Simulation games have always been my go-to when I want to play something that will help me relax and bring tons of fun and enjoyment. Throughout the years, some of them have become my favorite ones, and I keep playing them till now. But enough with that, let’s get to the point already, and let me introduce you to my favorite simulation games of all time.
1. Cities: Skylines
If you enjoy creative gameplay and urban planning, Cities: Skylines is one of the best city-builders out there. If you haven’t played it yet, TRUST ME, just get the game and let it do its magic. I promise you are going to love it!
Note
HINT: Mods or DLCs will help you get the most out of the game. So, make sure to check those as well and transform the game however you like it.
In Cities: Skylines, you can create the city of your dreams, become the mayor, and see your hard work pay back when you get the most amazing feedback from your citizens and tourists too!
I think it would be very helpful to give you a pros and cons list of the game so you can have a better point of view:
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| The game offers detailed, deep city-building mechanics, such as control over zoning, roads, traffic, utilities, and services | It can be overwhelming for beginners, especially when managing traffic and budgets |
| Mod support | It can be overwhelming for beginners, especially when managing traffic and budgets |
| Realistic simulation | |
| Expansions |
2. Planet Coaster
Planet Coaster is ideal for creative players who love building amusement parks. As a theme park sandbox, it’s one of the best available.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Visuals and atmosphere | The building system can be complex and unintuitive at first |
| Workshop support | park management and economy are relatively easy |
| Sandbox mode | Park management and economy are relatively easy |
| Freedom of creativity |
3. Two Point Hospital
Two Point Hospital is a hospital management simulation game with tons of humor, and you will definitely have an amazing time playing it.
It is perfect for fans of lighthearted strategy games. However, it’s not hyper-realistic, but it is 100% highly entertaining. If you give it a try, you will get what I mean.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Clean, cartoonish graphics with smooth animation | Micromanagement fatigue |
| DLC support | Don’t expect deep medical simulation. This is more about management and humor |
| Engaging gameplay loop | |
| Modular challenges |
4. Euro Truck Simulator 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a must-play if you enjoy chill, goal-driven simulation games with real-world geography. It is deeply satisfying and very, very addictive.
It is probably my top 1 when it comes to driving simulation games since I love driving and yes, I know, it is not the same as in real life, but still. It always succeeds in making me feel SO relaxed, I can’t even explain it!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Surprisingly relaxing | Dated visuals |
| Realistic driving physics | Slow-paced |
| Mod and DLC support |
5. Tropico 5
Tropico 5 is a fun blend of city-building and light political strategy. It is not the most in-depth simulation out there, but the humor and charming visuals make it stand out. Mid-core strategy fans will love it!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Era system | Micromanagement can feel clunky |
| Multiplayer mode | Repetitive missions |
| Dynasty feature |
6. The Sims 4
The Sims 4 is a vibrant, creative sandbox great for storytelling and design. Keep in mind that expansions and mods will make it shine since the base game alone can feel empty. It is ideal for casual players and life simulation fans.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Powerful Create-a-Sim and Build Mode | Base game lacks key features |
| Tons of expansion content | Heavy monetization on DLCs, etc |
| Active modding community |
7. House Flipper
House Flipper is a chill, relaxing, low-stress simulation that’s perfect for fans of home design, renovation games. It is a first-person renovation simulator where you buy, fix, decorate, and sell homes for profit!
It is a great game for winding down and relaxing whilst being creative at the same time.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Creative freedom | Repetitive tasks |
| Simple but addictive | Dated visuals |
| DLCs |
Have you played any of the simulation games mentioned above? Which one is your favorite and why? Please let me know by submitting your comment in the comments section below.
