Unveiling the Top Simulation Games of 2025: Your Essential Gaming Guide

1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Okay, so Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. This one really caught people by surprise, and honestly, for good reason. It’s a game that manages to mix this really personal story about dealing with loss with this epic quest to, you know, save the world from a creeping darkness. The way it weaves these two threads together is pretty special. You’ve got these incredibly emotional performances, especially from Jennifer English as Maelle, that just pull you right in.

But it’s not all heavy stuff. The combat system is where things get really interesting. It’s this cool blend of turn-based strategy and real-time parries. So, you’re thinking about your moves, but you also have to react fast. It makes the fights feel dynamic and challenging. Plus, the art direction is stunning, and the music? Absolutely slaps. It’s the kind of game that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto something truly unique.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

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• Narrative Depth: Explores themes of grief, art, and perseverance.
• Innovative Combat: Combines turn-based planning with real-time action.
• Stunning Presentation: Features top-tier art direction and a memorable soundtrack.
• Memorable Characters: Gestrals and companions add a lot of personality.

2. Hades 2

Okay, so Supergiant Games is back with Hades 2, and honestly, it feels like they just keep hitting it out of the park. It’s kind of wild to think they could follow up the first Hades, which was already such a big deal, but they’ve managed to do it. This isn’t just more of the same, though. They’ve introduced Melinoe as the new protagonist, and her story is really interesting. You’re still getting that amazing roguelike action, the kind where you just want to do ‘one more run’ even when you know you should probably stop playing. The gods are back, with all their family drama that feels both epic and strangely relatable, like a chaotic holiday gathering.

What really stands out this time is how they’ve woven music into the game. There are these moments, like encountering a boss that breaks into a full-on rock opera, that just stick with you. It’s not just background noise; it’s part of the experience. Plus, they’ve added some neat new gameplay mechanics, like a spell system that lets you mess with enemies in cool ways, adding another layer to the already great combat.

Here’s a quick look at what makes Hades 2 special:

• Narrative Depth: The story continues to be a major draw, with compelling characters and a plot that unfolds with each run.
• Engaging Combat: Fast-paced action with new abilities and a familiar, yet refined, feel.
• Musical Moments: Unexpected and memorable musical sequences that enhance the atmosphere.
• Player Recognition: The game seems to notice your progress and choices, making each playthrough feel more personal.

It’s the kind of game that respects your time and effort, even after dozens, or let’s be honest, hundreds of attempts. They’ve managed to capture that magic again, making it feel both familiar and fresh. Hades 2 is a masterclass in how to build upon a beloved formula without losing the original’s soul.

3. Silent Hill F

Konami’s psychological horror series is back with Silent Hill F, and it’s a pretty wild departure from what fans might expect. This time around, we’re following a high school student named Hinako Shimizu through a story that feels quite different from the usual Silent Hill fare. The game takes some big swings, changing up the setting, characters, and even how combat works.

Instead of the familiar fog-covered town, Silent Hill F throws players into a new, unsettling environment. Hinako, like other protagonists in the series, isn’t exactly a seasoned fighter. However, the developers have opted for a more involved combat system, drawing inspiration from games like Dark Souls. This choice is definitely a talking point, and while it might divide some players, it certainly makes Silent Hill F stand out.

Here’s a quick look at some of the changes:

• Setting: A departure from the typical Silent Hill town.
• Protagonist: A young high school student, Hinako Shimizu.
• Combat: More complex, inspired by action RPGs.
• Storytelling: Key plot points might require multiple playthroughs to fully grasp.

It seems like Silent Hill F aims to shake things up, offering a fresh, albeit potentially divisive, experience for fans of the franchise. It’s imperfect, sure, but that’s often part of the charm with Silent Hill, isn’t it?

4. Hollow Knight: Silksong

Alright, let’s talk about Hollow Knight: Silksong. After what feels like forever, this game is finally here, and honestly, it’s a big deal for fans of the original. Team Cherry has been working on this for ages, and the hype has been pretty wild. It’s not just a simple rehash either; they’ve really expanded on what made the first Hollow Knight so good.

