Simulators: Definition and Examples

This section presents a selection of well-known simulator games that have gained great recognition and popularity among players.

“Farming Simulator”

The well-known “Farming Simulator” series has been published annually since its launch in 2008. The game immerses players in the life of a virtual farmer who takes on tasks such as tilling fields, caring for animals and transporting goods. In career mode, players start with a small farm and gradually become successful landowners. The simulation offers an impressively realistic experience, and newer versions support modding and allow the integration of content created by the community.

“Cities: Skylines”

“Cities: Skylines”, developed by Finnish studio ‘Colossal Order’ in 2015, puts players in charge of the development of a city. Players must manage various parameters, including traffic flow, education and environmental conditions, while intelligently connecting residential, commercial and industrial areas. The game will continue to receive downloadable content (DLCs) that expand the gameplay with additional features such as airport management and environmentally conscious additions such as electric cars and green spaces.

“I am Bread”

“I am Bread” offers an unconventional and distinctive simulator experience where players take on the role of a slice of bread. The player controls the bread using four buttons to control each corner of the slice, with the goal of being toasted in each level. The slice must be navigated through a kitchen environment and reach the toaster. If both sides are toasted well, a higher score is awarded, while burns result in points being deducted.

“Goat Simulator”

In “Goat Simulator”, an absurd and humorous simulator released in 2014, players embody a goat that is let loose in an open-world game environment. The aim is to creatively damage the virtual world and collect points for anarchic actions. The goat's tongue serves as a slingshot and contributes to the chaotic and humorous gameplay, in which gas stations explode and NPCs fly into the air.

Simulators include a wide range of games that faithfully recreate various activities. However, some simulators, such as “I am Bread” and “Goat Simulator”, also offer humor and satire in their imaginative approach. Budding gamers and enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the diverse world of simulators and venture into areas that are both familiar and delightfully unconventional.