one dataset · paper, tables, graph, wiki
simgrammar the grammar of simulation

games 179 records

Every game is a set of parts

Each catalogued game drawn as the mechanics it is built from, core parts first. Each page holds the decomposition, design notes, claims, and sources.

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core partsupporting partpoint at a part to light up every game that has it

City builder · 30 games

1968

Hamurabi

Crop cultivationGoods consumptionTurn structureAdvisorsRandom disastersSpoilage
6
1982

Utopia

Building placementCitizen satisfactionPeriodic ticksResource extractionStability and unrestTreasury and budgetUnit commandsWeather
8
1989

SimCity

Land valuePower gridRCI demandTreasury and budgetZoningBuilding placementCitizen satisfactionCrime and policingData overlaysFire spreadPause and speed controlPollution spreadRandom disastersScenario objectivesService coverageTaxationTraffic congestion
17
1993

SimCity 2000

Power gridRCI demandTreasury and budgetZoningBuilding placementDated technology timelineFire spreadFluid pipe networksLand valueLoans and debtPause and speed controlPolicy togglesRandom disastersService coverageTaxationTerraformingTraffic congestionVertical layers
18
1998

Caesar III

Population strataScenario objectivesWalker service deliveryBuilding placementDecoration and beautyFire spreadGoods consumptionLabor marketPause and speed controlProduction chainsRaid defenseReputationRoad networksStorage and buffersTaxationTrade routesWear and breakdown
17
1999

Pharaoh

HydrologyPopulation strataWalker service deliveryBuilding placementCrop cultivationFire spreadGoods consumptionLabor marketMegaproject sinkPause and speed controlProduction chainsScenario objectivesSeasonsStorage and buffersTrade routes
15
2003

SimCity 4

Land valueRCI demandTraffic congestionZoningAdvisorsBuilding placementPause and speed controlPolicy togglesPollution spreadPopulation strataPublic transit linesRandom disastersService coverageTaxationTerraformingTreasury and budget
16
2013

SimCity (2013)

Agent pathfindingAsynchronous shared regionsTraffic congestionZoningBuilding placementDeposit depletionFluid pipe networksPause and speed controlPollution spreadPopulation strataPower gridService coverageSupply-demand pricingTreasury and budget
14
2014

Banished

Goods consumptionLifecycle and agingSeasonsBuilding placementContagionCrop cultivationFire spreadHauling jobsImmigration by attractivenessPause and speed controlRandom disastersRenewable regrowthRomance and familyStorage and buffersTrade routesWork priorities
16
2015

Cities: Skylines

Public transit linesRoad networksTraffic congestionZoningAgent pathfindingBuilding placementEducation and workforceFluid pipe networksLand valueLifecycle and agingMilestone unlocksModding APIPause and speed controlPolicy togglesPower gridService coverageTravel mode choice
17
2017

Kingdoms and Castles

Raid defenseSeasonsBuilding placementCitizen satisfactionContagionCrop cultivationFaction diplomacyFire spreadImmigration by attractivenessModular assemblyPause and speed controlProcedural terrainRandom disastersRenewable regrowthStorage and buffersTaxation
16
2018

Frostpunk

Citizen satisfactionCrisis countdownPolicy togglesService coverageBuilding placementDaily schedulesDilemma cardsFog of warLabor marketPause and speed controlResource extractionStorage and buffersTech treeWeather
14
2018

Pocket City

Milestone unlocksRoad networksZoningBuilding placementCrime and policingLoans and debtPower gridRCI demandRandom disastersService coverageTaxationTreasury and budget
12
2018

Surviving Mars

Fluid pipe networksHauling jobsPower gridTech treeBuilding placementModding APIMood and breakdownsNeeds decayPause and speed controlPersonality traitsPlanetary climateRandom disastersResource extractionService coverageTriggered event chainsWear and breakdown
16
2019

Anno 1800

Goods consumptionPopulation strataProduction chainsTrade routesBlueprintsBuilding placementLabor marketMegaproject sinkMilestone unlocksPause and speed controlRival firmsStorage and buffersVehicle routes and schedules
13
2019