You play as Hornet, the protector from the first game, and you’re thrown into this new kingdom called Pharloom. It’s a fallen place, and your goal is to climb up to the Citadel. The story seems to dig into some pretty deep lore about this world, with different factions and beliefs all tied together. It feels like everything in the game, from the way the levels are designed to the enemies you fight and how Hornet moves, all connects back to these themes. It’s pretty cool how they’ve managed to make the world feel so connected.

The gameplay itself is still that tough-but-fair action-platforming we loved, but with Hornet, things feel a bit different. She’s faster, more agile, and has a whole new set of moves. Expect to die a lot, but also expect to feel really rewarded when you finally beat that boss or get past that tricky section. The art style is still gorgeous, with those hand-drawn backgrounds that just pull you into the world. It’s a massive game, too, with tons of areas to explore, secrets to find, and challenges to overcome. Seriously, if you liked the first Hollow Knight, this is a must-play. It feels like a true evolution of the series.

5. Elden Ring Nightreign

Okay, so Elden Ring Nightreign. When this was first announced, I think a lot of us were scratching our heads. Taking the notoriously tough, lore-heavy Elden Ring and mashing it up with something like Fortnite? It sounded like a recipe for disaster, honestly. For a while there, it felt like that skepticism might be right. The basic idea is you explore these randomly generated islands, fight bosses to get stronger, and then take on a big bad at the end. It was fun, sure, but it felt a bit… shallow. Not enough multiplayer options, not enough enemy variety, and the islands themselves were kind of samey.

But then came The Forsaken Hollows DLC, and wow, did it change things. It feels like FromSoftware finally figured out what they were going for. Suddenly, it’s this multiplayer romp that captures that Elden Ring vibe but in a totally different way. Every run feels fresh because the boss fights are different, and there are secrets everywhere. They’ve kept adding stuff too, like weird new classes and even harder boss variations, plus an endless mode for those who really like to punish themselves. It turns out there was a lot more to this game than we initially thought.

It’s not the slow, deliberate RPG we know from the main Elden Ring games. This is a faster-paced experience. You’re sprinting across a map that’s shrinking, trying to level up quickly before facing bosses that will absolutely wreck you if you’re not prepared. It practically demands you team up with two other players. It’s like a theme park version of Elden Ring, and yeah, maybe it misses the point of the original for some folks. But honestly? It still works.

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it tick:

• Core Loop: Explore randomized islands, gather resources, defeat bosses to power up.
• Multiplayer Focus: Designed for cooperative play with up to three players.
• DLC Impact: The Forsaken Hollows DLC significantly improved enemy variety and boss encounters.
• New Content: Features unusual classes, challenging boss twists, and an endless mode.

It condenses that whole Elden Ring atmosphere into something you can play in about 45 minutes. Perfect for getting together with friends for an evening of chaotic fun. If you’re looking for a quick Elden Ring fix with buddies, this is a solid choice.

6. Avowed

Alright, let’s talk about Avowed. This one comes from Obsidian Entertainment, and if you’re familiar with their work, you know they like to make games with some real depth. Avowed drops you into the Living Lands, a place that’s got its own set of problems and a whole lot of political tension. You play as an envoy from the Aedryan Empire, and right off the bat, things get complicated. You’re basically thrown into a situation where you have to make some tough calls that really shape the world around you.

It’s not just about hacking and slashing, though there’s plenty of that. The combat feels pretty good, a mix of spells, ranged attacks, and getting up close and personal. You can even adjust the difficulty by looking at quest markers – three skulls mean you might want to level up a bit first. What really stands out, though, is how the game makes you feel. You’re often met with mistrust and even outright hatred from the people you encounter. It’s a different vibe than your typical hero story where you’re always the good guy.

Here’s a bit of what you can expect:

• Meaningful Choices: Your decisions have weight. Whether you’re settling a small dispute or deciding the fate of a settlement, the game tracks your actions.
• Exploration: The Living Lands are a diverse place, and you’ll get to see a lot of its different societies and landscapes.
• Complex Narrative: Beyond the action, there’s a story about power, belief, and what happens when you’re given a second chance at life, with some philosophical questions thrown in.

