The Top Simulator Games of All Time

The Top Simulator Games of All Time
Figure 1: Top Simulator Games

Not everyone is a fan of simulator games but those who are, know they are in for an adventure of a lifetime. Although sim gaming is not a widely known gaming genre, it sure does have an extremely loyal base of players.

Simulation games are loved because they allow players to step into the roles and scenarios that mimic real-life activities. Whether it’s managing a bustling city, piloting an airplane, or even tending to a farm; sim games offer a creative blend of relaxation, creativity, and challenge which also translates to real-world problem-solving, strategic planning, and even time management skills.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top simulator games of all time. So if you’re a fan of the genre, this list will keep you invested for endless hours of fun and engagement. Let’s dive in!

1. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

Figure 2: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Cover Art

Microsoft Flight Simulator
 series is a legendary name in the world of simulation games and stands as one of the longest-running video game franchises. Its journey began in 1982, and while the original may feel like a relic of the past, the series has evolved dramatically. In particular, recent entries have set new benchmarks with their breathtaking visuals and lifelike flight controls.

In particular, the Flight Simulator 2024 which was released on November 19, 2024, has taken the classic sim flight experience up to a whole new level. It offers a wide variety of aircraft, ranging from light planes to massive commercial jets. In the game, players can fly through the skies, navigate challenging weather conditions, explore the world from above, and even participate in multiplayer modes, where they fly alongside their friends or compete in PvP tournaments.

If this is your first time experiencing a flight sim game, we highly recommend you start with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, the best simulation game in the sim flight category!

2. The Sims 4

Figure 3: The Sims 4 Cover Art

Next on our list of the top simulator games is The Sims 4. With over 200 million copies sold, The Sims is one of the best-selling video game franchises of all time. It is a series of single-player life simulation games that was first launched back in 2000. Since then, the series has expanded with numerous sequels and add-ons.

The latest entry, The Sims 4, was released on September 2, 2014, and continues to thrive today owing to regular expansions that keep players engaged. To date, it has received over 60 expansions, game packs, and kits; which has helped keep the game alive and players wanting for more.

In The Sims 4, players create and control Sims. These are virtual people with unique personalities and lives. From building dream homes to shaping careers and relationships, The Sims 4 offers an open-ended sandbox experience where players tend to the needs of their sims, develop skills, as well as indulge in crafting complex social dynamics.

3. iRacing

Figure 4: iRacing Cover Art

Another popular simulator game is iRacing, a premier online sim racing game that first debuted in the year 2008. As of today, it offers one of the most realistic and authentic driving experiences across all sim racing games. Unlike traditional racing games, iRacing operates on a subscription-based model with which you get access to 23 cars and 29 tracks. Beyond this, the game features a staggering total of more than 150 highly coveted racecars and 100+ millimeter-precision laser-scanned tracks.

In addition to the single-player mode, iRacing also features a highly competitive multiplayer mode. So much so, that it has its own dedicated eSports league such as the eNASCAR Coca-Cola iRacing Series. As such, iRacing is widely used in eSports and professional training. Players compete in live PvP races, participate in global tournaments, and even test their skills in organized leagues.

Although the sim racing game supports sim racing hardware, such as steering wheels and pedal systems, it is also accessible with traditional gamepads.

4. X-Plane 12

Figure 5: X-Plane 12 Cover Art

X-Plane
 is a highly acclaimed flight simulator known for its exceptional realism and detailed aircraft modelling. Developed by Laminar Research, X-Plane first launched in the mid-1990s and has since evolved into a fan-favourite among both aviation enthusiasts and professional pilots alike.

The latest version, X-Plane 12, has taken the iconic X-Plane simulation experience to new heights with added improvements like Photometric Lighting, a 3D Weather Engine, Volumetric Clouds, Seasons and Ultra-Realistic Flight Dynamics to name a few. What sets X-Plane apart is its groundbreaking use of blade-element theory which ensures precise aerodynamics for every aircraft in real time. Players can choose from a wide range of planes, from small private jets to commercial airliners, and explore a richly detailed world. The flight simulator also supports a vast library of user-created content, allowing customization and expansion.

