If you created a survey and asked gamers what kind of video games they prefer to play the most, it is likely that most respondents would not mention simulator games. Instead, they would go with AAA titles that are driven visually or have an excellent story.
Even though simulator games are not as popular, there are still plenty of gamers who like to play them. And here are three reasons that make simulator games worth one’s while.
Opportunities to Relax
Those who are looking to relax and forget about their work woes or other problems should give simulators a try. When you are tired, playing intense multiplayer games is stressful, especially if you fail to coordinate with your teammates. Single-player games with a story can be a bother as well when you have to fight through hordes of enemies and go up against strong bosses.
Meanwhile, a simulator game puts you in an environment where you do not have to feel too worried about dying and having to start from scratch. You can enjoy relaxing gameplay and spend an hour or two on your computer stress-free.
Farming Simulator is a good example of such a game. Players get to experience the life of a farmer and get to start their own farms. Besides, with the upcoming 22 version, the modding community is already preparing FS22 Mods that will improve the player experience even more.
There are times when you need to think outside the box to come up with ways to relax. And it might be that driving heavy machinery and developing your virtual farm could be just the thing to get away from it all and have some peaceful time.
Opportunities to Learn
Learning opportunities are perhaps the most significant benefit of playing simulator games. And it is not just games like Flight Simulator, Cooking Simulator, or Surgeon simulator that aspiring professionals use to polish their skills.
No, given how great simulator games are for learning, game developers are releasing various types to accommodate different professions.
Now, as for why simulators are great to improve one’s repertoire, there are a few reasons:
- If you were to compare video games to traditional lectures, the latter is quite boring and usually does not involve learners actively. Meanwhile, playing a simulator game provides hands-on training and active involvement.
- Those who practice with simulator games will have an opportunity to adapt the skills they learned in reality because these games simulate the real world.
- Learning at your own pace is also a significant advantage of simulator games. You do not have to listen to the educator but spend as much time playing and learning as you want.
- Efficiency is worth a shout as well. There is no need to organize and hire expensive lecturers when you can purchase and download a video game instead.
Yes, it is worth mentioning that not all learners may find the simulator game approach effective. However, given how hassle-free it is to get a video game on your computer and test it for yourself, it would be a waste not to try this. Not to mention that if there are multiple people participating and playing a game, one can compete with their peers and add extra fun to the experience.
Opportunities to Discover a new Hobby
Gaming can be a source of income or a hobby, but playing simulator games may encourage you to try certain things in real life. Just like you can learn new skills, you can also graduate from playing a video game and switching to real life.
For example, playing truck simulator games might lead to you becoming a truck driver. But it does not have to be just work-related.
Hobbies also manifest from simulator games. For example, if you play building simulators, you may end up applying your skills in real life and build something simple.
Opportunities to Fill the Void
If you wish to do something but do not have the means for it, a simulator game could be the answer to your problem. While it is difficult to replace a real thing with a simulation, it is still better than nothing.
Say that you like football but have nobody to play with because of your location. Or perhaps you had an injury that prevents you from playing. And when watching football games becomes too boring and you wish to become involved, Football Manager is a good alternative.
The Sims is also a game that many people play to create a better version of their life, even if it is just a means to escape for a while and think about what it would be like to have a great career or a nice house.