It’s a game that wants you to think about the consequences of your actions, even in a fantasy setting. It might not be for everyone, but if you like RPGs where your choices matter and the world feels a bit more grounded in its conflicts, Avowed is definitely worth checking out.

7. Blue Prince

Okay, so let’s talk about Blue Prince. This game is something else. It’s one of those titles that’s really hard to pin down, you know? It’s not quite like anything else out there. You’re exploring this massive, abandoned family home, and the layout… it changes. Every time you open a door, you draft a new room from a few options. It sounds wild, and honestly, it can be pretty confusing at first. The whole house plan resets each day, but the stuff you learn? That sticks with you.

The main goal is to find this mysterious ‘Room 46’ hidden somewhere in the 45-room grid. It sounds simple, but it’s not. You piece things together from notes, books, items you find, and even just stuff in the background. It’s like a giant puzzle box. You really need to pay attention, and I found myself scribbling notes like a mad scientist just to keep track of everything. Plus, you’ve got limited resources each day, so you have to be smart about which rooms you pick.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:

• Exploring a constantly shifting mansion layout.
• Solving intricate puzzles using environmental clues and collected items.
• Managing daily resources to make progress.
• Uncovering a surprisingly deep story through environmental storytelling.

Getting to Room 46 is a big achievement, but that’s just the start. There’s a whole endgame with even tougher riddles that can really test you. Some of the late-game puzzles are seriously tough, and you might find yourself looking up hints. I’ve put over 100 hours into this game and I’m still finding new things. It’s one of those games that really makes you think, and it’s definitely a standout for 2025.

8. Civilization 7

Alright, let’s talk Civilization 7. This one’s a bit of a head-scratcher for some folks, and honestly, I get it. When it first dropped, it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. There were bugs, the interface felt a little clunky, you know the drill. Firaxis, the studio behind Civ, has this whole thing about sequels being a mix of old, improved, and brand new stuff. With Civ 7, some people think they leaned a little too hard on the ‘brand new’ part, maybe trying to keep up with other games in the genre.

But here’s the thing: I actually kind of like it. They managed to fix some long-standing issues, like how games can get a bit out of hand in the late stages. The new age transitions are pretty clever for keeping things balanced. Honestly, if you just look at it for what it is, Civ 7 is a really addictive strategy game that’s easy to sink a ton of hours into. It’s different from the older ones, sure, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It just means there’s room for all of them on your hard drive, offering different experiences.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Familiar Core Gameplay: Build your empire, research technologies, and engage in diplomacy and warfare.
• New Systems: Expect some fresh mechanics that shake up the established formula.
• Improved Late Game: Efforts have been made to address the common issue of late-game snowballing.
• Multi-Platform Release: Available on PC and expected for major consoles.

9. Doom: The Dark Ages

Alright, let’s talk about Doom: The Dark Ages. This one’s a bit of a curveball for the series, and honestly, it took me a minute to get used to it. Instead of just constantly dodging and weaving like in the older games, this time around, you’re really meant to stand your ground. Raising your shield to block or even parry incoming attacks is the name of the game. It’s a big shift, and while I did miss some of the crazy verticality from the last couple of Doom titles, I found myself enjoying the new approach. Mixing in some defensive play with the classic weapon-switching chaos felt pretty good in those massive arenas.

They’ve also opened things up a bit with a more expansive world design. If you’re the type who likes to find every little secret, you’ll have a field day exploring these huge environments for extra challenges and hidden goodies. It’s a nice change of pace from just blasting through linear levels.

However, it’s not all perfect. There are moments where the game slows down for these mech-style demon battles or some awkward flying dragon sequences. Sometimes these sections can go on for a while, and they really break the fast-paced flow that Doom is known for. Despite those few hiccups, though, Doom: The Dark Ages offers a fresh take on a classic shooter that’s definitely worth checking out.

10. Grand Theft Auto 6

Alright, let’s talk about Grand Theft Auto 6. It feels like we’ve been waiting for this one forever, right? Rockstar finally gave us a peek, and it looks like they’re taking us back to Vice City, which is pretty cool if you’re a fan of the older games. The trailer showed off a lot of what you’d expect: crazy car action, a huge open world to mess around in, and that signature GTA humor.

