Table of Contents[Hide][Show]
- #31 Rematch
- #30 PVKK
- #29 Paralives
- #28 Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition
- #27 City Car Driving 2.0
- #26 Hunting Simulator 3
- #25 Kingmakers
- #24 Assetto Corsa EVO
- #23 Rise of Industry 2
- #22 F1 25
- #21 inZOI
- #20 Forza Horizon 5
- #19 Schedule I
- #18 Two Point Museum
- #17 Architect Life: A House Design Simulator
- #16 Lushfoil Photography Sim
- #15 WWE 2K25
- #14 Streamer Life Simulator 2
- #13 Falling Frontier
- #12 Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time
- #11 Roman Empire Wars
- #10 Noble’s Life: Kingdom Reborn
- #9 Polyaris
- #8 Prison Architect 2
- #7 Wanderstop
- #6 Hotel Galactic
- #5 Copa City
- #4 Ascent of Ashes
- #3 Wreckfest 2
- #2 Frontier Governor
- #1 Medic: Pacific War

If you can’t pull it off in the real world then why not try out these simulation games? Here are some of games we’re anticipating to play throughout 2025.
#31 Rematch

Sports games in and of themselves are simulator titles simply because they are about replicating the real-world sports we enjoy watching on TV but can’t necessarily do ourselves. However, it can, at times, get boring due to how each iteration of the various sports titles is just a very small improvement from what we had before.
That being said, games like Rematch want to do something more. First, the game is set in the third-person perspective, so you’ll have a more personal viewing of the field. Second, the game is about skill more than stats. Play your way and grow through that so you can school the competition and grow how you want.
#30 PVKK

There are plenty of video games out there that are about protecting a certain place from inevitable doom. In PVKK, which has a much longer name that we’re not even going to attempt to say, you’ll take on this task in a much more unique way. How so? In the game, you’re not a lone soldier who is trying to “fight off the odds as best you can.”
Instead, you’re a single person who is basically trapped in a large planetary defense grid, and you’re the only person able to stop an invasion that’s raining down around you.
Use this place to the fullest and survive!
#29 Paralives

Have you ever owned a dollhouse? If you did, did you think about what the dolls themselves did in the house while you played with them? If you did, then Paralives might be a game that is perfect to rekindle your childlike spirit. In it, you’ll build a dollhouse to your liking, and then, you’ll put people in it and manage their lives. Make the people look how you want, act how you want, and then see what paths you’ll have their lives take as time goes on!
Plus, there will be chances to mod things and grow your house even further through community content.
#28 Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition

Medieval times have been the setting for many games in the past and even the recent present. However, some titles are truly timeless, and they deserve to be remastered for new generations to play and enjoy. Enter Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition, a remastered and complete version of the past classic, ready to entertain you as you do battle across deserts and strongholds alike.
You’ll pick your group and then traverse vast terrains, build up strongholds to fight off enemy hordes, and more! The dev team worked hard to maintain the feel of the game while also honoring the look the game had in its original version.
#27 City Car Driving 2.0

At first, you be as perplexed as we were when we learned that City Car Driving 2.0 was an actual game. Yes, it’s a simulator game, but it’s one that’s all about city driving. Your first question here might be, “Why in the world does this game exist?” The easy answer is that this simulator is about helping young drivers who aren’t fully acclimated to city driving just yet get to a position where they can be comfy behind the wheel.
To that end, through the use of AI, you’ll learn what it’s like to drive in the city and get tips on how to handle difficult spots.
#26 Hunting Simulator 3

For some people, hunting is a sacred pastime. It’s something that dates back to the earliest days of man, and while it’s a lot more restricted nowadays, for very good reasons, it’s something that people still love to do. However, some of you might not be the “outdoor type,” but still appreciate the thrill of the hunt. Thus, you might want to try out Hunting Simulator 3.
The game is all about going out into the virtual world and using your hunting skills so that you can perfectly take down your prized game. The environment shifts with time, and you never know what the animals might do, so be ready!
#25 Kingmakers