What’s more, is that X-Plane also supports multiplayer modes for shared flights and competitive play. Compatible with hardware setups like flight yokes and rudder pedals, it’s a fantastic option for both casual players and serious pilots.

5. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Figure 6: Animal Crossing: New Horizons Cover Art

Released on March 20, 2020, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the fifth entry in the classic Animal Crossing series and is easily one of the top simulator games of all time. Upon launch, this life simulator became an instant global phenomenon and has sold over 40 million copies to date.

Set on a deserted island, the sim game has players create and personalise their own paradise by crafting, building, and designing homes and landscapes. The gameplay revolves around collecting resources, trading with adorable anthropomorphic animal villagers, and participating in seasonal events.

With no fixed objectives, New Horizons provides a relaxing sandbox experience, offering players a delightful escape into its vibrant world. There have also been a couple of expansions for this social life simulator game, such as the Happy Home Paradise DLC, and regular seasonal updates, keeping the experience fresh.

6. Gran Turismo 7

Figure 7: Gran Turismo 7 Cover Art

Continuing with the flow, the next best simulation game on our list is no other than the iconic Gran Turismo series. It was developed by Polyphony Digital back in 1997 when the first ever Gran Turismo driving simulator game was released. This driving simulator is renowned for its hyper-realistic driving mechanics and stunning visuals which has successfully captivated millions of racing enthusiasts worldwide.

Gran Turismo 7 is the latest instalment in the lineup and was released in March 2022 for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. It features a stunning roster of over 400 cars and 90+ tracks, including real-world and fictional circuits. The game emphasizes authenticity, featuring dynamic weather systems and detailed vehicle physics that replicate real-world driving experiences.

In Gran Turismo 7, players can tune their vehicles, master driving techniques, and compete across a variety of modes, including a robust PvP system. The Gran Turismo series is also a cornerstone of eSports, hosting high-stakes tournaments like the Olympic Esports Series 2023. Regular updates and DLCs continue to expand the roster of cars and tracks, ensuring endless challenges for fans.

7. DCS World

Figure 8: DCS World Cover Art

Digital Combat Simulator World
, DCS World for short, is a high-fidelity combat flight simulator developed by Eagle Dynamics. Widely acclaimed for its realism and depth, it allows players to experience military aviation like never before by letting players experience modern and historical aerial warfare with an unparalleled level of detail.
The game features an extensive roster of aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, helicopters, and transport planes. With over 40 meticulously modeled aircraft, players can choose from legendary planes like the F/A-18 Hornet or the A-10 Warthog, each offering authentic flight mechanics and cockpit interactions.

Gameplay combines single-player missions with robust multiplayer options, where players engage in dynamic PvP dogfights and cooperative campaigns. For competitive players, tournaments such as the 2023 DCS World SATAL showcase elite-level aerial combat skills.

DCS World is free to play, with additional aircraft and maps available for purchase. Whether soaring solo or competing against others, the game offers an unmatched combat aviation experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

8. Truck Simulator Series

Figure 9: Euro Truck Simulator 2 Cover Art

As we now draw closer to the conclusion, here’s yet another popular simulator game but relatively niche in the genre: the Truck Simulator series consisting of Euro, American, UK, and German truck simulators. Developed by SCS Software, these sim games let players take on the role of professional truck drivers.

In these games, players drive a variety of trucks, delivering goods across cities, highways, and scenic routes. Vehicles range from classic rigs to modern models, each with detailed interiors and realistic driving physics. Players manage their own trucking business, from choosing contracts to upgrading their fleet.

While Euro Truck Simulator covers Europe with diverse environments and cultures, American Truck Simulator focuses on the vast roads of the U.S., offering iconic landmarks. UK Truck Simulator emphasizes British roads, while German Truck Simulator highlights Germany's robust transport network. Together, these games provide a unique mix of exploration and strategic gameplay for fans of simulation.

To Wrap It Up

Simulation games offer endless opportunities to explore, create, and challenge yourself in incredibly realistic virtual worlds. From flying high in Microsoft Flight Simulator to managing life in The Sims, these games cater to every kind of player. Moreover, these top simulator games not only entertain but also provide players with a chance to hone skills and explore their passions in virtual settings.

What do you think? Which one will you try first? Let us know your thoughts!

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