The biggest takeaway from the initial look is the sheer scale and detail they’re aiming for. It seems like they’re really pushing the boundaries with graphics and how alive the world feels. We saw glimpses of new characters, Lucia and her partner, and their story seems to be a big focus this time around. It’s not just about causing chaos anymore; there’s a narrative driving things forward.

Here’s what we’re hoping to see more of:

• A return to the vibrant, sun-drenched atmosphere of Vice City.
• More in-depth character interactions and a compelling storyline.
• The usual sandbox freedom with tons of activities and side missions.
• Continued evolution of the driving and shooting mechanics.

It’s still a ways off, with a 2025 release window, but the anticipation is definitely real. We’ll have to wait and see if it lives up to the hype, but based on what Rockstar has done in the past, it’s a safe bet this is going to be massive.

11. Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Alright, let’s talk about Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Ubisoft Quebec is taking us to feudal Japan this time, and honestly, it’s about time, right? We’ve got two main characters to play as: Naoe, a shinobi ninja, and Yasuke, a historical African samurai. This dual protagonist setup is pretty interesting, offering different perspectives on the same historical period. The game really leans into the stealth and assassination gameplay that Assassin’s Creed is known for, but it also gives you the option to go in loud if that’s more your style.

From what I’ve seen, the world looks gorgeous. They’ve really captured that Japanese aesthetic, from the bustling cities to the serene countryside. It feels like a big, explorable playground, which is what you want from an Assassin’s Creed game.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Dual Protagonists: Play as Naoe the shinobi or Yasuke the samurai, each with unique skills and story arcs.
• Feudal Japan Setting: Explore a beautifully rendered historical Japan, complete with iconic landmarks and environments.
• Flexible Gameplay: Choose between stealthy assassinations or more direct combat approaches.
• New Tools and Abilities: Expect a fresh set of gadgets and combat moves fitting the setting and characters.

It seems like they’re sticking to the formula that works, but adding enough new elements with the setting and characters to keep things fresh. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but sometimes, a really well-made version of a familiar experience is exactly what you need. If you’re looking for a big, immersive adventure with plenty of action and stealth, Shadows looks like it’s going to deliver.

12. Farming Simulator 25

Alright, let’s talk about getting our hands dirty with Farming Simulator 25. If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own farm, this is probably as close as you’re going to get without actually buying a tractor. They’ve really expanded things this year, giving you more ways to play and more places to do it.

This time around, you’re not just stuck in one spot; you can build your farm across three totally different maps: one in North America, another in East Asia, and a third in Central Europe. That’s a lot of land to work with! And when I say a lot, I mean it. You’ve got over 400 machines and tools from more than 150 real-world brands. We’re talking serious equipment here, folks. You can grow all sorts of crops, including rice and spinach, and even raise animals like goats and water buffalo. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. You’ll have to deal with weather events, like hail and those nasty twisters, which can really mess with your crops.

Here’s a quick look at what’s new:

• Three New Maps: Explore diverse landscapes in North America, East Asia, and Central Europe.
• Expanded Livestock: Raise new animals like goats and water buffalo.
• New Crops: Get your hands on growing rice and spinach.
• Over 400 Machines: Access a massive fleet of vehicles and tools from 150+ brands.
• Dynamic Weather: Face challenges from hail, twisters, and other unpredictable conditions.

They’ve also added a bunch of quality-of-life improvements, so hopefully, those little annoyances from past games are gone. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends in multiplayer, it feels like your farm, your rules. It’s a pretty deep experience if you’re into that sort of thing, and honestly, it’s kind of relaxing to just focus on planting, growing, and harvesting. Plus, managing all those machines and keeping an eye on the weather adds a nice layer of strategy.

13. Cities: Skylines II

Alright, let’s talk about Cities: Skylines II. This game is all about building a city from the ground up, and I mean really from the ground up. You’re not just placing buildings; you’re shaping the lives of every single citizen. It’s pretty wild when you think about it.