Foundation

Modular assemblyZoningBuilding placementGoods consumptionMilestone unlocksPause and speed controlProduction chainsTaxationTrade routes
9
2019

Islanders

Adjacency scoringBuilding placementMilestone unlocksProcedural terrain
4
2019

Tropico 6

Citizen satisfactionElectionsInterest groupsBuilding placementEducation and workforceFaction diplomacyPause and speed controlPolicy togglesProduction chainsStability and unrestTrade routesTreasury and budget
12
2019

Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic

Production chainsTrade routesVehicle routes and schedulesBuilding placementCitizen satisfactionConveyor transportEducation and workforceFluid pipe networksGoods consumptionPause and speed controlPublic transit linesRail signalingSeasonsStorage and buffersSupply-demand pricing
15
2020

Songs of Syx

Population strataUnit commandsAgent pathfindingBuilding placementFaction diplomacyNeeds decayPause and speed controlProduction chainsStability and unrestSupply linesTrade routes
11
2020

Townscaper

Procedural build assistBuilding placementRoom recognition
3
2021

Against the Storm

Citizen satisfactionCrisis countdownProduction chainsScenario objectivesAdaptive threat scalingBuilding placementFog of warPause and speed controlPopulation strataProcedural terrainSeasonsTech treeTrade routes
13
2021

Timberborn

Crisis countdownHydrologyBuilding placementCrop cultivationHauling jobsLifecycle and agingNeeds decayPause and speed controlPower gridSignal circuitsStorage and buffersTerraformingVertical layers
13
2022

Farthest Frontier

ContagionCrop cultivationGoods consumptionAdaptive threat scalingBuilding placementDecoration and beautyPause and speed controlPopulation strataProduction chainsRaid defenseSeasonsStorage and buffersTech treeTrade routes
14
2023

Cities: Skylines II

Agent pathfindingTraffic congestionZoningBuilding placementDay-night cycleLand valueMilestone unlocksModding APIPause and speed controlPower gridPublic transit linesRandom disastersSeasonsService coverageTaxationTech treeTravel mode choiceWeather
18
2023

Terra Nil

Building placementTreasury and budgetHabitat suitabilityHydrologyScenario objectivesTerraforming
6
2024

Frostpunk 2

ElectionsInterest groupsPolicy togglesZoningBuilding placementCrisis countdownPause and speed controlResource extractionScenario objectivesStability and unrestTech tree
11
2024

Manor Lords

Crop cultivationZoningBuilding placementCitizen satisfactionGoods consumptionPause and speed controlProduction chainsRaid defenseRenewable regrowthRoad networksSeasonsStorage and buffersTaxationTrade routesUnit commands
15
2024

Tiny Glade

Procedural build assistBuilding placementTerraforming
3
2025

Anno 117: Pax Romana

Goods consumptionPopulation strataProduction chainsAdjacency scoringBuilding placementModular assemblyPause and speed controlReputationRoad networksTech treeTrade routesUnit commandsVehicle routes and schedules
13

Life sim · 10 games

1985

Little Computer People

Creature careNeeds decayProcedural charactersDaily schedulesNatural-language interactionPersonality traits
6
1993

Princess Maker 2

Agent skillsCare-dependent developmentDaily action budgetLifecycle and agingCareer ladderNeeds decayTreasury and budgetTriggered event chainsTurn structure
9
2000

The Sims

Building placementNeeds decaySmart objectsAgent skillsAutonomy levelsCareer ladderDecoration and beautyPause and speed controlPermadeathPersonality traitsRelationship valuesRomance and familySocial exchangesTreasury and budgetUtility action selection
15
2004

The Sims 2

Aspirations and wantsLifecycle and agingNeeds decaySmart objectsTrait inheritanceAgent skillsBuilding placementCareer ladderMemories and thoughtsModding APIPause and speed controlPermadeathPersonality traitsRelationship valuesRomance and familySocial exchangesUtility action selection
17
2009

