Traditionally, video games have always been about recreation, with players looking to lose themselves in other worlds or simply enjoy powers they don't have in real life. However, there are some video games, particularly simulation games, that manage to teach players new skills that can be translated to the real world in some ways.
While even the best video games for learning new skills won't completely prepare players for real-world application, particularly in cases where physical strength or muscle memory is required, they can still act as great foundational tools. If games simply inspire individuals to try out new hobbies, then that is also a huge win.
6 Cooking Simulator
There are a number of great cooking video games on the market, some of which dip into the fun and chaos that come with manning a kitchen. One of the most realistic cooking games that can also help players learn to cook, is Cooking Simulator, a first-person experience that can even be enjoyed in VR.
With over 80 recipes to choose from, players will learn to prepare a diverse range of meals out of more than 140 ingredients. These recipes can then be recreated at home once players have gained some expertise and learned important fire safety lessons.
5 Car Mechanic Simulator 2021
If players have ever wondered what it is like to get their hands dirty under the hood of a car without actually getting their hands dirty, then Car Mechanic Simulator 2021 is the game for them. This hyperrealistic simulation game teaches players the ins and outs of being a car mechanic, with incredible attention to detail that only real mechanics will recognize.
Players will learn all the different skills associated with working in a garage, and with over 4,000 unique parts, there is no shortage of work to be done. There is also a business management side to the game, where players can try to make as much money as possible.
4 Fishing Planet
Fishing is an activity in many games, but there are a number of great fishing games entirely dedicated to the hobby; the best of these has to be Fishing Planet. The game is so realistic that players can learn many of the intricacies of real fishing without ever getting their feet wet.
From choosing the correct bait to understanding the different types of fish and the various tactics used to catch them, there are countless things to learn from Fishing Planet. The game even teaches players the importance of patience when it comes to fishing, and best of all is the fact that it is free to play for anyone. Of course, there are also many things the game cannot teach, such as the strength needed to reel a fish in, but nonetheless, it is a must-play for fishing enthusiasts who are just starting out.
3 PC Building Simulator 2
PC Building Simulator 2 teaches gamers some of the most relevant skills they will ever need, as it allows them to learn how to build PCs and test out new rigs without the risk of breaking expensive hardware. While there are a few more hands-on skills that the game cannot teach, it is by far one of the most realistic simulation games ever made, and thus, it will certainly assist players in learning the ins and outs of creating a computer.
After players have learned the basics, they can even take on challenges where they must diagnose and fix PCs that have been brought in. The game is also complete with practically all the tech that players can expect to find in real life, allowing them to accurately build their ideal PC in-game before attempting to build a real one.
2 Euro Truck Simulator 2
While a game such as Euro Truck Simulator 2 will by no means completely teach players how to handle and drive a real truck, and any budding truckers will of course need to undergo extensive training to gain the relevant licenses, the game can still help players learn the basics.
Of course, if players have access to a driving wheel, they will receive a more instructive experience than they would while playing on a controller or with a mouse and keyboard. Other than the mechanics of driving a heavy vehicle, the game will also teach players about maneuvers, traffic, and the logistics of being a truck driver.
1 Microsoft Flight Simulator
Learning to fly is no easy job, and it is a career or hobby that comes with a lot of responsibilities. Naturally, the training experience is rigorous; however, if any budding pilots were looking to get a head start and perhaps familiarize themselves with the basics and the layout of a cockpit on top of many other things, they could try out Microsoft Flight Simulator.
This is particularly true if the player uses Microsoft Flight Simulator to fly the plane they plan to use as part of their real training. Some trained pilots also play this game for extra practice or specifically to familiarize themselves with an airport they plan on flying to for the first time. Beyond being a great game for learning a new skill, Microsoft Flight Simulator is notoriously beautiful with photorealistic graphics, thus allowing for a truly immersive experience.