Best Simulation Games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated simulation games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free simulation games are available at the bottom of the page.
Filters & Lists
Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition
Spanning the most turbulent era in Western history, your quest for territory and power takes you through Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and even onto the shores of the New World.
Fleet Command
International waterways become theaters of war when the world's most formidable maritime powers exchange their fatal blows. With entire fleets at your command, you must strategically deploy vessels from every class - frigate to aircraft to nuclear submarine - to maintain the precarious balance of naval power and gain position for the...
Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete
Sid Meier's Civilization III: Complete, the latest offering in the Sid Meier's Civilization III franchise, provides gaming fans with Sid Meier's Civilization III, the highly-addictive journey of discovery.
Sid Meier's Civilization® IV
With over 6 million units sold and unprecedented critical acclaim from fans and press around the world, Sid Meier's Civilization is recognized as one of the greatest PC game franchises of all-time. Now, Sid Meier and Firaxis Games will take this incredibly fun and addictive game to new heights by adding new ways to play and win, new...
Call of Duty® 2
Call of Duty® 2 redefines the cinematic intensity and chaos of battle as seen through the eyes of ordinary soldiers fighting together in epic WWII conflicts. The sequel to 2003's Call of Duty, winner of over 80 Game of the Year awards, Call of Duty 2 offers more immense, more intense, more realistic battles than ever before, thanks to...
Insaniquarium Deluxe
The craziest aquarium game ever! Tend to your fish, keep them happy and they'll reward you with coins and jewels. Buy tank upgrades or egg parts which hatch different in-tank pets. These pets can help you feed your fish, collect coins, or even protect against the aliens that will invade your tank.
Xpand Rally
Please note as of October 2024, the online features for this game will no longer be supported.Xpand Rally is a breathtaking game that gives you the true to life experience of driving powerful rally cars amidst photorealistic sceneries. Realistic weather effects, rolling hills, and animated scenery all add to game's visual perfection.
Uplink
Uplink lets you play as a freelance hacker tackling risky contracts for corporations. Break into systems, steal data, sabotage rivals, and upgrade your gear. Support factions or go rogue in this immersive, strategy-driven hacking simulation game where your choices shape the outcome.
X3: Reunion
X3: Reunion continues the epic space saga, blending deep space trading and intense real-time combat. Explore a vast universe, establish your empire, and shape the new frontier. With enhanced graphics and intricate economies, it's a journey of strategy, simulation, and interstellar intrigue.
X2: The Threat
X²: The Threat is of a new generation of space simulator games, you play the role of Julian Gardna who continues the story set by X: Beyond The Frontier. The updated graphics engine gives the universe a fresher feel with newly designed ships and stations adding to the complexity of the universe.
The Ship: Murder Party
The Ship is a murder mystery multiplayer.
Earth 2160
After the destruction of the EARTH in 2150, the leaders of the Eurasian Dynasty escaped on board an evacuation fleet. Now they are fighting for the survival of the human species. Their base is one large building comprising of smaller variable parts.
Red Orchestra: Ostfront 41-45
Fight in the theatre of war that changed the world forever. Battle alongside your compatriots on some of the most inhospitable environments of the Eastern Front in Red Orchestra: Ostfront 41-45. Red Orchestra places you in the most realistic WWII first-person multi-player combat to date on the PC, allowing the player to fight through...
Dangerous Waters
S.C.S. - Dangerous Waters allows you total control over multiple air, surface, and submarine platforms in a modern-day naval environment. Take direct control of individual crew stations and also plan and execute combined arms naval strategies from a top-down 'Commanders Eye' perspective.
Counter-Strike: Source
Counter-Strike: Source blends Counter-Strike's award-winning teamplay action with the advanced technology of Source™ technology.
Arma 2
Building on 10 years of constant engine development, ARMA II boasts the most realistic combat environment in the world. It models real world ballistics & round deflection, materials penetration, features a realtime day/night cycle and dynamic wind, weather and environmental effects.
Stronghold 2: Steam Edition
Tax, torture or treat your peasants! Rehabilitate criminals or sentence them to death? Decide as you enjoy jousting over a lavish banquet, all while under siege from the warmongering Lord Barclay.
