One of the most popular gaming genres is that of life simulation games. Whether it be farming or building their own island paradise, players can't get enough of this type of game. These games allow players to escape into the world of the mundane for a relaxing experience that they just can't get from other genres.

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With so many options to choose from, it may be difficult for the player to find the ideal match for their play style. While many life sim games have evolved to add in the fantastical, many players still look for those that are the most realistic in nature. These are some of the games that fit that description the best.

6 Farming Simulator 22

a tractor in Farming Simulator 22

Release Date

11/22/2021

Studio

GIANTS Software

Platforms

  • PC
  • macOS
  • PS4
  • PS5
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X/S

While there are a lot of farming sims out there, nothing comes very close to Farming Simulator 22. In this game, the player will experience the most realistic farming life within the boundaries of a game. They'll have to expand their farming operation to include production chains.

They'll use authentic machines, such as John Deere tractors, to complete their daily workload, with over 400 options for machinery and tools to choose from. Additionally, the player will have to learn how to cope with seasonal challenges, especially those caused by the coming winter. This game offers the most accurate look into farming out of the many farming sims available.

5 My Time At Portia

the protagonist in My Time At Portia

Release Date

01/15/2019

Studio

Pathea Games

Platforms

  • PC
  • Nintendo Switch
  • PS4
  • Xbox One
  • Mobile

For those looking for an immersive game that can take them away for hours, My Time at Portia has what they need. They'll take on the challenge of restoring an old neglected shop to its former glory while raising animals and befriending the locals.

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Players have nearly endless options for the things they can do and accomplish in this game. Building up their home, completing tasks, and general exploration will keep them busy. There's even the element of romance for those who look forward to that the most.

4 Story Of Seasons: Pioneers Of Olive Town

the protagonist watering his crops in Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town

Release Date

03/23/2021

Studio

Marvelous

Platforms

  • Nintendo Switch
  • PS4
  • PC

True to its Harvest Moon origins, Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town offers players the chance to live a farming life. They'll have the opportunity to build up the protagonist's grandfather's derelict farm that nature has reclaimed over the years.

For the player looking for the social interaction with the residents of Olive Town, there are many great events to take part in. They'll have the chance to get to know each resident, even experiencing romance and marriage, while growing the best crops. Considered one of the best Harvest Moon games to hit the Nintendo Switch, those invested in farming sims will love this game.

3 Stardew Valley

field of crops in Stardew Valley

Release Date

02/26/2016

Studio

ConcernedApe

Platforms

  • Nintendo Switch
  • PS4
  • PS Vita
  • Xbox One
  • PC
  • Mobile

For the most part, Stardew Valley offers players that real-life sim feel they're looking for. It does have some elements, such as monster fighting, that aren't exactly authentic to everyday life, but it's still a pretty realistic farming sim game. Following its release in 2016, its popularity soared, making it one of the most beloved real-life sims that still has a broad following today.

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The player can immerse themselves into day-to-day interactions with the locals of Pelican Town, eventually finding love and settling down. As with most games of this type that tend toward the farming side of things, the player will be able to raise animals, fish, tend crops, and craft.

2 Two Point Hospital

a hospital setup in Two Point Hospital

Release Date

08/30/2018

Studio

Two Point Studios

Platforms

  • PC
  • Nintendo Switch
  • PS4
  • Xbox One

Two Point Hospital allows the player to experience what it's like to run a hospital, from caring for patients to handling concerns of the staff. They'll have to make decisions on what to invest in to make their hospital run more efficiently.

The player will be immersed into a 3D world where they manage things in real time. They'll have the chance to cure many unusual diseases while constructing their hospital exactly how they want it.

1 The Sims 2

sims interacting in a store in The Sims 2

Release Date

09/14/2004

Studio

Maxis Redwood Shores

Platforms

  • Nintendo GBA
  • Nintendo GameCube
  • Nintendo DS
  • PC
  • Mobile
  • PS2
  • PSP
  • Xbox

Considered by many to be the definitive edition of the series, The Sims 2 features everything about real life that a sim had not previously offered before its launch. It was the first introduction to the series of the different life stages from baby to senior. In addition, the player was able to provide their Sims with fears and aspirations, which was monumental.

With every aspect of the game as close to reality as possible, many fell in love with The Sims 2. While there's no direct story to the game, there are smaller storylines and character arcs the player can experience. For many this is the absolute definitive real-life sim game.

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