expensive, so players should pick and choose the expansions that they like, since that won't complicate the gameplay too much.
Spiritfarer
Prioritizes Coziness And Emotional Moments Over Simulation Complexity
Spiritfarer
- Released
- August 18, 2020
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen due to Language, Use of Tobacco, Violent References
- Genre(s)
- Platformer, Indie Games, Simulation
Spiritfarer is one of the most relaxing simulation games fans can enjoy. Players control Stella on an emotional adventure aboard a boat, where they must fulfill the needs of these spirits before eventually helping them move on.
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Not only is the gameplay nowhere near challenging, but Spiritfarer's emotional storytelling ensures that fans will fall in love with the act of ferrying spirits to the afterlife in a poignant, beautiful simulation game that deserves all the praise it gets.
Not For Broadcast
Managing The Broadcast Of A News Station Is Riveting Without Becoming Too Complicated
Not For Broadcast
- Released
- December 11, 2019
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- M For Mature: Violence, Blood, Sexual Themes, Nudity, Strong Language, Crude Humor
- Genre(s)
- Indie, Adventure, Simulation
At a glance, trying to manage a broadcast for a network station and ensuring that the live feed isn't too bungled may seem like a challenge. However, Not for Broadcast ensures that simulation these actions isn't too challenging as players get embroiled in a political narrative.
Players can organically make decisions, either letting Advance or Disrupt take over the polls and bolster their image in front of the media. The humorous elements, coupled with a unique gameplay loop, ensure that players will love how this unique FMV game plays out.
RollerCoaster Tycoon
Enraptured An Entire Generation With Its Simple Yet Engaging Business Simulation
RollerCoaster Tycoon
- Released
- March 31, 1999
- ESRB
- e
- Developer(s)
- Chris Sawyer Productions
- Genre(s)
- Simulation, Management
RollerCoaster Tycoon is a legendary business simulation game that needs no introduction. The game's premise is simple — players manage various theme parks that must turn over a profit as players try to increase the inflow of guests and figure out how to turn an amusement park's reputation around.
The answer to this is as simple as players expect. Players must create incredible roller coasters and other theme park attractions, improving their reputation as they attain success across various stages.
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