Sniper Elite V2
In the dark days of the end of World War Two amidst the ruins of Berlin, one bullet can change history…
Simulation games offer players the chance to experience real-life scenarios in a virtual environment. Whether you want to build a thriving city, manage a farm, or pilot a plane, simulation games provide immersive experiences that can be both entertaining and educational. Here are some popular types of simulation games you can explore.
Life Simulation
Games that let you create and manage characters and their lives, like The Sims™ 4.
Vehicle Simulation
Experience driving, flying, or sailing in realistic environments, such as Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020) 40th Anniversary Edition.
City-Building
Design and manage your own city, balancing resources and the needs of your citizens, like in Cities: Skylines.
Farming Simulation
Grow crops, raise animals, and manage your farm in games like Farming Simulator 25.
Each game offers unique gameplay mechanics and challenges, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
How to Find More Simulation Games
If you’re eager to explore even more simulation games, our site makes it easy! Use the category filters to narrow down your search. You can look for tags like "multiplayer" for games to play with friends or "realistic" for those that focus on authentic experiences. This way, you can quickly find games that match your interests.
Tips for Choosing the Right Simulation Game
Consider your interests
Think about what aspects of simulation you enjoy most. Do you prefer building and management, or are you more into exploration and adventure?
Look for games with strong community support
Games that have active communities often provide additional content, mods, and tips that can enhance your experience.
Check for user reviews
Reading reviews can give you insight into the game’s quality, gameplay experience, and any potential issues.
What are the best simulation games for beginners?
If you’re new to simulation games, consider starting with Stardew Valley or Two Point Hospital. Both are user-friendly and offer tutorials to help you get started.
What makes a simulation game great?
A great simulation game typically features engaging mechanics, a well-designed user interface, and a balance between challenge and fun. Realism and depth can also enhance the overall experience.
With a wide variety of options available, you’re sure to find a game that captivates you and provides hours of entertainment. Don’t forget to check back regularly for updates, as new games are released and ratings change. Happy gaming, and enjoy building, managing, and exploring in your virtual worlds!
Most played simulation games on Steam
Take a look at the top simulation games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of June 15th 2025.
1. Football Manager 2024
Build a world-class team ready to dominate your rivals in football’s most prestigious competitions. Progress never stops when you’re pursuing footballing greatness. Football Manager 2024 is a simulation, sports and management game developed by Sports Interactive and published by SEGA. Released on November 06th 2023 has received 23,048 reviews of which 20,927 were positive and 2,121 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played simulation game, thanks to its 44,902 peak concurrent players over the last day.
8.9
20,927
2,121
44,902
players
2. War Thunder
War Thunder is the most comprehensive free-to-play, cross-platform, MMO military game dedicated to aviation, armoured vehicles, and naval craft, from the early 20th century to the most advanced modern combat units. Join now and take part in major battles on land, in the air, and at sea. War Thunder is a free to play, simulation and vehicular combat game developed by Gaijin Entertainment and published by Gaijin Network Ltd. Released on August 15th 2013 has received 757,086 reviews of which 484,469 were positive and 272,617 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. While seeing 42,704 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among simulation games based on player count.
6.4
484,469
272,617
42,704
players
3. Schedule I
From small-time dope pusher to kingpin - manufacture and distribute a range of drugs throughout the grungy city of Hyland Point. Expand your empire with properties, businesses, employees and more. Schedule I is a simulation, co-op and crime game developed and published by TVGS. Released on March 24th 2025 has received 204,041 reviews of which 200,803 were positive and 3,238 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. While seeing 22,012 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among simulation games based on player count.
9.7
200,803
3,238
22,012
players
4. Euro Truck Simulator 2
Travel across Europe as king of the road, a trucker who delivers important cargo across impressive distances! With dozens of cities to explore, your endurance, skill and speed will all be pushed to their limits. Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a driving, transportation and simulation game developed and published by SCS Software. Released on October 12th 2012 has received 867,404 reviews of which 844,480 were positive and 22,924 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 18,068 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played simulation games.