The simulation depth here is something else. You’ve got to manage traffic, which, let’s be honest, is a nightmare in real life and it feels like it here too, but in a good way. Then there’s the economy, pollution, and even the changing seasons to deal with. Everything you do has a ripple effect, and it’s fascinating to watch your decisions play out.

Here are a few things you’ll be juggling:

• Infrastructure: Roads, power, water, sewage – the basics, but they need constant attention.
• Citizen Happiness: Keeping your people fed, employed, and entertained is key to a growing city.
• Economic Growth: Attracting businesses and managing taxes without driving everyone away is a delicate balance.

It feels like a living, breathing world, and the scale of it can be pretty overwhelming at first. But that’s part of the fun, right? Trying to create that perfect, bustling metropolis. It’s a game that really rewards planning and patience, and honestly, I’ve lost more hours than I care to admit just watching my city evolve.

14. Train Sim World 4

Alright, choo-choo enthusiasts, buckle up because Train Sim World 4 is pulling into the station, and it’s looking like a solid upgrade for anyone who loves the rumble of the rails. This isn’t just about driving a train from point A to point B, though that’s definitely a big part of it. They’ve really focused on giving you more freedom to play how you want.

One of the coolest things they’ve added is the enhanced Creators Club. This means you can really let your imagination run wild designing your own train liveries and even crafting custom scenarios. Then, you can share all your creations with the online community. It’s pretty neat to see what other players come up with.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Diverse Routes: Explore a bunch of different real-world locations, each with its own unique challenges and scenery.
• Free Roam Mode: Pick any train you like and drive it wherever you want, on your own terms. No strict schedules here!
• Creative Tools: Design your own paint jobs for trains and build custom routes and missions.
• Challenge Mode: Test your skills with specific objectives and time limits.

The game really shines when you start tinkering with the creative tools. Whether you’re a seasoned train sim veteran or just curious about the world of locomotives, Train Sim World 4 seems to offer a good mix of realistic simulation and creative freedom. It’s a great way to unwind and just enjoy the journey, literally.

15. Transport Fever 2

Alright, let’s talk about Transport Fever 2. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a map and thinking, ‘I could connect all of this,’ then this game might be for you. It’s all about building up a transportation empire, moving people and goods around. You start small, maybe with a little train line, and before you know it, you’re juggling ships, planes, and trucks.

The real fun is watching your little network grow and seeing cities boom because of it. It’s pretty satisfying to connect a factory to a town and then watch houses pop up nearby. You get to play with over 200 different vehicles, all based on real-world models from different parts of the world. So, you’ve got your European trains, American trucks, and Asian ships, which is a nice touch.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:

• Hauling Cargo: Get raw materials to factories and finished goods to markets. Think lumber to a sawmill, then furniture to a city.
• Moving Passengers: Connect residential areas to workplaces and tourist spots. People need to get around, right?
• Building Infrastructure: Lay down tracks, build roads, set up airports and harbors. This is where the planning comes in.

There are also a bunch of challenges to tackle if you want a specific goal, or you can just jump into free play and build whatever you want. It’s a game that really lets you get lost in the details of logistics and urban development. It’s not a fast-paced game, mind you, but if you like watching systems work and grow, Transport Fever 2 is a solid choice.

16. Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator

Alright, let’s talk about Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator. If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own place, this is probably as close as you’re going to get without actually dealing with health inspectors and angry customers. You get to build your restaurant from the ground up, picking out everything from the fancy espresso machine to the chopping boards. It’s pretty detailed, honestly.

What I really liked was the focus on the food itself. You’re not just ordering stuff; you’re actually prepping ingredients, cooking, and then plating it all up. The game lets you choose from French, Italian, and other international dishes, so there’s a good variety to play around with. The goal is to make your customers happy and maybe even snag a Michelin star if you’re good enough.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:

• Kitchen Setup: Design your kitchen layout and choose all your equipment. Think of it like a digital IKEA trip, but for cooking.
• Menu Creation: Pick your dishes, learn the recipes, and make sure they taste amazing.
• Customer Service: Keep an eye on your diners, manage your staff, and make sure everyone leaves with a full belly and a smile.
• Business Management: Handle everything from ingredient sourcing to marketing to keep your restaurant thriving.

