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
No-brainer Heroes 挂机吧！勇者
No-brainer Heroes is a pixel style semi-idle RPG game. As a lord, you need to run your town, recruit your heroes, defeat level monsters, solve random events, collect powerful treasures, and finally defeat evil dragons.
Biker Garage: Mechanic Simulator
Become an ace motorcycle mechanic. Buy used motorcycles, repair, and sell them for a profit. Work with 15 types of motorbikes. Develop a workshop and attract as many customers as you can. Customize bikes or create your own dream bike from hundreds of available parts.
Rock Simulator
Become what you have always imagined, a rock with no responsibilities, no debt, and no worries. The only thing on your checklist is to exist and watch as time fades away...also to become the golden rock.
The Political Process
Explore a dynamic world of politics in this turn-based, political simulator. Create a character, run for political office, write legislation, balance budgets, and more as you move up the political hierarchy.
Plutocracy
The business simulator Plutocracy gives you the chance to become wealthy and powerful to take control over the world. Where policy, laws, officials and people are only the chess pieces how do you play your game?
Farmer's Dynasty
Live – Build – Farm: Enjoy a unique mix of farming, constructing and life simulation that takes you to the countryside and holds plenty of challenging gameplay in stock!
Sigma Theory: Global Cold War
A Turn-based Strategy game in a futuristic global cold war from the award-winning creators of Out There. Recruit a squad of special agents and run your intel agency to secure the control of the singularity.
LAMUNATION! -international-
Now, this is a story all about how, Luna's life got flipped-turned upside down... Kick back at the Cherry Crown Diner with a cast of quirky heroines in this meme-tastic visual novel that's fizzing with extreme happiness.
Automation Empire
Build and manage a massive industrial network of factories, mines, and farms. Employ a fleet of trains, trucks, and robotic drones. In the age of automation, efficiency is survival!
RUSSI.A SIMULATOR
Pitun, Vodka and Hardbass
Open World Game: the Open World Game
Open World Game: the Open World Game is the purest open world game experience. Enjoy simplified mechanics, minimal graphics, and an extremely short main story; all so you can get to work removing every icon from the map with the least resistance.
MOLEK-SYNTEZ
Use the MOLEK-SYNTEZ to create small molecules with various pharmacological effects from the comfort of your small Romanian apartment.![[Chilla's Art] Inunaki Tunnel | 犬鳴トンネル](https://shared.cloudflare.steamstatic.com/store_item_assets/steam/apps/1185160/header.jpg)
[Chilla's Art] Inunaki Tunnel | 犬鳴トンネル
Inunaki tunnel (or Inunaki village) is a famous Japanese horror spot where people have been killed or burnt to death.
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!
Pixel Puzzles Traditional Jigsaw Puzzles
Pixel Puzzles, your number one place for digital jigsaws.
Tracks - The Train Set Game
Jump into the ultimate toy sandbox and build the train set of your dreams! Create colourful railway systems, decorate beautiful towns, transport commuting passengers, and even ride your train in first-person.
Command: Modern Operations
Command: Modern Operations is the next generation in cross-domain modern wargaming. It enables you to simulate every military engagement from post World War II to the present day and beyond. The scale is primarily tactical/operational, although strategic scale operations are also possible.
Putin Life
Putin Life - a game that allows you to feel not only the leader of the Russian Federation, but perhaps the Lord of the world.Rob, steal, enslave.
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.
Master Of Pottery
Master of Pottery is a pottery-themed creation + simulation game. Make pottery, open exhibitions, complete orders, train apprentices, run your own showroom and start a relaxing pottery journey.
Basement
Basement is a strategy game, where you start doing illegal business to fund the development of your dream video game. It won't be easy, so get ready to deal with other gangs, cops, crazy junkies, mysterious investor and even ghosts from the past.
Marbles on Stream
Marbles on Stream is a Marble Racing game for EVERYONE! You can simulate races yourself or stream it on Twitch.tv with your viewers! Many features in game to help interact with your viewers and engage with them in unique ways. 3 ways to play! Download and stream! Download the MoS app on your mobile device! Get on Twitch.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 14th 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 182,194 reviews of which 179,400 were positive and 2,794 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 53,100 peak concurrent players over the last day.
9.7
179,400
2,794
53,100
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 750,433 reviews of which 479,286 were positive and 271,147 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. While seeing 40,543 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among simulation games based on player count.
6.4
479,286
271,147
40,543
players
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 22,355 reviews of which 20,290 were positive and 2,065 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. While seeing 36,888 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among simulation games based on player count.
8.9
20,290
2,065
36,888
players
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 125,462 reviews of which 113,142 were positive and 12,320 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 16,217 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.9
113,142
12,320
16,217
players
5. 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 4,230 reviews of which 3,588 were positive and 642 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 14,420 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.2
3,588
642
14,420
players
6. 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 318,035 reviews of which 309,769 were positive and 8,266 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. With 14,160 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played simulation games.
