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25 Best PC Simulation Games of All Time

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Best PC Simulation Games of All Time

We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC simulation games of all time.

With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of simulation games.

So, if you’re a PC gamer and love 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. Star Wars: X-Wing Alliance

Star Wars: X-Wing Alliance
  • Release Data: Totally Games/LucasArts, 1999
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat

While X-Wing Alliance‘s story-driven campaign may leave you wanting more closure, and the grand Battle of Endor may not fully satisfy, it’s worth noting that the final mission is exceptionally unique and well-executed.

All in all, X-Wing Alliance is a highly enjoyable game and serves as a commendable conclusion to the series.

#24. Quadrilateral Cowboy

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.

#23. Crimson Skies

Crimson Skies
  • Release Data: Zipper Interactive/Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

Crimson Skies strikes a good balance with its flight physics, offering realism that adds depth to the gameplay without overwhelming the action.

The game also offers some assistance in aiming, allowing players to focus more on the overall combat strategy rather than precision targeting.

#22. Freelancer

Freelancer
  • Release Data: Digital Anvil/Microsoft Game Studios, 2003
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat

While it may not satisfy fans of the genre seeking deeper complexity, Freelancer‘s simplified gameplay allow players to quickly immerse themselves in freely exploring a vast star system and engaging in looting and combat against enemy factions.

And although some of the original ambitious plans couldn’t be fully realized, the compromised design still results in a well-crafted game.

#21. Allegiance

Allegiance
  • Release Data: Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat

Allegiance stands out as a pioneering online game that embraces cooperative competitive play, a genre that has gained popularity over time.

While offering the thrill of a top-notch space combat simulator with its impressive graphics and diverse spacecraft options, what truly distinguishes Allegiance is its fusion of real-time strategy elements and support roles alongside dogfighting, resulting in a unique experience.

#20. FTL: Faster Than Light

FTL: Faster Than Light
  • Release Data: Subset Games, 2012
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat

In essence, Faster Than Light presents a unique blend of challenging gameplay reminiscent of classic titles, simplistic yet intricate mechanics akin to board games, and an episodic structure found in casual games.

Moreover, FTL immerses players in a perilous journey where survival is a constant struggle, lending a thrilling and captivating quality to each passing day.

#19. The Sims: Hot Date

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.

#18. European Air War

European Air War
  • Release Data: Third Wire/MicroProse, 1998
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

While European Air War may have its share of flaws, such as limited screen resolution, imperfect flight models, and less-than-optimal AI, it manages to deliver an incredibly immersive flight simulation experience.

And despite its imperfections, the game’s various components come together to create a memorable and enjoyable experience that no fan of the genre should overlook.

#17. Independence War

Independence War
  • Release Data: Particle Systems/Ocean, 1998
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Civilian

Independence War stands out as the premier simulation of piloting a large spacecraft, offering a refreshing and original experience in a genre that is becoming increasingly saturated.

And if you’re willing to invest the effort and embrace its unique mechanics, it offers a truly rewarding and distinctive gameplay experience that is well worth the time and dedication.

#16. MiG Alley

MiG Alley
  • Release Data: Rowan Software Ltd./Empire Interactive, 1999
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

Every so often, a simulation emerges that leaves a lasting impression on dedicated flight sim enthusiasts.

MiG Alley has rightfully secured its place among this select group of games, earning the admiration and praise of discerning players who immerse themselves in the world of air combat simulation.

#15. MechWarrior 4: Vengeance

MechWarrior 4: Vengeance
  • Release Data: FASA Studio/Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
  • Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat

This installment serves as an excellent entry point for those who are new to the MechWarrior series, providing an immersive and accessible introduction.

Simultaneously, it offers enough depth and complexity to engage veteran players for countless hours of gameplay.

Overall, MechWarrior 4 strikes a balance that ensures both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts will find immense satisfaction within its expansive universe.

#14. 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.

#13. Two Point Hospital

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.

#12. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight
  • Release Data: Microsoft Game Studios, 2003
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Civilian

The game’s improvements to the flight school and interface make it more accessible to newcomers who may have been intimidated by the steep learning curve of previous titles.

So, whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the genre, Flight Simulator 2004 is a solid investment that offers a rewarding and enjoyable flight simulation experience.

