The Most Popular Simulation Game, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the simulation game you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 15, 2024 07:38
In the world of gaming, simulation games have carved out a unique niche by allowing players to experience realistic activities and scenarios from the comfort of their own homes. These games offer a chance to step into different roles, manage resources, and make decisions that have direct impacts within the game's environment. Understanding which simulations capture the hearts of gamers can help new players find quality titles and provide veteran gamers with insights on trending gameplay experiences.
By casting your vote on your preferred simulation games, you contribute to a dynamic list that reflects the current favorites in the community. This live ranking not only fuels a collective voice on quality and engagement but also assists developers in understanding what features resonate with their audience. Your participation ensures that the list remains fresh and relevant, providing valuable guidance to both fellow gamers and developers alike.
What Is the Most Popular Simulation Game?
-
168votes
The Sims
Will WrightThe Sims is a life simulation game where players create and control virtual people, managing their needs and desires. It is one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time.The Sims is a popular life simulation video game series where players control virtual characters called Sims, managing their daily activities, relationships, and aspirations in a virtual world.- Genre: Life simulation
- Platform: Microsoft Windows
- Initial release: February 4, 2000
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Modes: Single-player
-
239votesSimCity is a city-building simulation game where players design and manage their own cities. It has been a popular game since the 1990s and has inspired many other city-building games.SimCity is a popular simulation game where players act as the mayor of a virtual city, responsible for building and managing various aspects of the city's infrastructure and services. The game provides a sandbox environment that allows players to create and shape their ideal city, while facing challenges such as resource management, citizen happiness, and natural disasters.
- Release Date: February 2, 1989
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Macintosh, Amiga, SNES, PlayStation, Nintendo 64, Xbox, iOS, Android
- Genre: City-building, Simulation
- Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
- Graphics: 2D, Isometric
-
315votes
RollerCoaster Tycoon
Chris SawyerRollerCoaster Tycoon is a theme park simulation game where players design and manage their own amusement parks. It has been a popular game since its release in 1999.RollerCoaster Tycoon is a popular simulation game where players assume the role of a theme park manager. The objective is to build and manage amusement parks, design thrilling roller coasters, and ensure the happiness of park visitors. As the game progresses, players can unlock new rides, attractions, and scenery to enhance their parks. RollerCoaster Tycoon offers a realistic simulation experience with challenging objectives and a sandbox mode for creative freedom.- Release Date: March 31, 1999
- Platforms: PC, Xbox, iOS, Android
- Genre: Simulation, Strategy
- Single Player: Yes
- Multiplayer: No
RollerCoaster Tycoon in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Tycoon game
-
420votes
Euro Truck Simulator 2
SCS SoftwareEuro Truck Simulator 2 is a truck simulation game where players drive and manage their own trucks, delivering cargo across Europe. It has a dedicated fan base and has been praised for its realism.Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a popular simulation game that allows players to experience the life of a truck driver in Europe. With a realistic driving experience and stunning graphics, players can navigate their trucks through various European cities and highways, delivering cargo and building their own transportation empire.- Release Date: October 19, 2012
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux
- Game Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
- Map Size: Approximately 27,000 kilometers of road network
- Truck Brands: Scania, Volvo, MAN, DAF, Iveco, Renault, Mercedes-Benz
-
54votes
Farming Simulator
Giants SoftwareFarming Simulator is a farming simulation game where players manage their own farm, raising crops and livestock. It has been a popular game since its release in 2008.Farming Simulator is a highly popular farming simulation game that allows players to experience the challenges and rewards of managing their own virtual farm. With realistic gameplay and stunning graphics, it offers an immersive and detailed farming experience.- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
- Release Date: First version released in 2008
- Game Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
- Farming Activities: Crop cultivation, Animal husbandry, Forestry, Vehicle maintenance
- Realistic Vehicles: Over 300 authentic farming vehicles and equipment from leading brands
Farming Simulator in other rankings- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular farming game
-
67votes
Cities: Skylines - Cities
