Besides all the hoo-ha all types of titles bring, simulation games themselves let you roleplay life. From piloting a spaceship, and managing a bustling farm, to even throwing a knockout punch, there’s so much we can do. If you’re the type of gamer who is looking for some action like that, keep reading as we highlight the best simulation games you should play in 2024.
1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- Release Date: March 20, 2020
- Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
We all know that the best Nintendo Switch games have a variety of good simulators but Animal Crossing: New Horizons provides the best and most delightful farming experience possible. The game lets you grow crops, raise flowers, and catch critters, offering a relaxed pace in a charming world. While not as complex as traditional farming sims, it’s perfect for unwinding and building a beautiful island getaway.
2. The Sims 4
- Release Date: September 2, 2014
- Platform(s): PS4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Mac operating systems
It would be weird to talk about the best simulation games and not mention the Sims right? Long been known as one of the best contenders on the block, the Sims 4 is the latest iteration before the Sims 5 arrives. The game lets you create unique Sims, design dream homes, and pursue diverse careers. While some may find content releases spread thin, the core gameplay loop of storytelling and open-ended life simulation remains unmatched.
3. Stardew Valley
- Release Date: February 26, 2016
- Platform(s): Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, iOS, Android
Stardew Valley reigns supreme among farming simulators for its depth and engaging gameplay. It offers a rich world with a vast array of crops and animals to raise, alongside exciting activities like mining and relationship building. With its charming pixel art style and focus on player freedom, Stardew Valley provides the best immersive and rewarding farming simulator game experience for players on Nintendo Switch and almost all other platforms.
4. Taxi Life: A City Driving Simulator
- Release Date: March 7, 2024
- Platform(s): PlayStation 5, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S
Ever dreamt of cruising the bustling streets of Barcelona as a taxi driver? Taxi Life: A City Driving Simulator offers a unique experience in that vein. While the physics may not be hardcore racing-sim level, the open-world environment and focus on navigating a city with diverse passengers provide a compelling alternative. Manage your time, follow traffic laws (or don’t!), and explore the city in one of the best simulation games!
5. Farming Simulator 22
- Release Date: November 21, 2021
- Platform(s): iOS, iPadOS, Android, Kindle, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, PlayStation 3, PS Vita, Xbox 360, Nintendo 3DS, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Commodore 64, Stadia
Farming Simulator 22 lets you precisely manage every aspect of your dream farm. You’ll operate a vast selection of licensed vehicles and machinery from renowned brands, tending to crops, raising livestock, and even exploring forestry. With dynamic seasons impacting gameplay and a deep economy to master, Farming Simulator 22 offers a truly immersive and rewarding agricultural adventure. So, are you ready to cultivate a thriving virtual farm?
6. Disney Dreamlight Valley
- Release Date: September 6, 2022
- Platform(s): iOS, macOS, tvOS, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
If you want a simulation with celebrity characters by your side then Dreamlight Valley will be ideal. Disney Dreamlight Valley blends life-sim charm with beloved Disney characters. Befriend iconic figures like Mickey Mouse and Moana, restore a magical valley, and build your dream home. It offers a relaxed pace with engaging quests, exploration, and customization, making it perfect for Disney fans and cozy sim enthusiasts alike.
7. XCOM 2
- Release Date: February 5, 2016
- Platform(s): Linux, OS X, Windows, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
Lead the human resistance from the shadows in XCOM 2, a top contender in the best strategy simulation games category. This tactical masterpiece throws you into a guerilla war against a superior alien force. You’ll command a squad of customizable soldiers, utilizing cover, abilities, and strategic thinking to outmaneuver your foes in intense turn-based battles. With its high-stakes gameplay, deep soldier progression, and constant resource pressure, XCOM 2 offers a thrilling and challenging strategic experience.
8. Unpacking
- Release Date: November 2, 2021
- Platform(s): Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, Linux, Switch, Xbox One, PS4, PS5
Unwind with Unpacking, a charmingly cozy simulation game. Instead of high-pressure challenges, it focuses on the simple satisfaction of organizing belongings in a new home. Through the items you unpack, you’ll discover the story of the character’s life, one box at a time. Unpacking offers a relaxing and meditative experience. So if you want one of the best simulation games that lets you just unwind after a long day, give this one a try.
9. Microsoft Flight Simulator
- Release Date: August 18, 2020
- Platform(s): Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
If you always dreamt of being a pilot or flying your own jet, then this entry is the best flight simulator game on Xbox and PC. Microsoft Flight Simulator soars above the competition with its breathtaking realism. The game recreates the entire world in stunning detail by utilizing real-time weather data and satellite imagery. This, combined with its diverse aircraft selection and accurate flight modeling, makes Microsoft Flight Simulator one of the best flight simulation games in 2024.
10. Supermarket Simulator
- Release Date: January 18, 2024
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, GeForce Now
Unleash your inner retail tycoon with Supermarket Simulator! This engaging game lets you manage every aspect of your very own grocery store. Design the layout, stock the shelves, and keep customers happy as you build your supermarket empire. From meticulously managing inventory to optimizing product placement, Supermarket Simulator offers a surprisingly deep and rewarding experience for aspiring entrepreneurs.
11. F1 23
- Release Date: April 28, 2023
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Gear up for a thrilling ride with F1 23, a top contender in the category of best racing simulation games. It offers a deep and engaging experience, meticulously replicating the physics and demands of real-world Formula One racing. Master car handling, tire wear, and pit strategies to shave milliseconds off your lap times and dominate the competition. F1 23 is a must-play for any fan of precision racing and the high-octane world of Formula One.
12. WWE 2K24
- Release Date: March 5, 2024
- Platform(s): PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
There aren’t enough fighting simulators that make you feel all the entertainment while keeping it real. Although the UFC series does take you close nothing comes fully makes it real like the latest WWE game. Taking the crown of the best fighting simulation game, WWE 2K24 offers tons of game modes while keeping the sim experience intact. Moreover, WWE brings a lot of other strategic simulations like the Universe mode and GM mode that complement its stacked roster.
13. Roots of Pacha
- Release Date: April 25, 2023
- Platform(s): Linux, macOS, Windows, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PlayStation 5
Escape to the Stone Age in Roots of Pacha, a charming farming sim with a twist. Build a thriving community, collaborate with your tribe, and invent new tools alongside traditional farming tasks. The relaxing pace, delightful visuals, and optional co-op make it perfect for heartwarming adventures. All these make Roots of Pacha one of the best farming simulation experiences on multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch.
14. Football Manager 2024
- Release Date: November 6, 2023
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, iPad, iOS, Android, macOS, Apple Arcade, Nintendo Switch
While I am not a big fan of the sport, Football Manager 2024 surely takes the crown as the definitive football manager and best sports simulation game. The game’s unparalleled depth allows you to control every aspect of a club, from tactics and player transfers to youth development and media relations. Furthermore, the expansive database and realistic match engine offer a truly immersive experience. With its unmatched level of detail and strategic complexity, Football Manager 2024 remains the ultimate football management simulation.
15. Summerhouse
If you are up for a comfy sim experience, Summerhouse offers a delightful cozy simulator experience. Unwind as you design and build charming miniature houses, with complete freedom to customize every detail. There are no goals or pressure, just the joy of crafting a beautiful and lived-in space that sparks your imagination. With its charming aesthetics and focus on pure creativity, Summerhouse is the perfect way to relax in one of the best simulation games of 2024.
- Release Date: December 6, 2023
- Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, macOS, Mac operating systems
And that ends our list of the best simulation games you should play in 2024. Got more to add to our list? Let us know in the comments below!