#11. IL-2 Sturmovik: Forgotten Battles

IL-2 Sturmovik: Forgotten Battles
  • Release Data: 1C Entertainment/Ubisoft, 2003
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

While it may not create the same monumental impact as the original, Forgotten Battles is undeniably a commendable successor, despite its flaws.

Fans of the series and aviation enthusiasts alike will find much to appreciate in this immersive and captivating experience.

#10. Steel Beasts

Steel Beasts
  • Release Data: eSim Games/Shrapnel Games, 2000
  • Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat

The competitive nature of multiplayer gameplay, reminiscent of the excitement found in flight simulations, seamlessly translates to the world of ground-based armored warfare in Steel Beasts.

Whether commanding mighty tanks or controlling other mechanized beasts, the multiplayer aspect of the game offers an unparalleled experience that truly pushes players to their limits.

#9. Enemy Engaged: RAH-66 Comanche Versus Ka-52 Hokum

Enemy Engaged: RAH-66 Comanche Versus Ka-52 Hokum
  • Release Data: Razorworks/Empire Interactive, 2000
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Civilian

The game delivers an abundance of excitement, tension, and drama, providing players with a thrilling and fun-filled experience.

So, whether you’re a seasoned sim fanatic or a newbie seeking an adrenaline-pumping entertainment, it offers a sustained jolt of enjoyment that is sure to captivate and satisfy.

#8. F/A-18

F/A-18
  • Release Data: Jane’s Combat Simulations/Electronic Arts, 1999
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

Jane’s F/A-18 is a game that stands out by offering a complete and satisfying experience for the players rather than a specific component.

And while it may require some time to acclimate to, this game will undoubtedly captivate you, leaving you utterly hooked.

#7. Flight Unlimited III

Flight Unlimited III
  • Release Data: Looking Glass Studios/Electronic Arts, 1999
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Civilian

Flight Unlimited III successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, making it a worthy successor to the classic series.

And while other flight simulators may excel in certain areas like cockpit realism or the number of available airports, Flight Unlimited III distinguishes itself through its exceptional environmental and modeling detail.

#6. Silent Hunter III

Silent Hunter III
  • Release Data: Ubisoft, 2005
  • Genre: Simulation » Marine » Combat

This simulation strikes a perfect balance between realistic simulation mechanics and thrilling gameplay.

As a player, you truly feel like a submarine captain, commanding a formidable yet vulnerable U-boat.

Moreover, the game not only provides entertainment but also serves as a thought-provoking history lesson, immersing you in the larger context of a significant conflict.

#5. Battlezone (1998)

Battlezone (1998)
  • Release Data: Activision, 1998
  • Genre: Simulation » Vehicle » Combat

It flawlessly combines two gaming genres in a way that hasn’t been seen in many other games.

Even though it’s an old game from 1998, it will be a significant challenge for any developer to create an action/strategy game that surpasses the excellence of Battlezone.

#4. The Sims

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.

#3. IL-2 Sturmovik

IL-2 Sturmovik
  • Release Data: 1C Entertainment/Blue Byte, 2001
  • Genre: Simulation » Flight » Combat

IL-2 Sturmovik offers a wealth of content, ranging from an engaging single-player campaign to a sandbox mission builder that grants you endless possibilities.

Moreover, its gameplay strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and enjoyment, all set against the backdrop of one of the most captivating periods in history.

#2. The Sims 2

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.

#1. FreeSpace 2

FreeSpace 2
  • Release Data: Volition Inc./Interplay, 1999
  • Genre: Simulation » Space » Combat

FreeSpace 2 is a game that redefines the space simulation genre, taking it to new heights.

In the game, you have the opportunity to assume multiple roles within the engaging storyline, ranging from engaging in intense dogfights to safeguarding civilian lives.

For space simulation enthusiasts, FreeSpace 2 is an absolute must-have.


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See also: Best Gaming Chairs & Best Gaming Room Accessories

Are your favorite games on the list?

Deciding which PC simulation game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!

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Hi, I'm R, and I've been playing video games since I was a kid. My first console was the original PlayStation (the gray one) and I spent countless hours playing Crash Bandicoot series and Spyro series. My second console was the PS2 Fat, and I completed all of the GTA series 100%.


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