Most Accurate Simulation Games

Some simulation games focus on fun and simplistic gameplay. Others only partially simulate a scenario. Yet there are some games that take a simulation to its extremes, intending that the game is as accurate a representation of real life as possible.

War and combat simulations often aim to be realistic, either in the gameplay, or, for example. Other simulation games simulate scientific scenarios, such as physics. And yet others aim to put the player in control of an accurately simulated vehicle or aircraft. What all of the best simulation games have in common, is a deep and detailed recreation of a real-world situation.

Realistic Player Stats

Football Manager 2024 is the latest iteration of the hugely successful Football Manager franchise. The game has always been notable because of its detailed representation of all aspects of managing a football team. The aim is for the team manager to keep their job across multiple seasons, by achieving wins.

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Even though simulation games tend to emulate real-life experiences, they can be fun to play, especially the ones with a co-op mode.

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Players have to scout new players, train current players, select players to make up their team, and negotiate contracts among other features. The depth of the simulation and the huge database of players and teams the game features, make it one of the most accurate simulations around.

7 SnowRunner

Offroad Driving Simulator

SnowRunner is an offroad driving simulation game with a significant twist. The game presents a number of different landscapes that the player must learn how to traverse safely. This includes snowbound regions, dirt roads, parts of the map that have been flooded, and other types of hazardous terrain.

The player has to choose the right vehicle to make the journey, and plan the right route. Some challenges involve moving sensitive cargo, and other challenges. The well-thought-out offroad driving mechanics and the severe impact that the terrain has on the player, make this a great simulation game.

6 Euro Truck Simulator 2

Trucking Across Europe

The second driving simulation game on this list is Euro Truck Simulator 2. This game has something of a cult following, allowing players to get a feel of how it is to be a long-distance truck driver on Europe’s highways.

The road network is detailed, with fully simulated traffic patterns that are impacted by road conditions such as the weather. The player has to manage their vehicle, maintain it, and meet delivery schedules on time. The game does a great job of simulating logistics challenges from the cab of a truck.

5 Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

A Benchmark Release

• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S
• Released: 2020 (PC) 2021 (Xbox)
• Developer: Asobo Studio
• Genre: Flight simulator

The 2020 release of Microsoft Flight Simulator saw a milestone update to this veritable franchise. On launch, it was the most accurate and detailed representation of aviation ever. Based on map data from the real world, the player is free to fly anywhere in the world.

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Best 2D Simulation Games

Simulation meets 2D in our latest list.

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The game can be tackled by casual players but is also comprehensive enough to satisfy experienced pilots as well. The game has a profusion of detailed aircraft simulations, from light aircraft to huge commercial jets. The flight mechanics are entirely accurate as well.

4 Kerbal Space Program

Incredible Physics Simulation

As simulation games go, Kerbal Space Program is a bit of an oddity. Where most simulation games opt for detailed, accurate graphics, this game does things differently. Kernels are cute, cartoonlike entities, who are more than a little ridiculous at times.

However, behind this comical representation lays an incredibly detailed physics simulation. The player has to help the Kerbels get into space, and this involves designing rockets that can break out of the gravity well, which is a huge challenge, one that humankind has spent tens of billions of dollars achieving in the real world. With realistic orbital mechanics, getting the Kerbels back home again is a challenge all of its own, as well.

3 Silent Hunter 5: Battle of the Atlantic

Detailed Submarine Simulation

• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
• Released: 2010
• Developer: Ubisoft Bucharest
• Genre: Simulator

Silent Hunter 5 puts the player in control of a submarine during World War 2. This is not so much a sub-piloting simulator as it is a simulation of captaining a submarine. The player must manage their crew, ensuring good morale, for example.

However, in combat scenarios, the player is responsible for navigation and plotting a course, taking steps to avoid being detected by the enemy, and taking aggressive action against mission targets using torpedoes. Overall, this is a great, holistically correct naval simulation game.

2 Factorio

Logistics And Manufacturing Simulation

The only 2D simulation game on this list is Factorio. However, despite the limited graphics, it takes a spot near the top of this list for its depth and complexity. In this game, players are responsible for setting up complex production chains to produce goods.

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Best Factory Simulation Games on Steam

For those that want a rewarding simulation experience, the Factory Sim is a beloved niche within the genre.

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As part of this simulation, the player must overcome engineering challenges, and ensure that production chains are efficient, and do not run out of needed resources. For players who enjoy intellectual and puzzle-solving challenges, the simulated industrial processes in Factorio will keep them busy for many hours.

1 Arma 3

Intense Battlefield Simulation

Arma 3 is a first-person, military battlefield simulation game that goes all out to be as real as it can be. This is a multiplayer, team-based game, with opposing teams competing to complete map objectives.

The large-scale battles involve players using authentically simulated weapons and vehicles, and require players to have an understanding of modern battlefield tactics. Arma 3 is such an accurate simulation, that it has actually been used for military training in the past. For players looking for the ultimate realistic battlefield experience, Arma 3 is the go-to game.

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The Best Free Simulation Games On Steam

Simulation games range from relaxing life sims to high-stakes war games. Luckily, Steam’s free offerings span all the genre has to offer.