**10 Realistic Simulation Games You Need to Play**
Video games have always chased the goal of realism. The phrase “realistic graphics” has been around since classic titles like *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* graced our screens. While that may seem funny now, back then, it was revolutionary. Over time, games evolved to offer not only realistic visuals but experiences that closely mirror real life in many ways. Several genres have embraced this, resulting in many realistic simulation games that became huge successes.
Here are some of the best realistic sim games that have upped the ante by packing as much realism and real-world rules into their gameplay as possible.
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### 10. Elite Dangerous: What It’s Like to Soar Through the Stars
While no one really knows what piloting a massive spaceship across the galaxy feels like, *Elite Dangerous* does its absolute best to give you a convincing experience. Getting your ship off the ground is a challenge in itself. From there, you must maintain various systems, monitor fuel levels, and navigate dangers such as asteroid fields and space pirates.
The game is slow-paced, encouraging you to feel like you are truly journeying through the vast depths of space. For an even more immersive experience, try playing it in VR—you’ll get a realistic simulation unlike anything else out there. *Elite Dangerous* is that good and that immersive.
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### 9. Kerbal Space Program: The True Nature of Space
On the surface, *Kerbal Space Program* might look simple or even childlike, but beneath its charming aesthetic lies a deeply detailed simulator that mirrors real-life physics and space procedures. You’ll design and build rockets from scratch, then use them to explore the solar system.
Success here requires applying realistic physics to get a proper launch. You’ll conduct scientific experiments in space and take on various exploration missions. The game is famously challenging because real learning is necessary to succeed, but for fans of realistic simulation, this gem offers plenty to sink your teeth into.
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### 8. Arma III: The Most Real Depiction of Conflict
*Arma III* is first and foremost a high-quality military simulator. While its graphics may not be top-tier, the simulation experience is unparalleled. You’ll find features rare or absent in other shooters, including ballistic trajectories, real-life medical procedures such as applying tourniquets, complex mission planning, and realistic vehicle handling.
Going in guns blazing generally won’t work here. Success requires squad coordination and careful planning — even the slightest error can lead to spectacular mission failure. The game boasts a vibrant modding community, enhancing realism or taking gameplay in wildly different directions. For lovers of gritty, realistic shooters, *Arma III* delivers.
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### 7. American Truck Simulator: Real Life Truckin’
At first glance, *American Truck Simulator* might seem straightforward, but it’s actually one of the deepest simulators out there. It accounts for everything: brake types, chassis configuration, cargo weight, truck length, and obeying speed limits on long journeys.
Realistic challenges include learning how to merge lanes with a 53-foot-long truck and, perhaps most difficult of all, parking the beast when you reach your destination. It’s a meditative experience that’s both challenging and relaxing. The game gives a new appreciation for real truck drivers—you realize it’s much more than simply driving a vehicle; it’s like managing a mechanical ecosystem.
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### 6. Football Manager: Behind the Pitch
*Football Manager* offers a different take on realism by putting you in control of managing a team rather than playing on the field. You handle everything from team salaries and training regimens to match tactics and stadium pricing.
This highly addictive simulation delivers an incredibly realistic glimpse into the complexities of running a multi-million dollar franchise in the world’s most popular sport. Instead of executing corner kicks or slide tackles, you build your team strategically and make crucial decisions off the pitch. Plus, multiplayer lets you test your management skills against others online.
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### 5. Surgeon Simulator: One Wrong Move
*Surgeon Simulator* is a darkly comedic yet surprisingly realistic take on surgery. Its humor often comes from just how easy it is to disastrously fail a procedure. Behind the laughs lies a sobering reminder of how precise real surgery must be.
You can perform various surgeries complicated by shaky hands, environmental distractions, and chaotic circumstances. Mistakes can lead to truly horrific consequences. Not for the faint of heart, but if you want a tongue-in-cheek look at the life of a wildly unqualified surgeon, this game delivers.
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### 4. PC Building Simulator: Learn the Addiction
What might sound boring is actually a wildly accurate and engaging simulation. In *PC Building Simulator*, you manage a PC repair shop, fixing customers’ machines and learning real-life building techniques as you go.
You’ll unscrew components, replace motherboards, apply thermal paste, clean fans, and much more. The inclusion of real-world hardware makes this experience all the more engrossing—and dangerous—because you’ll likely be inspired to build a PC yourself. It’s one of the most realistic and educational sims available, even if it might cost you a pretty penny down the road.
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### 3. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: Being a Peasant is Tough
Although regarded by some as an RPG, *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2* acts as a medieval life simulator. You start from nothing after your group is defeated by bandits and must master everything from swordplay to potion-making with impressive realism.
You’ll need to train extensively to improve your fighting skills, learning from different teachers before truly earning your prowess. Life details like sleeping, potion brewing with precise ingredients and timing, realistic blacksmithing, and sharpening weapons add rich layers of authenticity. The game’s medieval simulations, including its slow-loading yet powerful gun, create a challenging and deeply rewarding experience.
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### 2. PowerWash Simulator: The Zen of Clean
*PowerWash Simulator* offers a surprisingly satisfying niche: powerwashing dirty objects around town. Tasks range from small to massive, and you can upgrade your equipment to tackle bigger jobs.
The cleaning mechanics feel very realistic—if you’ve ever used a power washer, the sensation in the game will feel familiar and relaxing. Its stress-free gameplay, combined with the option to play in VR, makes it perfect for anyone who wants a calming yet engaging experience.
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### 1. Microsoft Flight Simulator: Traveling the World, For Real
Considered by many to be the ultimate simulation game, *Microsoft Flight Simulator* faithfully captures real-world flying mechanics. It’s overwhelming, educational, and breathtaking, letting you pilot planes all over the globe thanks to real location data.
Playing in VR enhances the experience, requiring you to physically interact with buttons, levers, and controls just like a real pilot. The simulation is both awe-inspiring and nerve-wracking, giving a true-to-life glimpse of aeronautical skill and responsibility. The long-running series has reached a level where graphical fidelity and mechanical accuracy combine to create an unforgettable experience. Mistakes can be terrifying, making your full focus essential for success.
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These simulations don’t just entertain—they immerse you in authentic experiences that give a whole new appreciation for the real-life skills and challenges they represent. Whether soaring through space, managing a soccer team, or building a PC from the ground up, these games bring realism to the forefront like never before.
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