The Evolution of Simulation Games

Annabelle Shoel
Aug 8, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Nov 3, 2021

More than ever, people are seeking an escape from the chaos of everyday life.

And as a result of this, an abundance of simulation games has flooded the market in the past couple of years, each offering a unique take on the genre – some comedic, some offering a simulation of the overwhelmingly mundane.

So, as we reflect on the offerings within this growing genre, let’s see how more recent games hold up against cult classics.

The Sims franchise (2000 – present)

Publisher: Electronic Arts

The king of all simulation games, The Sims has dominated the market since its first release in 2000 as one of the bestselling video games ever. But what makes it so successful?

The Sims really is pure escapism at its best, as you can live out your dream life and wildest fantasies (woohoo, anyone?)

With its constant growth in DLCs, there’s no sign of the success of the franchise slowing down anytime soon, and for good reason.

Another expansion pack, you say? TAKE MY SIMOLEONS!

Goat Simulator (2014)

Publisher: Coffee Stain Studios

Best described by the legendary Jacksepticeye in his recent revisit to the game, which was one of his most successful playthroughs, there’s ‘no purpose to the game, nothing really to do other than to be a goat and fuck around.’

The absolute ridiculousness of the game, where you’re essentially rewarded for destroying everything, is somewhat cathartic in its silliness – simply put: ‘It’s pure chaos at its best.’

From the initial success of the game came significant expansion: ‘It evolved into so many different levels, so many DLCs, so many different types of Goat Simulator came out from this, and different themes for it – and it was super fun to play’ (Jacksepticeye).

In what other game can you sacrifice humans on a pentagram in a Satanic ritual in order to gain Hellish goat powers?

Hand Simulator (2017) and Hand Simulator Survival (2019)

Publisher: HFM Games

A highly comedic game, Hand Simulator also takes simulation games to the ridiculous, making basic tasks frustratingly and hilariously different. Whether it’s loading guns and throwing grenades in a Mexican standoff, driving in a race or (my personal favourite) defusing a bomb, this game is a recipe for pure entertainment.

Not one to miss out on the latest trends, HFM Games also released Hand Simulator Survival in 2019 as the popularity of survival games also rose, and its equally as enjoyable as its predecessor. With both games playable in multiplayer, there is endless fun to be had here.

Cooking Simulator (2019)

Publisher: Big Cheese Studios

With the longstanding popularity of foody games such as those in the Cooking Mama and Overcooked! franchises, it comes as no surprise that Cooking Simulator entered the market of simulation games.

Based on restoring a fallen restaurant to its former glory, this simulation takes a more serious approach to the genre that allows for escapism into the world of being a restaurateur.

Surgeon Simulator 2 (2020)

Publisher: Bossa Studios

After the success of the original Surgeon Simulator (2013), Bossa Studios brought it back with a bang!

A highly anticipated sequel, Surgeon Simulator 2 combines unreasonable (and humorous) character controls with an extremely compelling storyline

You can rip off and reattach limbs to your heart’s content, all whilst trying to get to the bottom of what’s really going on at this establishment – as put by Markiplier: ‘LORE!’

Character customisation and a multiplayer option add further to the appeal of the game – receiving tiered customisation rewards for each successful surgery. Who doesn’t love a reward for their efforts?

Accident (Car Accident Simulator, 2020)

Publisher: Duality Games

Whilst the previous games have been comedic, this game is a more serious take on the simulation game, and it’s always reassuring when a game states ‘it’s much more fun than it sounds’ in its introduction, right?

This game allows players to take on the role of an accident investigator – rescuing the victims of car crashes and getting to the bottom of how they happened.

Other than the fairly gruesome overall concept and minor details – for example, a Final Destination 2 inspired crash to get you started – the game is a fairly standard simulator that allows you to experience life as an accident investigator, and it is what you make of it!

As we begin 2021, there’s a whole world of simulation games out there for you to try! Whether it’s for a bit of escapism, a laugh with your mates, or experiencing something new, you won’t be disappointed with the sheer amount of options there are.

This article was originally written for and published by cool.girl magazine.