Admittedly, Kingmakers isn’t your typical simulation game, and for a basic reason. The reason is that it’s a game that technically takes place in the future, but then you’ll go back in time to try and change it. Why? Because the end of the world is happening, and if you don’t change things for the better, everything is screwed! No pressure, right?
The good news is that while you are transported to medieval times, you’ll have on you modern and futuristic weapons so you can take on these knights in droves and wipe them off the face of the Earth. Sound like fun to you?
#24 Assetto Corsa EVO

In the racing world, a “simulation game can mean quite a few things, and in the case of Assetto Corsa EVO, it’s not just about having a realistic driving experience, it’s about having THE most realistic driving experience, especially with the cars you’ll be driving. These rides have been meticulously put into the game so that they look and drive like their real-world counterparts.
So, if that sounds great to you, you’ll want to jump in and take to the road either alone, with friends, or with others online to see what adventures you can get up to in these rides. Embrace the feel of realism as you drive!
#23 Rise of Industry 2

Simulation games come in many different forms, but one of the more popular ones is running a business. Who hasn’t wanted to become a “tycoon” of some kind over the years? In the case of Rise of Industry 2, you’ll be put in the United States during the 80s, when businesses were truly booming. You’ll be put as the head of one of these companies and be asked to make it as successful as possible.
That means you’ll need to think long- and short-term to ensure profits and expansion and buy out your competitors if possible. Do you think you have what it takes to make it to the top?
#22 F1 25

In the world of racing, there are “levels” to what you can do and how fast you can go in the rides you have. F1 is repeatedly touted as the fastest racing in the world, and that’s not an exaggeration. In fact, it’s reality. So, in the case of F1 25, you’ll be charged with racing the fastest vehicles out there on a winding course and having to do your best to get victory for yourself and your team.
You’ll need to ensure your car is as good as it can be, that you have the right pit crew and that you can handle the other racers. Ready to get into the driver’s seat?
#21 inZOI

Not all simulators are built the same, as we’ve shown you. Instead, some look at life in a different way and ask you to craft it in one of many forms. In the case of inZoi, the game is about creating a world full of people and then seeing what interactions and adventures happen with them. Through the awesome power of Unreal Engine 5, you’ll craft a city full of people and watch their lives unfold. Each interaction you make could be very different from the last, which will inspire you to make different places to see what life does within each spot!
Grow your world the way you see fit!
#20 Forza Horizon 5

Forza fans have had quite a few games to look back on and enjoy. However, this franchise is about to change as it finally debuts on the PlayStation 5. Forza Horizon 5 might already be available on PC and Xbox consoles, but this year, it’s finally arriving on the PlayStation 5.
I’m sure you know this franchise, but it’s a racing game series. In this particular installment, players are tossed into the vibrant environment of Mexico. You’ll get to race through the different tracks with a wide assortment of vehicles, all while taking in some gorgeous scenery. With this game already beloved by so many racing fans worldwide, it’s about to see a new resurgence of racers flood into the game.
#19 Schedule I

Looking for a little more of a wacky simulation-style game? Why not check out Schedule I, which has gained quite a bit of a following already? The game is all about growing your drug empire. You’ll start with next to nothing as you attempt to build up an underground corporation.
Expand to different drugs, figure out how to best produce them, hire dealers to flip the product, and continue to evade the law. However, it’s not only the law you’ll have to deal with, as rival cartel competitors will also want you off their streets.
#18 Two Point Museum

The folks behind Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus have another simulation game coming out this year with Two Point Museum. Now, if you played the previous games, then you’ll know what to expect here. It’s another lighthearted simulation strategy game. Of course, with this time, as the name suggests, you’re dealing with creating an incredible museum this time.
Players will build a museum in hopes of keeping guests not only entertained but informed. However, that’s not always easy. You’ll have to continue building the museum, making adjustments, ensuring that the layout flows just right for your guests, and ultimately making your museum stand out.
#17 Architect Life: A House Design Simulator

