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.
Football Manager 2021
New additions and game upgrades deliver added levels of depth, drama and football authenticity. FM21 empowers you like never before to develop your skills and command success at your club.~Be a maid in the Demon World~ The Secret Café of the Demon Angel Hero.
The protagonist who Reincarnated to the Demon World became a black mascot, in order to restore his original appearance. Use the knowledge of the "different world" to transform the little devil's tavern into a maid cafe, and aim for the first maid cafe in the demon world!Shenmue III
Shenmue III sees the eagerly anticipated continuation of the epic story-driven saga. Take control of Ryo Hazuki, a teenage martial artist, determined to unravel the mystery behind his father's murder and to exact revenge on the killer.Firefighting Simulator - The Squad
Firefighting Simulator lets you experience what it means to fight fires up close as an active part of a major US city's firefighting crew - together with up to 3 friends in the co-op multiplayer- or in the single player mode.Mars Horizon
Lead a major space agency as you guide humanity to Mars in this strategy simulation game. Construct a base, design and build rockets, conduct missions throughout the Solar System, and write your own history of Space exploration. Created with support from the European Space Agency.My Name is Mayo 2
Mayo is back, and it’s all about kicking butts and having an existential crisis. This is a clicker game about a mayonnaise jar.Five Dates
Five Dates is an interactive rom-com about the unpredictable world of digital dating. With five potential female matches, Vinny explores whether compatibility, chemistry and connection is still possible in a world where physical touch is no longer an option.Rover Mechanic Simulator
As an Engineer - crew member of one of the first Mars colonies - you are responsible for repairing and maintaining Mars Rovers. In this advanced simulator you will learn the internal details of various Mars Rovers and their components.Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin
Discover the true power of rice in Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin! Take on hordes of demons in side-scrolling combat to reclaim the land as Sakuna, a spoiled harvest goddess banished to a dangerous island. Then, return to your mountain village and tend a field full of glorious rice.The Falconeer
Soar through the skies aboard a majestic warbird, explore a stunning oceanic world and engage in epic aerial dogfights, in this BAFTA-nominated air combat game from solo developer, Tomas Sala.From the Depths
Over 1000 unique components allow you to build and command voxel vehicles from the deep ocean to outer space! Forge strategies, allegiances and fleets strong enough to destroy eight deadly factions of the planet and reign supreme. A genre-defying mashup of simulation, building, RTS and RPG.Choice of Life: Middle Ages
A card game in a Medieval setting where you make decisions on which not only your life will depend, but also the future of the kingdom!Thief Simulator VR
Become a thief in VR! Feel the thrill of stealing in free roam sandbox neighborhoods. Use lockpicks and hi-tech hacking tools. Observe your target, gather information and hide from police. Or drive a car like crazy to get out of trouble!Möbius Front '83
Defend America from an alternate-universe America using state-of-the-art 1980s military hardware in this intricate and tactical turn-based strategy game.Car Trader Simulator
Do you know how to profit from trading cars while maintaining a good reputation? Car Trader Simulator lets you play the role of an American car dealer. Your goal is to get rich. How you do it depends entirely on you.Marble Age: Remastered
Marble Age is a turn-based historical strategy where your task is to turn a small Ancient Greek village into a flourishing Polis, powerful enough to conquer the known world!Due Process
A PVP tactical FPS about PLANNING & EXECUTION. Sound strategy and good teamwork are essential for victory because new PROCEDURALLY-GENERATED MAPS are delivered every week. You'll face a new tactical challenge every round.Kingdoms Reborn
A city builder with simulated citizens, set in a procedurally-generated world map. Grow your kingdom through the eras from a tiny medieval hamlet into a prosperous global empire! Cooperate or compete in real-time with your friends in multiplayer mode.Witches x Warlocks
Witches x Warlocks is a cute and light-hearted Halloween Raising Sim; featuring a customizable protagonist and 4 love interests of different genders!Visage
Visage is a first-person psychological horror game. Explore a mysterious ever-changing house in a slow-paced, atmospheric world that combines both uncannily comforting and horrifyingly realistic environments, and enjoy a genuinely terrifying experience.TramSim Vienna - The Tram Simulator
Experience with TramSim the most modern tram simulator, which impresses with photo-realistic graphics and as first location the Austrian capital Vienna in a virtual reality that has never been seen before.Pacer
PACER is high-octane anti-gravity racing at its most destructive. Customise your craft and weapons then engage in the campaign, a single-player race or compete against your rivals in explosive online multiplayer for the ultimate combat racing experience.Oasis VR
Oasis is an amazing virtual environment where you can make new friends around the world! You can chat with them, play poker, go bowling, or even arrange a home party in several virtual worlds. You can also create your own avatars for you and your friends!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 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 May 05th 2025.