It’s one of those games where you can really get lost in the details. If you’re into management sims and have a soft spot for good food, this one might be worth checking out.

17. Two Point Museum

Alright, so if you’re anything like me, you probably spent way too many hours in Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus. Well, get ready, because Two Point Museum is here to take over your life next. This isn’t just about sticking old pots on shelves, oh no. You’re actually sending out explorers to dig up all sorts of weird and wonderful stuff – think dinosaur bones, spooky artifacts, maybe even a cursed teapot.

Once your intrepid explorers haul their finds back, it’s your job to turn them into exhibits that people actually want to see. And trust me, making a museum that appeals to everyone, from dinosaur fanatics to ghost hunters, is harder than it looks. The game throws all sorts of challenges at you, like appeasing grumpy ghosts that have taken up residence in your exhibits or figuring out how to build contraptions from ancient blueprints.

The real magic is in the sheer freedom you have to design your museum. You can go for a classic look, or maybe something a bit more… eccentric. Plus, it’s got that signature Two Point humor that’s been making us laugh since Theme Hospital. It’s a genuinely fun time, and you can play it on PS5, Switch 2, PC, and Xbox Series X.

18. Arcade Paradise

Remember those old-school arcades? The ones with the sticky floors and the flashing lights? Arcade Paradise lets you relive that glory, but with a twist. You’re not just playing the games; you’re running the whole place.

It’s a pretty neat concept. You inherit your uncle’s laundromat, which, let’s be honest, is a bit of a dump. But instead of just cleaning clothes, you start installing arcade machines in the back. The goal is to transform this drab laundromat into a buzzing arcade empire. You get to pick from over 35 different playable arcade games, each with its own high-score potential. It’s not just about setting new records yourself, though. You’ve got to manage the business side of things too.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:

• Upgrade and Expand: Invest your earnings into new, exciting arcade cabinets to attract more customers.
• Keep it Clean: Don’t forget the laundromat side! Happy customers mean more money for your arcade dreams.
• Master the Machines: While managing, you can also jump in and try to beat those high scores yourself.

It’s a fun mix of business management and classic arcade action. You’re constantly balancing the books with the thrill of the game. It really captures that feeling of building something from the ground up, one quarter at a time.

19. PowerWash Simulator

Alright, let’s talk about PowerWash Simulator. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a grimy patio or a mud-caked car and thinking, ‘Man, I wish I could just blast that clean,’ then this game is probably for you. It’s one of those surprisingly satisfying sims where the main goal is just… cleaning stuff. You get your trusty power washer and go to town on all sorts of things in the fictional town of Muckingham.

It’s pretty straightforward, really. You pick a job, usually involving some seriously dirty vehicles, buildings, or even entire playgrounds, and you just start spraying. The game tracks how much you’ve cleaned, and once everything is spotless, you get paid and can move on to the next mess. The real magic is in the sound and the visual feedback – that satisfying psssshhhht as the dirt just melts away is oddly therapeutic.

They’ve added a few different ways to play beyond just the standard career mode:

• Challenge Mode: This is where things get a bit more intense. You might have to clean something within a strict time limit or use a specific amount of water. It definitely adds a layer of pressure.
• Time Challenge: Exactly what it sounds like. How fast can you get that tractor sparkling?
• Water Challenge: This one tests your precision. You have a limited amount of water, so you can’t just go wild. You need to be efficient.

Honestly, it’s the kind of game you can just switch your brain off for and relax with. It’s not going to win any awards for complex storytelling, but sometimes, just making something look clean is reward enough. Plus, you can even team up with friends to tackle the bigger jobs, which is always a good time.

20. House Flipper 2

Alright, let’s talk about House Flipper 2. If you’ve ever looked at a fixer-upper and thought, "I could totally do that," this game is for you. It’s all about taking rundown properties and making them shine again. You get to pick up tools, paint walls, knock down old structures, and basically bring a place back to life. It’s pretty satisfying, honestly.