Ever wanted to be an architect? When building dream homes with Architect Life: A House Design Simulator, you can let your creativity run wild. You’ll run an architectural firm where you must build homes and properties from scratch. Players will take on clients and design a home based on the specifications they lay out for you.
Of course, if you like to dabble with complete creative freedom, you can step out of your career mode and enjoy a free mode. This will allow you to start to craft homes and terrains that appeal to you. Developers seem to be going the extra mile here with how nuanced you can get with building up your homes. Go about designing walls, doors, windows, balconies, and room layouts, budgeting your constructions, and, of course, decorating the inside of your home.
#16 Lushfoil Photography Sim

Lushfoil Photography Sim is quite a stunning game. After all, with a name like that, you would expect the game to visually pop. If you’re into photography, then this might be a title worth checking out. The game was developed around players exploring incredible environments and snapping photos with a DSLR camera.
As with a real DSLR camera, you’ll have various settings to adjust your camera and snap the perfect shot. It’s all about taking photos in this game, whether you’re in the lush forests looking down towards a shoreline or in the wintery mountains with light bursting through bits of fog. It might be a bit of a niche game for some, but even if you’re not an avid photographer, Lushfoil Photography Sim visuals alone might entice you to pick it up when it drops this year.
#15 WWE 2K25

Another year and another WWE 2K game is here. WWE 2K25 is the latest installment of the beloved wrestling simulation series. Players will get to step into the ring and attempt to take out the competition. That said, the competition is quite packed with over 300 hundred wrestlers across the several generations the WWE has been around. So whether you like to step into the ring with an iconic legend from yesteryear or a new up-and-comer today, there are plenty of options here for you.
Likewise, if you are familiar with the WWE 2K games, you likely know they each tend to focus on one particular wrestler or even faction. With this installment, the focus is on the Bloodline dynasty as you relive the iconic matches of the Bloodline throughout the years.
#14 Streamer Life Simulator 2

Ready to quit your day job and become a full-time streamer? If not, then here’s a game to let you live out that fantasy. Players will create their own streamer and attempt to strike it big. You’ll play games, try and follow trends, interact with your viewers, and make the necessary upgrades from gear to your home. It’s all an effort to strike it big and become a familiar name.
Of course, be careful, as not every attempt will bring you views and money. If you’re caught with bot viewers or participating in other shady practices, your channel could be banned. So it’s best to keep your nose clean!
#13 Falling Frontier

For those looking for a spacefaring simulator to have fun in, Falling Frontier might be one to keep an eye on.
In it, you’re part of a group from Earth that has entered a new star system and set up shop. The problem is that there are rogue elements from Earth that have also entered the system and want to make it theirs.
The struggle is on to build up your fleets, expand your defenses, and set up outposts so you can truly make this a new home for humanity.
Strategy is paramount here, so do things the right way, or else suffer the consequences!
#12 Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time

As we’ve proven by now, not all “simulator” games need to have a “realistic” setting for you to have fun in; sometimes, you just need to live a life in a certain world and see where it takes you! Nothing wrong with that, right?
In Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time, you’ll find yourself on a ruined island, and the only way to save it is to both build it up in the present and travel to the past to fix it. The more you travel back and forth, the more your options open up!
Plus, characters from past entries will pay you a visit! So if you’ve been looking for the next entry in the series, here it is!
#11 Roman Empire Wars

The Roman Empire remains one of the greatest and most powerful nations to ever gather in the world. Many video games have been built in their honor so people could “feel the power” of the Roman Legions. Our next game, Roman Empire Wars, is one such title.
In it, you’ll become the next Emperor of Rome! With you in charge, you’ll need to muster your armies and take on the other nations rising against you. With each victory, you’ll expand your land, lay claim to your greatness, and showcase why Rome isn’t meant to be trifled with.
Will you bring great glory to Rome, Emperor?
#10 Noble’s Life: Kingdom Reborn

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a noble and have a realm to call your own, Noble’s Life: Kingdom Reborn is the title to get that feeling from.
The title puts you as a noble who has lost their lands during a war. Through your guiding hand, you’ll help your loyal subjects rebuild and make it better than ever before!
Truly, the thrust of this game is to put you in command and show you how every decision you make will affect everything around you. What kind of ruler will you be? One who is kind? Or will you be one that is cruel?
#9 Polyaris

