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.
Cliff Empire
After a nuclear war life on the surface became impossible. A 300m thick radioactive fog covered the Earth. We are looking for bold active people to manage the process of restoring life on Earth. Join!We Need To Go Deeper
DIVE. DISCOVER. DIE. Crew a submarine with friends in We Need To Go Deeper - a 2-4-player cooperative submarine roguelike set in a Verne-inspired undersea universe.Oxygen Not Included
Oxygen Not Included is a space-colony simulation game. Deep inside an alien space rock your industrious crew will need to master science, overcome strange new lifeforms, and harness incredible space tech to survive, and possibly, thrive.Cricket 19
A truly global cricket simulation from Big Ant Studios, the leading name in authentic, realistic cricket action, Cricket 19 allows you to take control of your team, from club through national level, and lead them to T20, ODI, or Test Match glory.CUSTOM ORDER MAID 3D2 It's a Night Magic
Empire Club. The most luxurious bar that ladies and gentlemen come and gather. The beautiful maids who worked there danced and talked with the customers to amuse them.The Blackout Club
The Blackout Club is a first-person co-op horror game centered around a group of teenage friends investigating a monstrous secret beneath the skin of their small town. 1-4 players explore procedurally-generated missions against a fearsome enemy you can only see with your eyes closed.WolfQuest: Anniversary Edition
Live the life of a wild wolf in a realistic ecological simulation set in Yellowstone National Park.1000 days to escape
Only 1000 days left until the end of the world. You have to realize the largest space program ever to save as many people as you can. Explore planets, colonize them, help people find a new home.The Backrooms Game FREE Edition
Nothing but the stink of old, moist carpets, the madness of mono-yellow, and the blinding light of fluorescent bulbs at maximum hum-buzz. Over 600 million sq. miles of randomly segmented rooms. God save you if you hear something wandering nearby, because it sure as hell has heard you.Elsinore
Elsinore is a time-looping adventure game set in the world of Shakespeare's Hamlet. Elsinore combines strong social simulation elements, a dynamic story that reacts immediately to player decisions, and a world full of diverse characters with secrets to uncover.Automachef
Welcome to Automachef, a resource management puzzler where you design kitchens, program machinery and watch your genius come to life! It’s time to engineer tomorrow’s kitchen, today!DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation
Show the Spirits the power of love and save the world in this romantic visual novel!People Playground
Shoot, stab, burn, poison, tear, vaporise, or crush ragdolls in a large open space.Arizona Derby
Hit the pedal, run out the offroad.Super Life (RPG)
Welcome home to Sun Villa! After a long summer at grandpa's ranch, it's time to finish school, get a job and move into your own place. Let the adventure of life begin!FIA European Truck Racing Championship
The only official simulation that features all the unique characteristics of the ETRC and offers all racing fans a completely new driving experience: race a giant 5-tonne, 1,000-horsepower truck against 12 competitors while respecting the race rules to avoid penalties.Night Call
Friend. Confidant. Therapist. Voyeur. As a cab driver working the Paris night shift, you are many things to different people. Your gift is getting people to talk; and in order to catch the serial killer who left you for dead, that’s exactly what you’ll need to do.Supremacy: 1914
Take over the control of one of the mighty nations during the times of World War 1 in the biggest WW1 strategy game of all time. Conquer provinces, forge alliances and build up your economy in real-time on persistent maps. Build experimental weapons of World War 1 and become the one true superpower!Break the Game
This game is about Kevin, He's been stuck in his gaf̶̨s̨fẃ̵̕ HEY, YOU, STAY AWA̸̧͘Y, IT'S ME KEVIN, THERE'S NO POINT, D҉Ò̷̕N̸̕͏'T-- Follow him in this adventurous and humor-filled story to d̶̢͙̟̦̺̰̫̙̋̊͐̐͑͋̈́̕̕͝ dieWaltz of the Wizard
Unleash epic magical powers in a wizard simulator inspired by the atmosphere of classic fantasy fiction! Brew potions in a bubbling cauldron with the help of the hyper-interactive Skully: your sassy, tormentable skull sidekick who reacts to everything you do. Playable on PC, Steam Deck, or VR!Kingdom Wars 2: Definitive Edition
An intense real-time strategy game set in a dark fantasy world of Orcs, Elves and Dragons. Kingdom Wars 2 combines the best of Zombie survival and crafting with complex fast-paced city building. Fight massive siege battles that turn beautiful landscapes into gory blood-soaked battlefields.Survive on Raft
Survive on Raft is a Survival Sandbox Simulator on the Raft in the middle of the ocean! Fight with shark, build base, craft, loot islands, farm and survive. Play solo or with friends.Marble Skies
Marble Skies is a fast paced 3D-platformer where you control your marble through various levels and try to get the best time for each one. Complete all the levels in your own time, or challenge your friends to get on top of the leaderboards!Who Is This Man
Who is This Man is an spy game with privacy and hiding. Secretly infiltrate his target's house and miss his stuff. Report them later. Buy new agent equipmentSimulation 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.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.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.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.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 4,212 reviews of which 3,576 were positive and 636 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.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.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.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.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.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.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.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.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.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.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.6. 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 1,379 reviews of which 1,023 were positive and 356 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for simulation games.7. 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 #7 position in the best deals for simulation games.8. 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 #8 position in the best deals for simulation games.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.10. 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 #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 14th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play simulation games.