There's a reason many players enjoy simulation games. Whether it's due to their realistic experiences, control and creativity, relaxation and exploration, or a sense of accomplishment and progress, simulator games cover almost anything from simulating a mayor's life to a goat's everyday activities.

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These games offer an opportunity to explore new worlds, take on different roles, and experience activities that may not be accessible in real life. Mobile phone simulation games are popular because they provide accessible and portable experiences, allowing users to engage in immersive simulations anytime, anywhere.

Updated June 12, 2024, by Rie Takumi: The best mobile simulation games allow players to pick up where they left off with zero delay. Great mobile sims leave enough clues for players to work out what they were doing if they've left it alone for long enough. Most mobile sim games also have a robust fan base with strong strategies that can be adapted to stopgap or improve player workflows. Better still are games with active communities. Players build databases for their favorite games on their own as a reference and to help out fellow gamers. TV Studio Story, JUNO: New Origin, Chinese Parents, and Hamster Inn have enthusiastic players who exchange tips on how to best maximize their experience on Reddit and across social media platforms.

18 TV Studio Story

Run A TV Studio With Immersive TV Production Simulator

TV Studio Story simulates TV production and studio management in Kairosoft's signature, mobile-optimized simulator gameplay. Kairosoft's new offering starts players with a modest studio where they must create new shows and decide on their theme, set, and cast. Certain combinations unlock themes and genres that open the studio to new types of shows.

Aspiring producers must also build rapport with talent agencies to access stars. Stars can fire up the audience better in genres they specialize in. Building a great staff is equally important, and can make tough budget, PR, and fan engagement scenarios easier.

17 JUNO: New Origin

Build Space Rockets From Scratch To Launch Into Space

The mobile version of JUNO: New Origin was released before the Windows and Mac versions. But the end result is still the same: a robust ship-building simulator that's fun to fiddle with even in beta. Updates are still being rolled out for what's formerly known as SimpleRockets 2.

JUNO: New Origin fulfills every aeronautics fan's fantasy of building rockets. Everything from a rocket's engine and fuel type, chamber pressure, and gimbal range, and more can be modified for better thrust, velocity, exit and air pressure, power usage, and other stats.

16 Chinese Parents

Immersive Child Raising Simulator Despite Parody Tag

For a game that satirizes the rigid standards East Asian, specifically Chinese, parents have for their children, Chinese Parents has quite the suite of child-rearing options. The game starts at infancy and lasts until children take the Gaokao or Nationwide Unified Examination for Admissions to General Universities and Colleges.

To guide their child to success, parents actually start by playing a grid mini-game that heavily affects their children's stats and chances. Afterward, they must schedule what their children do in their free time to improve their stats while dueling with other parents for their kids' reputations. Lastly, their kids' romantic prospects must be decided, as it will be critical to continuing the player's lineage.

15 Hamster Inn

Reach Fever Pitch In Cute Inn Running Simulator

Hamster Inn is an adorable inn management game full of cute, pudgy little animals. As the tiny hamster manager, players tend to guests' requests, which range from simple room inquiries to saving their babies. Fulfilling guest requests rewards reputation points and attracts more furry patrons to the inn.

Aside from completing requests, players must also upgrade their inn to keep guests happy. Renovating rooms, replacing furniture, expanding hallways, and putting in new features help a lot. Finding good staff with great skills also enhances the guest experience and makes certain stats easier to boost.

14 Egg Inc.

Chicken-Only Clicker & Management Game

Egg Inc. is a simulation game that allows players to choose from several different chicken and egg types, each with its own set of perks and disadvantages. In this simulation of a real farm, players manage their resources, strive for maximum output, and earn money by selling their eggs. Players are responsible for monitoring the chickens' well-being and making decisions on the coops' layouts and other structures.

When selling eggs, players must take into account the preferences of all of the possible customers. Everything from the animations to the graphics to the chicks is top-notch. Several simulation elements in the game provide complexity and realism, which keeps the player interested.

13 Rebel Inc.

Political & Military Simulator From Plague Inc. Creator

Although the gameplay is similar to that of Plague Inc., the focus here is on surviving a war instead of a pandemic. Players take on the role of governor and must strike a balance between the necessities of the people and the goals of national stabilization and the elimination of rebel groups.

