15 Best Simulation Games of 2023

Not a hardcore gamer? You don't have to just play mobile games. There are other great game types out there, like Simulation games. Many great simulation games were released in 2023, and these are some of the best!

Top 15 Simulation Games released in 2023

Simulation games are some of my all-time favorite games to play because I don't even have to be a skilled gamer to get the hang of them. I can sit back and relax and immerse myself in some of my favorite dream worlds and activities—no sweat needed. Here are some of the best and most popular sim releases from 2023.

Dave the Diver

Dave the Diver is a notable simulation experience. Not only do you get to immerse yourself in deep-sea exploration, but you also get to run your own sushi restaurant simultaneously. You could play this for hours and not get bored; there's so much to see underwater and lots of business to maintain. Plus, you'll enjoy the thrilling side story as Dave and his friends try to investigate the mysterious Blue Hole.

Thief Simulator 2

I definitely don't endorse any thievery and breaking and entering in real life. Still, becoming a thief for a day is an interesting concept, which is why Thief Simulator is so intriguing. Put on your burglar cap and get your crowbar ready to complete these thieving jobs. You'll pick locks, sneak past guards, hack security measures, and, most importantly, make some big bank. Are you stealthy enough?

Related: 10 Best RPGs of 2023

Railway Empire 2

If you're a sucker for building sims and you like trains, then Railway Empire 2 is the perfect simulation game for you. You have free reign to build and customize your own rail networks and run the behind-the-scenes of the company as you expand and try to outrank all of your railway competitors by establishing the most successful railroads and trains that you can. You can even invite some friends along for multiplayer fun.

Dredge

Dredge is a fishing adventure sim in which you set sail across the sea and try to catch fish to sell—all while exploring the mysterious waters of the archipelago. This game is not your classic, relaxing simulation (although it can be from time to time) because it has darker horror undertones to keep you on the edge of your seat. There are some unexpected creatures lurking in the sea around you, so dredge along carefully.

Hotel Renovator

Hotel Renovator gives you the chance to put your best decorating foot forward. This simulation game features realistic graphics that really made me feel immersed as I took on the job of renovating my own hotel. With lots of designs and decorations at your disposal, you can get creative. You'll also be in charge of managing the hotel and attempting to earn five-star reviews.

Disney Dreamlight Valley

Although Disney Dreamlight Valley has been around in early access, its full release and first expansion dropped in 2023. It is one of my very favorite simulation games to play—not just because of all the Disney characters, but because there is so much to do. You can explore the biomes of the valley, decorate your own house, fish, garden, and mine, and even complete special story quests for each character. It's a Disney fan's dream!

Five Nights at Freddy's: Help Wanted 2

Simulation games don't have to be all rainbows and butterflies all the time. In fact, they can be some of the creepiest games around, like Five Nights at Freddy's: Help Wanted 2. It's time to become a Fazbear employee and take on the day-to-day maintenance and care around the facility. The experience is truly immersive (especially if you try it in VR). Play on the arcade machines, serve food, fix machinery, and experience some unexplainable horrors.

Coral Island

If you like Stardew Valley, then you'll enjoy Coral Island, which received its full release this year. You have all the activities that you love in Stardew Valley, like fishing, mining, gardening, and even those special relationships with NPCs—but on a tropical island with lots of ancient history and spirits to interact with. You can also dive deep into the ocean, clean up the water, and visit a Merfolk kingdom. There are so many fun tasks to complete and NPCs to interact; I was easily engrossed.

Outpath

Outpath is a great casual simulator to pick up, especially if you like Minecraft Survival. This is a first-person pixel survival, much like Minecraft, that allows you to craft, collect resources, and attempt to earn milestones on sky islands. It is even more casual than Minecraft Survival because you don't have to worry about aggressive mobs killing you or wrecking your creations, you can just enjoy your simulation experience and progress at your own speed.

Farming Simulator 23

Farming Simulator 23 is a fantastic realistic simulation experience in which you can run and operate your very own farm. You'll learn how to utilize different farming machinery, grow various crops, maintain your facilities, and care for animals. It's up to you what kind of farm you want to have, and there are plenty of options to choose from.

Truck Driver: The American Dream

The life of a truck driver is a very interesting (and maybe lonely) journey, and you can experience it all with Truck Driver: The American Dream. Follow Nathan's unique story as he steps in his father's footsteps and becomes a truck driver. You'll get behind the wheel and transport all kinds of loads in 30+ chapters. Time to put your driving skills to the test!

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly

This sequel to the Coffee Talk urban fantasy game is one of the best cozy sims released this year. You can create new caffeine treats and goodies, create beautiful latte art, and interact with many new, unique characters, each with their own storylines and personalities. Relax in this chill, lo-fi-cafe setting and uncover new recipes as you progress.

House Flipper 2

House Flipper 2 is another one of my favorite simulation games of 2023. Much like Hotel Renovator, this is the perfect experience to play as a fan of interior design. You can become the ultimate house flipper as you complete various jobs for clients, from basic cleaning jobs to full renovations. Once you make enough money, you can buy your own properties to flip and sell for a profit. This truly gives you the liberty and creative means to decorate and style a space to your liking in an immersive first-person view with realistic graphics.

Related: Best FPS Games of 2023

Cities: Skylines II

Cities: Skylines II is the ultimate city-building sim that allows you to develop a city from the ground up. It hosts super realistic situations. You need to be quick to solve problems and create an environment that citizens can live in, as your builds will shape their lives and stories. Build and organize city blocks full of businesses, residential suburbs, parks, and more to stimulate an actual thriving city.

Sengoku Dynasty

Sengoku Dynasty is one of the most exciting simulation experiences released in 2023, and it features a little bit of all the best genres, including survival, action, and city building. You live in a medieval Japanese village set in an open world, and it's up to you to be their fearless leader while crafting, hunting, expanding the village, and fighting back hostile enemies. You can choose to play this experience in solo or multiplayer, so I recommend inviting some friends to join you in your adventure.

Looking for more great simulation games to try? Check out Best Simulation Games on PC or 5 Best Life Simulation Games Like Bitlife on Pro Game Guides.