We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC life simulation games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of life simulation games.
So, if you’re a PC gamer and love life simulation games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#25. The Sims: House Party
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
House Party is not about work; it focuses on the joy of throwing parties that can help your sims maintain relationships while balancing their careers.
With new items and fixtures, you can now throw elaborate dinners, dances, and pool parties, adding more excitement to the game.
The expansion also introduces additional neighborhoods, expanding the possibilities for creating diverse communities.
#24. The Sims 2: Nightlife
- Release Data: Maxis/EA Games, 2005
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Nightlife introduces a wealth of new content for you to delve into, expanding your gameplay experience and offering dedicated dating activities for your sims.
But it’s worth noting that some lingering issues, like lengthy load times, remain present.
Nevertheless, if you’re seeking to inject more excitement into your sims’ lives, Nightlife is a great choice.
#23. The Sims 2: FreeTime
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2008
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
FreeTime stands out as one of the most notable expansions for The Sims 2, potentially rivaling Seasons due to its impressive array of new content.
And although the interface may feel slightly crowded at first, it doesn’t deter players from enjoying the expansion.
So, if you own The Sims 2, regardless of your other expansions, acquiring FreeTime is highly recommended.
#22. The Sims 2: Pets
- Release Data: Maxis/EA Games, 2006
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims 2: Pets is a delightful and thrilling expansion pack that introduces a wide range of curious critters and lovable pets.
And while it can be challenging to juggle all the activities available to your Sims, you’ll soon become adept at managing their schedules and responsibilities.
#21. The Sims: Superstar
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Just like the previous expansion packs, Superstar doesn’t aim to address the original game’s flaws.
Instead, it introduces a plethora of captivating and challenging new features that are sure to engage any fan of The Sims for hours on end.
With Superstar, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of fame and fortune, exploring intriguing opportunities and facing thrilling challenges.
#20. The Sims 2 Seasons
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2007
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
This expansion pack introduces a well-balanced gameplay experience, providing your Sims with the opportunity to indulge in activities such as fishing and gardening, allowing them to relax and embrace the wonders of the great outdoors.
If you’re a devoted Sims player who doesn’t mind this slight drawback, it is recommended adding the Seasons expansion pack to your collection.
#19. The Sims 3 Seasons
- Release Data: The Sims Studio/Electronic Arts, 2012
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims 3 Seasons is a remarkable expansion pack that brings a multitude of enhancements and fresh content to the game.
With the addition of four distinct seasons and a range of weather conditions, the gameplay becomes more dynamic and immersive, catering to both devoted Sims players and those new to the series.
#18. The Sims: Vacation
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Vacation introduces customizable resort areas reminiscent of Hot Date‘s downtown and incorporates family activities similar to House Party‘s party games.
These expansions inject new vitality into the original game, breathing fresh life into the Sims experience.
If you already enjoy playing The Sims, you’ll find additional enjoyment in Vacation, especially if you have Hot Date and House Party as well.
#17. Bridge Constructor Portal
- Release Data: ClockStone Software/Headup Games, 2017
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Career
Bridge Constructor Portal may not replicate the unique experience of the original Portal game, and that is not its intention.
However, it does offer a similar level of enjoyment when considering the overall gameplay.
It provides a fun and engaging experience, particularly if you’re seeking a game that you can casually play for short periods to pass the time.
#16. The Sims: Livin’ Large
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2000
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
For dedicated fans of The Sims, The Sims: Livin’ Large is a must-have expansion pack.
It caters to their enthusiasm and offers new content to explore.
However, players who prefer a more serious and realistic approach to their Sims may not fully embrace the inclusion of supernatural elements like genies and personality-altering chemistry sets.
#15. The Sims: Makin’ Magic
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2003
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Similar to its predecessors, Makin’ Magic offers a plethora of intriguing additions to the original game, but it takes it a step further by providing even more content.
If you’re undecided about it and the unconventional setting doesn’t deter you, Makin’ Magic offers a wealth of captivating features to keep you and your virtual characters entertained.
#14. Viva Pinata
- Release Data: Climax Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 2007
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Being different from the typical war or post-apocalyptic games, this game offers a serene alternative where players can immerse themselves in the art of cultivating pinatas in a virtual garden.
While it may not provide the same level of grandeur as other simulation games, it offers a refreshing change of pace that fans of the genre might find worth exploring.
#13. The Sims 2: Open for Business
- Release Data: Maxis/EA Games, 2006
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
If running your own businesses with your sims doesn’t pique your interest, Open for Business may not be the right expansion pack for you.