The rebels must be put down if players want to see peace and prosperity in the seven regions. To succeed, players will need to weigh numerous options and make tough choices. It may appear difficult at first, but the game comes with straightforward instructions and support for its superb design and exciting gameplay.

12 SimCity Buildit

Play Updated City Builder Classic On Commute

SimCity BuildIt offers an immersive and addictive gameplay experience with its intuitive controls and extensive simulation features. Players can design and customize their city, making impactful choices that shape the growth and prosperity of their citizens. The game encourages continuous progression as players upgrade buildings, unlock new structures, and overcome challenges to earn special rewards.

A critical aspect that contributes to the enjoyment of SimCity BuildIt is its dynamic and responsive nature. Players must skillfully manage the needs of their citizens, including housing, transportation, and utilities, while also addressing issues like pollution and traffic. This strategic decision-making keeps players engaged and invested in the development and success of their virtual city.

11 Goat Simulator

Pure Fun Sandbox With Hilarious Secrets

An emphasis on pure dumb fun and freedom sets Goat Simulator apart. Players have no set objectives or rules to follow, allowing them to explore and interact with the environment creatively and unexpectedly. Whether headbutting objects, licking things, or launching the goat into the air, the game rewards players for their absurd actions and encourages them to push the boundaries of what is possible.

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Additionally, the game's intentionally glitchy and unpredictable physics engine adds to the game's charm. The quirky nature of the goat's movements and interactions with the environment leads to unexpected and hilarious moments. Players never quite know what will happen next, creating a sense of amusement.

Goat Simulator's direct sequel, Goat Simulator 3, was also released on mobile along with other major console releases. And like other versions, mobile Goat Simulator 3 unleashes multiplayer mayhem on San Angora. Up to seven mini-games are available for pals taking a break from their usual sandbox shenanigans.

10 The Simpsons: Tapped Out

City Management Sim With The Simpsons

There's a good reason that The Simpsons has been a household name and one of the longest-running TV programs since 1989. The Simpsons have spread across several media, including gaming. The Simpsons: Tapped Out revolves around building and managing Springfield. Players are tasked with rebuilding the city after Homer Simpson causes a nuclear meltdown. They can construct buildings, landmarks, and other town decorations.

The game captures the charm and wit of The Simpsons franchise, with entertaining dialogue and references that fans of the show will appreciate. In addition, the game encourages social interaction through its Friend system. Players can visit their friends' towns, leave messages, and even participate in friendly competitions. This social aspect adds a sense of community and allows players to connect with other series fans.

9 Fallout Shelter

Collect Characters From Main Fallout Games & Amazon Show

Immersive and addictive are words that can describe management in Fallout Shelter. It strikes a perfect balance between resource management, strategy, and exploration. Throughout the game, players are constantly presented with challenges and content that keep them engaged and invested. Whether expanding the vault, fixing issues, or sending dwellers on expeditions, there is always something to do and decisions to make.

Moreover, Fallout Shelter successfully captures the essence of the lore-heavy Fallout series through its distinct art style, which combines a retro-futuristic design with iconic elements from the franchise. In addition, the game's visuals give a sense of nostalgia to fans of the Fallout games, immersing them in a post-apocalyptic world they know and love. These elements create an authentic and enjoyable gaming experience for new players and longtime fans.

8 Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp

Curate The Perfect Town In Portable Animal Crossing Game

For any player searching for something light to do in their spare time, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is the perfect simulation game because it is free and easy to pick up and play. Players are cast adrift on an uncharted island, where they must fend for themselves, make friends with the locals, set up camp, explore, gather resources, and create various items.

The game has players searching for licenses and farm characters to unlock the best furniture and decor for their homes. With over 300 pieces of apparel, 100 animal companions, and 1,000 pieces of furniture provided, there are a plethora of options for how players would like their house to look, thanks to Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp.

7 Plague Inc.

Play The Villain With World Eradicating Virus Simulator

If players have ever wanted to control a deadly pathogen, Plague Inc. is certainly the game to download, as the selling point is to infect and wipe out humanity. The gameplay revolves around strategizing and evolving the pathogen to overcome the efforts of society to combat the outbreak. Players start by choosing a type of pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, and then plan their strategy to infect and spread across the globe. They must carefully manage factors like transmission, symptoms, and abilities to maximize the pathogen's potential for infection and lethality.