9.7
844,480
22,924
18,068
players
5. BeamNG.drive
A dynamic soft-body physics vehicle simulator capable of doing just about anything. BeamNG.drive is a simulation, driving and physics game developed and published by BeamNG. Released on May 29th 2015 has received 322,278 reviews of which 313,873 were positive and 8,405 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 16,409 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played simulation games.
9.6
313,873
8,405
16,409
players
6. Crusader Kings III
Love, fight, scheme, and claim greatness. Determine your noble house’s legacy in the sprawling grand strategy of Crusader Kings III. Death is only the beginning as you guide your dynasty’s bloodline in the rich and larger-than-life simulation of the Middle Ages. Crusader Kings III is a strategy, medieval and grand strategy game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on September 01st 2020 has received 126,909 reviews of which 114,259 were positive and 12,650 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 15,230 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.9
114,259
12,650
15,230
players
7. Farming Simulator 25
Farming Simulator 25 invites you to join the rewarding farm life, single-handedly or cooperatively in multiplayer. This Farm is Your Farm! Farming Simulator 25 is a simulation, farming sim and realistic game developed and published by Giants Software. Released on November 12th 2024 has received 33,575 reviews of which 28,079 were positive and 5,496 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 14,888 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.2
28,079
5,496
14,888
players
8. Europa Universalis IV
Rule your land and dominate the world with unparalleled freedom, depth and historical accuracy. Write a new history of the world and build an empire for the ages. Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy, strategy and historical game developed by Paradox Development Studio and Paradox Tinto and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on August 13th 2013 has received 134,436 reviews of which 116,432 were positive and 18,004 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 14,073 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.6
116,432
18,004
14,073
players
9. Revolution Idle
Join an experience where each revolution takes you further into the unknown! Revolution Idle challenges you to multiply your accumulators to reach unimaginable heights. Will you manage to reach infinity? Revolution Idle is a casual, simulation and idler game developed by Oni Gaming and Nu Games and published by Oni Gaming. Released on May 01st 2025 has received 4,820 reviews of which 4,089 were positive and 731 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 13,144 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.2
4,089
731
13,144
players
10. Arma Reforger
Experience authentic Cold War combat and join the struggle for the sprawling, mid-Atlantic island of Everon and its smaller, offshore territory, Arland – or take on the role of Game Master and create your very own scenarios for others to enjoy. Arma Reforger is a military, simulation and action game developed and published by Bohemia Interactive. Released on November 16th 2023 has received 30,623 reviews of which 23,326 were positive and 7,297 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. With 12,681 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played simulation games.
7.5
23,326
7,297
12,681
players
Best deals on simulation games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of simulation games available on Steam right now, updated on June 15th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted simulation games.
1. Hiveswap Friendsim
You’ve crash landed on a dangerous alien planet with no food, medicine, or prospects, but you do know one thing—you are absolutely desperate for friendship. Hiveswap Friendsim is a visual novel, indie and simulation game developed by What Pumpkin Games and Inc. and published by Fellow Traveller. Released on April 13th 2018 has received 1,355 reviews of which 1,253 were positive and 102 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Featuring a massive 99% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for simulation category.
8.8
1,253
102
-99%
12.79€
0.16€
2. EarthX
EarthX is a rocket company management game. Go from launching small rockets on Earth to eventually building a colony on Mars. Create your own Internet constellation, develop new technologies, supply the International Space Station and terraform Mars! EarthX is a simulation, indie and strategy game developed by Denis and Ry and published by Mesote Games. Released on July 12th 2023 has received 875 reviews of which 769 were positive and 106 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in simulation games.
8.3
769
106
-99%
19.99€
0.29€
3. Size Matters
You play as a scientist who is shrinking every second in a race against time! Find all the ingredients and formulas scattered around the laboratory, which are necessary for producing the life-saving antidote. But beware, your time is very precious. Size Matters is a simulation, casual and science game developed by Mazen Games and published by GrabTheGames. Released on March 12th 2021 has received 473 reviews of which 412 were positive and 61 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in simulation games.