There are a couple of ways to play, which is nice. You’ve got the Story Mode, where you’ll tackle specific jobs and learn the ropes, sometimes with quick tasks and other times with more involved projects that really make you think. Then there’s the Sandbox Mode. This is where you can really let loose. Want to build a mansion from scratch or recreate your own house? Go for it. It’s a great way to just mess around and see what you can create without any pressure.

One of the cool things they added is a bit of a narrative. You’re in this place called Pinnacove, and you meet a character named Tom who helps you learn about the area. It adds a little something extra to the renovation process, making it feel like you’re part of a community. It’s more than just flipping houses; it’s about making them homes.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Renovation Tasks: Painting, tiling, demolition, construction, and decorating.
• Game Modes: Story Mode for guided challenges and Sandbox Mode for free-form building.
• Exploration: Discover the town of Pinnacove and its local stories.
• Tools: A variety of tools to help you get the job done, from hammers to paint rollers.

21. Lawn Mowing Simulator Landmark Edition

Alright, let’s talk about Lawn Mowing Simulator Landmark Edition. If you’ve ever found yourself staring out the window, thinking ‘man, I could really make that lawn look better,’ then this might be your jam. It’s basically about taking these overgrown patches of grass, usually in some nice-looking British countryside settings, and just… tidying them up. You get to use a bunch of licensed mowers, which is pretty neat if you’re into that sort of thing. I mean, who knew there were so many brands of lawnmowers?

What I found interesting is that it’s not just about the mowing itself. You actually build up a business. You’ve got to manage your headquarters, which sounds a bit much for just cutting grass, but hey, it’s a game. You can hire people to help you out, which is probably a good idea if you don’t want to spend all day out there. Plus, you gotta think about advertising and keeping your finances in order. It’s like running a small business, but your main product is a well-manicured lawn.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Career Mode: Take on different contracts and work your way up.
• Free Mode: Just hop on a mower and go wherever you please.
• Challenge Mode: Test your skills with specific tasks and time limits.

The real satisfaction comes from seeing a messy field transform into a perfectly striped lawn. It’s surprisingly calming, honestly. It’s one of those games where you can just switch off your brain and do a repetitive task, and it feels… good. Don’t expect any crazy plot twists or anything, but if you’re looking for some chill gameplay, this might be it.

22. My Summer Car

Alright, let’s talk about My Summer Car. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a teenager in 1990s Finland with a dream of building a rally car, this is probably as close as you’re gonna get without actually, you know, doing it. And let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. This game is less about smooth driving and more about the sheer, unadulterated chaos of putting a car together with questionable instructions and even more questionable life choices.

You start with a beat-up old wreck and a whole lot of ambition. The goal? Get this thing running, pass inspection, and maybe, just maybe, win that rally. Sounds simple enough, right? Wrong. You’ll be wrestling with bolts, figuring out which part goes where, and probably cursing a lot. It’s the kind of game where you spend hours just trying to get an engine to start, only to realize you forgot to add oil. Classic.

Here’s a little taste of what you’re in for:

• The Build Process: It’s a puzzle, a test of patience, and sometimes, a full-blown engineering nightmare. Every single nut and bolt matters.
• The Finnish Summer: Expect long days, questionable food choices (sausages, anyone?), and the occasional trip to the pub. Yes, you can get drunk in the game, and it definitely affects how you handle that car.
• The Consequences: Mess up too badly? You might end up in jail, or worse, have your car towed. There’s a real sense of accomplishment when you finally get that engine purring, though.
• The Unexpected: Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, something else goes wrong. A part breaks, the weather turns, or you just have a really bad day. It keeps you on your toes, that’s for sure.

23. Nubby’s Number Factory

Okay, so picture this: you’re in a factory, and your job is to make numbers bigger. Sounds simple, right? Well, not exactly. In Nubby’s Number Factory, if you mess up, the sun apparently explodes. Talk about high stakes for a number-crunching game!

This game is a real head-scratcher, kind of like a mix between pachinko and those old Flash games we used to play. It’s one of those "Balatro-like" games where the main goal is just to keep making your number grow. What’s really cool is that it was made by just one person, Ethan Anderson, also known as MogDogBlog. He really leaned into the silly side of things, with items that have names like "Poop Butt" – and yes, it’s actually pretty useful in the game. The game actually encourages you to try and break it, which is a fun twist.