As the game progresses, players face various challenges, including human efforts to develop a cure, genetic mutations, and public awareness. What makes Plague Inc. a standout game is its engaging and thought-provoking gameplay. In addition, the game's strategic element keeps players constantly engaged as they make critical decisions to outsmart the efforts of scientists and governments.

6 Real Flight Simulator

Realistic Flight Simulator For Enthusiasts & Hobbyists

There is a realistic and immersive experience awaiting pilots in Real Flight Simulator. Players can take control of various aircraft in an authentic flight simulation. The gameplay revolves around piloting different planes, ranging from small propeller aircraft to commercial jets, and experiencing the thrill and challenges of flying in various weather conditions and environments.

Real Flight Simulator's attention to detail and realism makes it stand out. From the intricacies of takeoff and landing to navigating through air traffic, players must master the controls to ensure a successful flight. The realistic cockpit view and detailed aircraft models enhance the immersion, making players feel like pilots.

5 My Time at Portia

Android Port Runs 3D Farming Sim Cleanly

The community simulator aspects and relationships that players can cultivate within the vibrant world of My Time at Portia are what draw players in. From honing their crafting and building skills to socializing and romancing with the dynamic cast, there is no shortage of engaging gameplay opportunities.

Additionally, the game's expansive 3D environment encourages players to venture beyond the confines of their workshop to unravel secrets, discover hidden treasures, and fight monsters. For players who love community simulators or crave a rich and immersive gaming experience, the game offers a compelling adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

4 Sims FreePlay

Play The Sims Anywhere With This Mobile Port

In Sims FreePlay, players can customize and design their Sims' appearance, build and furnish their homes, and engage in various activities. The immersive and open-ended gameplay, where players can explore a complex virtual world while witnessing their Sims' growth and development over time, makes it unique.

Players have control over shaping Sims' lives and personalities, making decisions that affect their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. Additionally, Sims FreePlay provides a strong sense of progression and achievement. Players can earn valuable rewards by completing quests, goals, and events and unlocking exciting new content.

3 Pocket City

Pocket City Simulator With Great Portrait And Landscape Modes

Pocket City is one of the best mobile city-building simulation games, and it works great in either portrait or landscape orientation. Players are responsible for maintaining order in the city, which will feature all the amenities one would expect from a modern metropolis, from homes and businesses to parks and schools.

In this one, unpleasant realities like traffic and natural calamities coexist with more pleasant ones like block celebrations. Pocket City isn't the most complicated on Android, but it has plenty of depth to keep gamers engrossed for hours. They can try out Pocket City for free, and if they love it, they can make a one-time payment to unlock offline play.

Its sequel, Pocket City 2, expanded its options with new buildings, environmental hazards, challenges, and minigames. Pocket City 2 also allows players to free roam with a custom avatar to interact with their city on a more personal level. But the simulation aspects also received buffs in the form of deeper metrics and new ways to optimize their citizens' happiness.

2 Stardew Valley

Classic Farming Simulator That Started It All Packed Into Mobile

For a fairly old game, Stardew Valley captivates an addictive gameplay loop that has kept players coming back for more. The game encourages players to plan and manage their farms, deciding what crops to grow, how to allocate resources, and how to maximize profits. In addition, there is a sense of progression as players upgrade their tools, unlock new areas, and discover new crops and animals, providing a constant sense of achievement and satisfaction.

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Another aspect that makes Stardew Valley exceptional is its attention to detail and depth in its immersive and charming world. In addition, the small-town atmosphere creates a cozy and relaxing environment that draws players in. Whether building relationships with the diverse cast of characters, participating in seasonal festivals, exploring the mines for valuable resources, cooking delicious food, or customizing and designing their farm, there is always something new to discover and enjoy.

1 PewDiePie’s Tuber Simulator

Become The Biggest YouTuber In Pixel Tuber Simulator

For players looking to fulfill their dream of being successful YouTube celebrities, PewDiePie's Tuber Simulator would be the perfect game. Players assume the role of budding YouTubers, starting from scratch and working their way up to become famous internet celebrities. The gameplay revolves around creating and managing their virtual YouTube channel, where they can produce videos to gain subscribers.

As players gain more subscribers and views, they earn in-game currency that can be used to purchase items, accessories, and decorations for their virtual studio. Additionally, the gamer provides constant updates and events, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. Finally, the game's vibrant community and the ability to connect with others enhance the overall experience, making it a delightful and immersive simulation.

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