8.1
412
61
-99%
9.75€
0.19€
4. Old World
Old World is a revolutionary new historical strategy game where you lead your dynasty over generations of rule against rival kings and queens. Wage massive wars, manage your court, and build a dynasty — or watch your empire crumble to dust. What legacy will you leave behind? Old World is a strategy, simulation and 4x game developed by Mohawk Games and published by Hooded Horse. Released on May 18th 2022 has received 4,673 reviews of which 3,841 were positive and 832 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for simulation games.
8.0
3,841
832
-99%
39.99€
0.48€
5. NASCAR Heat 4
NASCAR Heat 4 is the official video game of NASCAR. Looking and sounding better than ever with updated user interface, graphics and engine audio, race across 38 tracks in all three NASCAR National Series plus the fan-favorite Xtreme Dirt Tour. NASCAR Heat 4 is a racing, automobile sim and simulation game developed by Monster Games and published by 704 Games Company. Released on September 13th 2019 has received 1,722 reviews of which 1,405 were positive and 317 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.8
1,405
317
-99%
103.00€
1.03€
6. Viscera Cleanup Detail: Shadow Warrior
After the battle is over, someone has to cleanup the mess! Introducing Viscera Cleanup Detail: Shadow Warrior from RuneStorm, a unique crossover mini-game that combines the worlds of Viscera Cleanup Detail and Shadow Warrior. Viscera Cleanup Detail: Shadow Warrior is a simulation, gore and first-person game developed by RuneStorm and published by Devolver Digital. Released on October 11th 2013 has received 4,434 reviews of which 3,572 were positive and 862 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.8
3,572
862
-99%
305.00€
3.05€
7. Unity of Command II
Unity of Command II is the sequel to one of the most critically acclaimed strategy games of all time; a game critics called 'the perfect gateway' into computer war games. Unity of Command II is a strategy, world war ii and simulation game developed by 2x2 Games and Croteam and published by 2x2 Games. Released on November 12th 2019 has received 1,896 reviews of which 1,529 were positive and 367 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.8
1,529
367
-99%
28.99€
0.55€
8. Destroyer: The U-Boat Hunter
Destroyer: The U-Boat Hunter brings you an authentic and historically accurate destroyer simulation along with gripping anti-submarine warfare set in the turmoils of the Atlantic Ocean during World War II. Destroyer: The U-Boat Hunter is a simulation, naval combat and world war ii game developed by Iron Wolf Studio S.A. and published by Daedalic Entertainment. Released on December 06th 2023 has received 1,038 reviews of which 783 were positive and 255 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.2
783
255
-99%
29.99€
0.49€
9. Railroad Corporation
Relive the pioneering spirit of the Golden Age of Steam by establishing your own railroad empire across 19th century North America. Bring settlements together, produce and trade goods and develop new technologies to stay ahead of the competition. Want more? RAILROAD CORPORATION 2 Out Now! Railroad Corporation is a strategy, trains and management game developed by Corbie Games and published by Iceberg Interactive. Released on November 18th 2019 has received 1,387 reviews of which 1,028 were positive and 359 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.1
1,028
359
-99%
35.10€
0.44€
10. Starpoint Gemini Warlords
Strategy from the front lines! Starpoint Gemini Warlords combines 3rd person capital spaceship combat with 4X strategy and RPG gameplay elements. Build mighty war fleets and send them into battle or lead them into combat yourself. Become the Warlord and conquer the Gemini system! Starpoint Gemini Warlords is a space, rpg and open world game developed and published by Little Green Men Games. Released on May 23rd 2017 has received 3,532 reviews of which 2,593 were positive and 939 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.1
2,593
939
-99%
31.99€
0.47€
Free simulation games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play simulation games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on June 15th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play simulation games.
1. War Thunder
War Thunder is the most comprehensive free-to-play, cross-platform, MMO military game dedicated to aviation, armoured vehicles, and naval craft, from the early 20th century to the most advanced modern combat units. Join now and take part in major battles on land, in the air, and at sea. War Thunder is a free to play, simulation and vehicular combat game developed by Gaijin Entertainment and published by Gaijin Network Ltd. Released on August 15th 2013 has received 757,086 reviews of which 484,469 were positive and 272,617 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. With 42,704 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free simulation games on Steam.