However, for those who enjoy exploring new and extensive gameplay dynamics in The Sims 2, this expansion pack is a valuable addition.
#12. The Sims Medieval
- Release Data: The Sims Studio/Electronic Arts, 2011
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Overall, The Sims Medieval successfully accomplishes its intended purpose of attracting more casual fans to the series and providing a more relaxed and standalone Sims experience.
However, for hardcore fans seeking a more intricate and complex gameplay experience, The Sims Medieval may not meet their expectations.
#11. The Sims 3 Supernatural
- Release Data: The Sims Studio/Electronic Arts, 2012
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
It offers a wide range of options that allow players to explore new possibilities, although it may feel slightly overwhelming due to the abundance of choices.
And while it may not introduce as many new gameplay mechanics as some other expansions, the additions it brings are intriguing and thoughtfully implemented.
#10. The Sims: Unleashed
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2002
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
If you have a strong affinity for pets, you will absolutely adore Unleashed and will likely be eager to get it immediately.
This expansion does an excellent job of introducing pets into the world of The Sims.
Similarly, if the idea of having numerous new lots to explore and play with in your neighborhoods excites you, then this is for you.
#9. The Sims 2 University
- Release Data: Maxis/EA Games, 2005
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the college-life theme, The Sims 2 University proves to be a significant success in various aspects.
Players who appreciate the strategic and managerial elements of The Sims 2 will discover a wealth of captivating new options and challenges as they guide their sims towards fame and fortune.
#8. Recettear: An Item Shop’s Tale
- Release Data: EasyGameStation/Carpe Fulgur, 2010
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
This title offers a unique and engaging experience that allows players to fulfill the role of a shopkeeper in a role-playing game, challenging players to navigate dungeons and cater to a demanding customer base in their pursuit of profits.
Overall, it delivers a memorable and entertaining experience, making the process of repaying a loan surprisingly fun.
#7. The Sims 3: World Adventures
- Release Data: The Sims Studio/Electronic Arts, 2009
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims 3: World Adventures is an enjoyable and well-crafted expansion pack that enhances the strengths of the franchise while introducing exciting new content.
So, if you’ve been seeking a new source of inspiration to continue playing The Sims 3, World Adventures is certainly worth considering.
#6. Quadrilateral Cowboy
- Release Data: Blendo Games, 2016
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Career
The game leaves a lasting impression, and once again, Blendo Games excels at delivering a captivating story that relies on the player’s intelligence rather than guiding them through a predetermined, one-size-fits-all experience.
And despite its imperfections, Quadrilateral Cowboy stands out as a title that offers a unique and confident gameplay style, making it a memorable and intellectually engaging adventure.
#5. The Sims: Hot Date
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2001
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The addition of Downtown in this expansion introduces a whole new dimension to the game, offering players countless hours of entertainment as they explore this vibrant area.
It provides a welcome escape from the responsibilities of everyday life for Sims, allowing them to indulge in a carefree playground of excitement and adventure.
#4. The Sims 3
- Release Data: The Sims Studio/Electronic Arts, 2009
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
While it may not have undergone significant changes compared to its predecessors, this does not diminish its overall quality.
On the contrary, the game’s expanded scope and refined gameplay make it one of the most impressive installments in the series.
However, it is important to note that the game may not win over individuals who are not interested in the franchise.
#3. Two Point Hospital
- Release Data: Two Point Studios/Sega, 2018
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Career
The game retains the charm and addictive gameplay of its predecessor while introducing new features and improvements.
Even without the nostalgia factor, Two Point Hospital stands as a solid management game in its own right.
Its engaging mechanics and challenging scenarios make it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and fans of the genre.
#2. The Sims
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2000
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims, one of the most influential PC games of all time, captivated the world with its straightforward yet captivating concept that gave rise to countless hilarious and thrilling situations.
At its core, the game is refreshingly simple: you have the power to create your very own house, designing rooms and embellishing them according to your preferences. That’s it.
#1. The Sims 2
- Release Data: Maxis/Electronic Arts, 2004
- Genre: Simulation » Virtual » Virtual Life
The Sims 2 takes a different approach by removing the concept of a final goal.
Instead, it allows you the freedom to guide your Sims through the various stages of their lives, from childhood to old age.
So, whether you’re unraveling the mysteries of “Strangeville” or designing your own dream home, the game will captivates fans for countless hours of gameplay.
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Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PC life simulation game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!