9.6
309,769
8,266
14,160
players
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 862,287 reviews of which 839,501 were positive and 22,786 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 13,673 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played simulation games.
9.7
839,501
22,786
13,673
players
8. 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 32,219 reviews of which 26,870 were positive and 5,349 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 13,438 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.2
26,870
5,349
13,438
players
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 133,756 reviews of which 115,812 were positive and 17,944 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 13,035 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played simulation games.
8.6
115,812
17,944
13,035
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 29,223 reviews of which 22,099 were positive and 7,124 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. With 10,621 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played simulation games.
7.5
22,099
7,124
10,621
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 May 14th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted simulation games.
1. Distant Worlds 2
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game. Distant Worlds 2 is a strategy, simulation and 4x game developed by CodeForce and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on March 10th 2022 has received 3,217 reviews of which 2,290 were positive and 927 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Featuring a massive 98% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for simulation category.
6.9
2,290
927
-98%
50.00€
1.00€
2. 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 1,028 reviews of which 776 were positive and 252 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 97% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in simulation games.
7.2
776
252
-97%
33.33€
1.00€
3. 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 2,422 reviews of which 2,183 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 #3 best deal in simulation games.
8.6
2,183
239
-96%
25.00€
1.00€
4. Field of Glory II
Field of Glory II is a turn-based tactical game set during the Rise of Rome from 280 BC to 25 BC. Field of Glory II is a strategy, simulation and turn-based strategy game developed by Byzantine Games and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on October 12th 2017 has received 1,150 reviews of which 957 were positive and 193 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.9
957
193
-96%
26.00€
1.04€
5. Garden Life: A Cozy Simulator
Garden Life is a relaxing gardening game in which you create your dream garden in a peaceful, colourful world. Plant and add ornaments at your own pace, transforming an overgrown forgotten plot into a flourishing community garden. Garden Life: A Cozy Simulator is a relaxing, simulation and cozy game developed by stillalive studios and published by Nacon. Released on February 22nd 2024 has received 1,226 reviews of which 938 were positive and 288 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for simulation games.
7.3
938
288
-96%
26.25€
1.05€
6. 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 1,396 reviews of which 1,001 were positive and 395 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for simulation games.
6.9
1,001
395
-96%
25.00€
1.00€
7. 112 Operator
Manage emergency services in any city in the world! Take calls and dispatch rescue forces. Handle difficult situations, now depending on the weather, and traffic. Help the citizens through cataclysms and natural disasters, becoming a better emergency number operator every day! 112 Operator is a simulation, realistic and casual game developed by Jutsu Games and published by Games Operators. Released on April 23rd 2020 has received 6,529 reviews of which 5,845 were positive and 684 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for simulation games.
8.7
5,845
684
-95%
22.80€
1.14€
8. 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 1,845 reviews of which 1,642 were positive and 203 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for simulation games.
8.5
1,642
203
-95%
20.00€
1.00€
9. 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 3,252 reviews of which 2,871 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 #9 position in the best deals for simulation games.
8.5
2,871
381
-95%
20.00€
1.00€
10. 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 7,608 reviews of which 6,376 were positive and 1,232 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for simulation games.
8.2
6,376
1,232
-95%
63.40€
3.17€
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 14th 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 750,433 reviews of which 479,286 were positive and 271,147 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. With 40,543 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free simulation games on Steam.
6.4
479,286
271,147
40,543
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 4,230 reviews of which 3,588 were positive and 642 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 14,420, this simulation game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free simulation games on Steam.
8.2
3,588
642
14,420
players
3. 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 2,804 reviews of which 2,607 were positive and 197 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 4,336, this simulation game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free simulation games on Steam.
8.9
2,607
197
4,336
players
4. 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 65,704 reviews of which 62,384 were positive and 3,320 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 4,155 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
9.3
62,384
3,320
4,155
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 State Space Labs and Inc.. 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 3,112 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
3,112
players
6. 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 23,461 reviews of which 21,086 were positive and 2,375 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 2,480 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.8
21,086
2,375
2,480
players
7. 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 64,931 reviews of which 56,362 were positive and 8,569 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 2,352 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.6
56,362
8,569
2,352
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 7,086 reviews of which 6,753 were positive and 333 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 2,014 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #8 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
9.2
6,753
333
2,014
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 1,897 reviews of which 1,622 were positive and 275 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 1,344 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #9 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
8.2
1,622
275
1,344
players
10. Incremental Epic Hero 2
A mixture of incremental/idle and roleplaying game set in fantasy world filled with monsters and things to explore, where battling is constant, almost everything can be upgraded, and with wide array of various prestige mechanics to always keep things interesting and moving forward! Incremental Epic Hero 2 is a simulation, idler and rpg game developed by Hapiwaku and published by Idle System and Inc.. Released on January 02nd 2025 has received 1,400 reviews of which 999 were positive and 401 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 939 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #10 position in the best free simulation games on Steam.
6.9
999
401
939
players