6.4
484,469
272,617
42,704
players
2. Revolution Idle
Join an experience where each revolution takes you further into the unknown! Revolution Idle challenges you to multiply your accumulators to reach unimaginable heights. Will you manage to reach infinity? Revolution Idle is a casual, simulation and idler game developed by Oni Gaming and Nu Games and published by Oni Gaming. Released on May 01st 2025 has received 4,820 reviews of which 4,089 were positive and 731 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 13,144, this simulation game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free simulation games on Steam.
8.2
4,089
731
13,144
players
3. Supermarket Together
The multiplayer supermarket has arrived to your neighbourhood for free! Stock your shop space, unlock perks and franchises, hire employees or chase those pesky shoplifters. The more players, the more action! Supermarket Together is a simulation, online co-op and multiplayer game developed and published by DeadDevsTellNoLies. Released on August 09th 2024 has received 67,435 reviews of which 63,994 were positive and 3,441 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 5,558, this simulation game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free simulation games on Steam.
9.3
63,994
3,441
5,558
players
4. Unnamed Space Idle
Destroy endless waves of alien ships that have all but wiped out humanity in this long form, unfolding, sci-fi idle game. Customize your ship with different weapons and defenses to defeat specific enemy types and utilize a ton of different systems to increase your overall power. Unnamed Space Idle is a idler, casual and free to play game developed by Sylv and published by Jdog Corp. Released on July 27th 2023 has received 2,894 reviews of which 2,691 were positive and 203 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 3,938 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.9
2,691
203
3,938
players
5. Aimlabs
Aimlabs is the aim trainer of choice for over 40 Million players, from beginners to esports pros. Our unique aim analysis optimizes your gameplay, targets your weaknesses & builds key skills for any FPS game! Time to warm up with our unlimited scenarios & rank up in-game! Aimlabs is a free to play, fps and shooter game developed and published by Statespace. Released on June 16th 2023 has received 84,332 reviews of which 79,517 were positive and 4,815 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 3,474 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
9.3
79,517
4,815
3,474
players
6. Fishing Planet
Fishing Planet® is a free-to-play and highly realistic first-person online multiplayer fishing simulator. Developed by avid fishing enthusiasts to bring you the full thrill of actual angling on your PC. Fishing Planet is a fishing, free to play and multiplayer game developed and published by Fishing Planet LLC. Released on August 28th 2017 has received 65,699 reviews of which 57,004 were positive and 8,695 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 2,932 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.6
57,004
8,695
2,932
players
7. Cell to Singularity - Evolution Never Ends
The epic story of evolution, technology, humanity, and dinosaurs is yours to tap. Cell to Singularity - Evolution Never Ends is a clicker, free to play and simulation game developed and published by Computer Lunch. Released on November 03rd 2021 has received 23,690 reviews of which 21,284 were positive and 2,406 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 2,662 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.8
21,284
2,406
2,662
players
8. Farmer Against Potatoes Idle
Pick up your sword and fight off waves of Potatoes by upgrading your stats constantly, use Equipment, choose between different Classes, put your many Talents to good use, and so much more designed to keep you entertained for a long time. Farmer Against Potatoes Idle is a idler, casual and clicker game developed and published by Oni Gaming. Released on September 05th 2024 has received 7,184 reviews of which 6,844 were positive and 340 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 1,821 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #8 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
9.2
6,844
340
1,821
players
9. Idling to Rule the Gods
Idling to Rule the Gods is a free to play Idle-Game with a lot of content and some Minigames. Depending on your play-style, you can play it fast or slow. Either way it can be fun for hundreds of hours! Idling to Rule the Gods is a free to play, indie and simulation game developed and published by Shugasu GmbH. Released on May 27th 2016 has received 1,916 reviews of which 1,638 were positive and 278 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 1,107 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #9 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.2
1,638
278
1,107
players
10. Soccer Manager 2025
Manage elite football clubs and lead your dream team as a football manager! Soccer Manager 2025 is a simulation, football (soccer) and sports game developed and published by Invincibles Studio Ltd. Released on October 23rd 2024 has received 1,527 reviews of which 1,136 were positive and 391 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 835 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #10 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
7.2
1,136
391
835
players