Developed by Colossal OrderSkylines is a city-building simulation game where players design and manage their own cities. It has been praised for its depth and realism, and is considered by many to be a successor to SimCity.Cities: Skylines is a highly acclaimed simulation game that allows players to design and manage their own virtual city. With extensive city-building features and realistic gameplay mechanics, it offers an immersive experience for both casual and hardcore gamers alike.- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
- Release Date: March 10, 2015
- Genre: Simulation, city-building
- Single Player: Yes
- Multiplayer: Yes (with DLC)
-
711votes
NASA · Public domainFlight Simulator
Microsoft StudiosFlight Simulator is a flight simulation game where players pilot airplanes and other aircraft. It has been a popular game since the 1980s and has been praised for its realism.Flight Simulator is a highly realistic simulation game that allows players to experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft. It offers a comprehensive virtual environment with accurate physics and detailed replicas of real-world aircraft.- Release Date: August 18, 2020
- Platforms: Windows, Xbox Series X/S
- Aircrafts: Over 30 aircrafts
- World Detail: Bing Maps integration with highly detailed landscapes covering the entire planet
- Weather System: Real-time weather data based on the player's current location
-
86votes
Zoo Tycoon
Frontier DevelopmentsZoo Tycoon is a zoo simulation game where players design and manage their own zoos. It has been a popular game since its release in 2001.Zoo Tycoon is a simulation game where players can create and manage their own virtual zoo. They have the freedom to design the layout, adopt and care for a variety of animals, and provide entertainment and amenities for visitors.- Platform: Windows, Xbox One
- Release Date: November 12, 2013
- Game Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
- Graphics: 3D
- Sandbox Mode: Yes
Zoo Tycoon in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Tycoon game
-
93votes
Prison Architect
Introversion SoftwarePrison Architect is a prison construction and management simulation game. It has been praised for its depth and complexity, and has a dedicated fan base.Prison Architect is a popular simulation game that puts players in charge of designing and managing a maximum security prison. It offers a unique and immersive experience of building and running a prison facility, dealing with various challenges and making critical decisions to maintain order and security.- Release Date: October 6, 2015
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360
- Genre: Simulation, strategy
- Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
- Graphics: 2D
Prison Architect in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular Tycoon game
-
102votes
Kerbal Space Program
SquadKerbal Space Program is a space flight simulation game where players design and manage their own space program. It has been praised for its realism and educational value, and has a dedicated fan base.Kerbal Space Program is a highly popular game developed with Unity that allows players to design and manage their own space program. It provides a realistic simulation of space exploration and various challenges that players must overcome to successfully explore the Kerbal galaxy.- Genre: Simulation
- Platform(s): Windows, macOS, Linux
- Release Date: April 27, 2015
- Game Modes: Single-player
- Average Playtime: 30+ hours
Kerbal Space Program in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular space game
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular game made with Unity
Missing your favorite simulation game?
Graphs
Discussion
Ranking factors for popular simulation game
-
User ratings and reviewsA high rating and positive reviews from users indicate that a game is well-received and enjoyed by players.
-
Sales and downloadsThe amount of sales and downloads can also be a good indication of the popularity of a game, as high numbers suggest that the game has a broad appeal.
-
Genre and sub-genreThe genre of the game, such as city building, farming, or life simulation, can also be a factor in its popularity, as it will attract players with specific interests.
-
RealismThe level of realism in the game can also be a factor in its popularity, as players may be drawn to games that accurately simulate real-world scenarios and experiences.
-
Replay valueA game with high replay value, meaning that it can be played over and over again without becoming boring, can also contribute to its popularity among players.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular simulation game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or simulator is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1927 views
- 180 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each simulator once every 24 hours. The rank of each simulator is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular simulation game
Simulation games have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing players to experience a variety of real-world scenarios in a virtual setting. From building and managing a city to piloting a plane or even running a farm, these games offer a unique and immersive experience that can be both entertaining and educational. But with so many simulation games on the market, which one is the most popular? At StrawPoll, we've gathered data from thousands of polls and rankings to find out which simulation game reigns supreme. So, whether you're a seasoned gamer or just getting started, read on to discover the most popular simulation game of all time.
Explore other rankings
Check out some of the other recommended rankings on StrawPoll and make your voice heard.