1. 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 168,496 reviews of which 165,982 were positive and 2,514 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played simulation game, thanks to its 99,885 peak concurrent players over the last day.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 748,348 reviews of which 477,680 were positive and 270,668 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. While seeing 43,833 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among simulation games based on player count.3. 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 22,151 reviews of which 20,099 were positive and 2,052 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. While seeing 39,652 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among simulation games based on player count.4. 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 124,733 reviews of which 112,689 were positive and 12,044 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 19,699 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played simulation games.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 316,795 reviews of which 308,580 were positive and 8,215 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 16,898 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played simulation games.6. 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 31,780 reviews of which 26,493 were positive and 5,287 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 16,380 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played simulation games.7. 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 860,745 reviews of which 838,003 were positive and 22,742 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 16,260 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played simulation games.8. 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 28,327 reviews of which 21,348 were positive and 6,979 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. With 16,220 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played simulation games.9. 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 133,611 reviews of which 115,671 were positive and 17,940 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 12,906 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played simulation games.10. Arma 3
Experience true combat gameplay in a massive military sandbox. Deploying a wide variety of single- and multiplayer content, over 20 vehicles and 40 weapons, and limitless opportunities for content creation, this is the PC’s premier military game. Authentic, diverse, open - Arma 3 sends you to war. Arma 3 is a military, action and multiplayer game developed and published by Bohemia Interactive. Released on September 12th 2013 has received 281,978 reviews of which 254,964 were positive and 27,014 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. With 11,239 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played simulation games.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 May 05th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted simulation games.
1. 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 1,026 reviews of which 774 were positive and 252 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. Featuring a massive 97% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for simulation category.2. Automobilista
AUTOMOBILISTA places you in the driving seat of an advanced racing simulator, featuring elite brazilian racing series along with a wide range of racing vehicles and international tracks for a uniquely diverse motorsports experience. Automobilista is a racing, simulation and automobile sim game developed and published by Reiza Studios. Released on August 24th 2016 has received 2,417 reviews of which 2,178 were positive and 239 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in simulation games.3. Naheulbeuk's Dungeon Master
A dungeon in danger ! Build, manage, and defend your tower in the satirical heroic fantasy universe of Dungeon of Naheulbeuk. From a shaky establishment to an infamous lair! Naheulbeuk's Dungeon Master is a management, simulation and funny game developed by Artefacts Studio and published by Dear Villagers. Released on November 15th 2023 has received 1,391 reviews of which 998 were positive and 393 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in simulation games.4. The Pale Beyond
You didn’t ask to lead this expedition, but here you are. Stuck in the ice, Captain missing, miles from civilisation. Someone has to take charge. Manage your meagre resources, balance safety and morale, make the hard calls, and head in the only direction you can - through The Pale Beyond. The Pale Beyond is a resource management, survival and choices matter game developed by Bellular Studios and published by Fellow Traveller. Released on February 24th 2023 has received 1,831 reviews of which 1,630 were positive and 201 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for simulation games.5. Terraformers
Terraform Mars in this turn-based colony builder and resource management game with roguelike elements. Explore the planet, develop spectacular cities, spread life and turn the Red Planet into a green one! Terraformers is a simulation, procedural generation and survival game developed by Asteroid Lab and published by Goblinz Publishing and IndieArk. Released on March 09th 2023 has received 3,239 reviews of which 2,858 were positive and 381 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for simulation games.6. Eastside Hockey Manager
EHM offers fans the most realistic, in-depth and immersive simulation of hockey management available, giving them the chance to manage either club or country in any of the world’s top hockey-playing nations. Eastside Hockey Manager is a hockey, sports and simulation game developed by Sports Interactive and published by SEGA. Released on December 01st 2015 has received 1,330 reviews of which 1,140 were positive and 190 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for simulation games.7. PGA TOUR 2K21
Play against the pros. Play with your crew. In PGA TOUR 2K21, you can play by the rules or create your own featuring a new PGA TOUR Career Mode, licensed courses and more! Powered by The Golf Club. PGA TOUR 2K21 is a sports, simulation and local multiplayer game developed by HB Studios Multimedia Ltd. and published by 2K. Released on August 20th 2020 has received 7,607 reviews of which 6,374 were positive and 1,233 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for simulation games.8. Railway Empire
In Railway Empire, you will create an elaborate and wide-ranging rail network, purchase over 40 different trains modelled in extraordinary detail, and buy or build railway stations, maintenance buildings, factories and tourist attractions to keep your travel network ahead of the competition. Railway Empire is a strategy, simulation and management game developed by Gaming Minds Studios and published by Kalypso Media. Released on January 26th 2018 has received 9,386 reviews of which 7,770 were positive and 1,616 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for simulation games.9. Black Skylands
Become the captain of an airship and explore the world of the skies, gather resources and build powerful weapons, uncover ancient secrets and fight beneath your ship's sails. Black Skylands is a pixel graphics, open world and sandbox game developed by Hungry Couch Games and published by tinyBuild. Released on August 15th 2023 has received 3,836 reviews of which 3,181 were positive and 655 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for simulation games.10. 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 4,541 reviews of which 3,726 were positive and 815 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for simulation games.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 May 05th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play simulation games.