It’s surprisingly easy to lose track of time playing this one. You start with a simple goal, but then you get these power-ups and modifiers that change everything. It’s got this retro 90s computer vibe that’s pretty charming.

Here’s a quick look at how things can escalate:

• Starting Point: You begin with a small number.
• Adding Multipliers: You collect items that increase your number.
• Game-Breaking Items: Find special items that multiply your number exponentially.
• The Goal: Reach an astronomically large number before… well, before the sun explodes.

It’s a weird, fun little indie game that really took off, partly thanks to streamers picking it up. If you’re looking for something a bit different and don’t mind a bit of absurdity, give Nubby’s Number Factory a try.

24. Ghost of Yōtei

Alright, let’s talk about Ghost of Yōtei. This one’s from Sucker Punch, the same folks who brought us Ghost of Tsushima, and it’s set on Ezo, which is basically Hokkaido in Japan, but like, centuries ago. You play as Atsu, and she’s on a mission to get revenge on the people who killed her family. It’s a pretty classic setup, but the game really tries to make it more than just a simple revenge flick.

What I liked is that the world itself, Ezo, feels pretty alive. It’s big, sure, but it doesn’t feel like a chore to explore. They say there aren’t a bunch of pointless fetch quests or just collecting random junk. Even when you think you know what’s coming, the game apparently throws some curveballs. The side stories and random encounters are supposed to keep you hooked.

And the combat? It sounds pretty intense. You’ve got different weapons, each with its own special moves you can unlock. It’s not just about button-mashing, though. You’ll need to be quick on your feet to parry attacks and strike back. It’s meant to be tough but fair, which is always a good sign.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Revenge-driven story: Atsu’s quest for vengeance is the main driver.
• Vast explorable world: The island of Ezo offers plenty to see and do.
• Challenging combat: Requires timing and skill to master.
• Engaging side content: Keeps exploration interesting beyond the main plot.

The voice acting for Atsu, done by Erika Ishii, is apparently a real standout. People are saying it really pulls you into her journey. And if you’re the type who likes to replay games, they’ve added a New Game+ mode, so you can jump back in and experience those intense moments again.

25. Baby Steps and more

Alright, let’s talk about Baby Steps. This game is something else. You play as Nate, a guy who’s basically stuck in his parents’ basement, and he gets, uh, transported to this fantasy world. His only way home? Climb a ridiculously tough mountain. It’s kind of like those games where you have to painstakingly move each limb to walk, but with a whole lot more ragdoll physics and potential for hilarious (or rage-inducing) falls.

The core of the game is about Nate learning to accept help, which is a surprisingly deep theme for a game about a guy in a onesie struggling to walk. He keeps turning down helpful items like maps or better shoes because he’s too proud, which just makes the climb harder. It’s a weirdly effective way to explore ideas about masculinity and not wanting to seem like you need assistance.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’re up against:

• Precise Controls: You’ll be using both analog sticks and shoulder buttons just to take a single step. It’s not exactly Mario 64, that’s for sure.
• Environmental Hazards: Get ready for slippery ice, narrow ledges, and obstacles that make Nate’s floppy body even harder to control.
• The Mountain Itself: This thing is designed to make you fall. A lot. Progress can be lost in seconds, which feels pretty brutal.

It sounds frustrating, and honestly, it is. But there’s a real sense of accomplishment when you finally get past a tough section. Plus, the story gets pretty wild and actually has something to say about pushing through challenges. It’s a game that’s definitely not for everyone, but if you like a good challenge with a side of existential dread, give it a shot.

Wrapping It Up

So, that’s a look at some of the standout simulation games that really made 2025 a year to remember. It’s been a wild ride, with some big surprises and a lot of heart poured into these virtual worlds. Whether you’re into building cities, running farms, or just getting lost in a detailed world, there’s something here for everyone. We saw a lot of games that just kept going, even when things got tough, and that spirit really shines through. Keep an eye out, because the gaming world always has more in store, and who knows what unexpected gems 2026 will bring.