Imagine a situation where you are pretty much alone in a frozen part of the world doing scientific ventures when, all of a sudden, a war breaks out, and the world basically comes to an end. The people you KNEW that were on the other side of this icy veil aren’t coming to help you. So, now, you must survive all on your own.
That’s what this title is all about. You’ll wander around this snowy land and attempt to stay warm, get all the supplies you need, and attempt to figure out what led to the world’s destruction. Even when you figure that answer out, what are you going to do about it?
#8 Prison Architect 2

It’s fair to say that you don’t all think about prison that much. However, have you ever wondered what it would be like to build and RUN a prison? If you think you’re up to that challenge, you’ll want to try out Prison Architect 2. The game is exactly what it sounds like. You’ll start off with building a prison, then slowly work to grow and improve it so that the inmates are fairly taken care of, while also not getting the opportunity to escape.
Yes, the escapes that the inmates plan are a key part of the game. They want to get out, and you have to ensure they don’t.
#7 Wanderstop

How about we show you a simulation game with a bit of a twist? In Wanderstop, you’ll run a tea shop in the middle of a forest. Don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of customers. In fact, part of the challenge is creating all the different kinds of teas that are perfectly suited for these new customers.
The twist is who runs the store: Alta. She is a former fighter who ends up running this place, and she hates it. She doesn’t want to be here, and yet, she might find, with your help, that this is the perfect place for her. It just might take a little time.
#6 Hotel Galactic

Who here thinks that they have what it takes to run a hotel? Okay, now, who here has what it takes to run an intergalactic hotel? If you want to give the latter a shot, try out Hotel Galactic! This is a special hotel simulator with a Studio Ghibli-style twist.
You’ll be given a hotel that isn’t in the best of shape and then be asked to fix it up! That shouldn’t be too hard, right? You’ll work to not only build up the hotel but ensure it runs smoothly, that you have the right staff for it, and that your customers are treated properly. Again, that shouldn’t be too hard, right…?
#5 Copa City

There’s a lot of effort that goes into bringing a global sports event into a city that isn’t naturally ready for it. If you don’t believe us, then you can take a stab at doing it yourself with Copa City! In the game, you’ll prepare for a large-scale soccer event, as in “world soccer,” and then attempt to get the city in question ready for all that comes with it.
That means making sure that the businesses are ready for it, that there are places for the games to be played, for people to get everything they could possibly want from the event, and more!
Still seem simple now?
#4 Ascent of Ashes

In a true post-apocalyptic situation, the best way for a person to survive is to become part of a group and work with others to build up their situation and see what comes from it. In Ascent of Ashes, you’ll be a colony leader and have to help the group you’re with to restart life as they know it.
You’ll start by building a base and then working to grow crops and get other important supplies to help the others survive.
However, you’ll also have to work hard to protect them from outsiders. Each survivor you have is special, and when they are injured or die, your group will suffer.
#3 Wreckfest 2

Not all simulation games are created equal, and we’d be lying if we didn’t say that Wreckfest 2 might be the coolest out of the entire bunch we’ve talked about so far. The game isn’t just a racing game, the team behind it developed a special physics engine so that you could accurately see and witness what happens when cars hit each other, or other objects, in certain ways.
Sure, you can still do races, and you’ll want to try and win them. But we also feel that you’re going to want to experience all the different ways that things can crash, and admire the beauty of it all.
#2 Frontier Governor

One of the cooler elements of simulation titles is that they sometimes put you in various regions or points of history and attempt to make you work with “what you have” to see what comes from it. In Frontier Governor, you’ll become part of Korean history during the 15th century. You’ll be given the job of a governor and sent to a rather harsh and rough environment in an attempt to build it up and extend the dynasty.
You’ll have to take care of multiple “grades” of land. So, start simple, build your way upward, and see just how big you can make these places.
#1 Medic: Pacific War

When it comes to war titles, they often put you as a soldier or leader and have you carry out “battle plans” that have you trying to take out the enemy or their strongholds. But, in Medic: Pacific War, the task is a bit different. Your job is not to take lives but to save them. You are a medic, and your job is to get to the battlefield, save as many lives as you can, and help ensure, in your own way, that victory happens for your side.
With requests for aid coming from multiple people, you’ll need to work fast to save as many people as possible.