The Sims 3

Memories and thoughtsNeeds decayPersonality traitsAgent skillsAspirations and wantsBuilding placementCareer ladderDaily schedulesLifecycle and agingModding APIOff-screen life progressionPause and speed controlPermadeathRelationship valuesRomance and familySmart objectsSocial exchangesUtility action selectionVillager requests
19
2013

Tomodachi Life

Relationship valuesRomance and familyVillager requestsAsynchronous shared regionsContent sharingMilestone unlocksPersonality traitsReal-time clock
8
2014

The Sims 4

Memories and thoughtsNeeds decayPersonality traitsAgent skillsAspirations and wantsAutonomy levelsBlueprintsBuilding placementCareer ladderContent sharingLifecycle and agingModding APIMood and breakdownsOff-screen life progressionPause and speed controlRelationship valuesRomance and familySmart objectsSocial exchangesUtility action selection
20
2020

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Building placementCollection goalsHand craftingReal-time clockDecoration and beautyDirect avatar controlMilestone unlocksRelationship valuesRenewable regrowthSeasonsSpoilageTerraformingWeather
13
2025

inZOI

Generative content on demandNeeds decayAgent skillsBuilding placementCareer ladderContagionContent sharingDirect avatar controlGossip propagationLifecycle and agingNatural-language interactionOff-screen life progressionPause and speed controlPersonality traitsRelationship valuesRomance and familyUtility action selection
17
2026

Paralives

Building placementNeeds decayAgent skillsCareer ladderContent sharingLifecycle and agingModding APIPause and speed controlPersonality traitsRelationship valuesRomance and familyUtility action selection
12

Management / tycoon · 10 games

1994

SimTower

Building placementDaily schedulesMilestone unlocksService queuesAgent pathfindingPause and speed controlRandom disastersTreasury and budgetVertical layers
9
1994

Theme Park

Building placementCrowd preferencesCustomer value choiceStaff hiring and rostersWear and breakdownCrime and policingLoans and debtNeeds decayNegotiationPause and speed controlRival firmsService queuesTech treeUtility action selection
14
1997

Theme Hospital

Building placementDiagnosis and treatmentService queuesStaff hiring and rostersAdvisorsAgent skillsContagionContracts and ordersLoans and debtNeeds decayPause and speed controlReputationScenario objectivesTech treeUtility action selectionWear and breakdown
16
1999

RollerCoaster Tycoon

Crowd preferencesCustomer value choiceDesign performance ratingModular assemblyWear and breakdownAdvertising and awarenessAgent inspectionAgent pathfindingBuilding placementDecoration and beautyLoans and debtNeeds decayPause and speed controlScenario objectivesService queuesStaff hiring and rostersTech treeTerraformingTrack layingUtility action selection
20
2001

Zoo Tycoon

Crowd preferencesHabitat suitabilityNeeds decayBuilding placementDecoration and beautyLifecycle and agingPause and speed controlScenario objectivesStaff hiring and rostersTech treeWear and breakdown
11
2012

Prison Architect

Building placementCrime and policingDaily schedulesNeeds decayStability and unrestAgent pathfindingContent sharingContracts and ordersFire spreadFluid pipe networksModding APIPause and speed controlPopulation strataPower gridStaff hiring and rostersTech treeTreasury and budgetUtility action selection
18
2016

Planet Coaster

Content sharingCrowd preferencesDesign performance ratingModular assemblyBlueprintsBuilding placementCustomer value choiceDecoration and beautyNeeds decayPause and speed controlScenario objectivesStaff hiring and rostersTech treeTerraformingTrack layingUtility action selectionWear and breakdown
17
2018

Jurassic World Evolution

Contracts and ordersNeeds decayRandom disastersReputationBuilding placementContagionCrowd preferencesDirect avatar controlMilestone unlocksPause and speed controlPower gridResource extractionTech tree
13
2018

Two Point Hospital

Building placementDiagnosis and treatmentService queuesStaff hiring and rostersAdvertising and awarenessAgent skillsContagionContent sharingDecoration and beautyMilestone unlocksNeeds decayPause and speed controlPersonality traitsScenario objectivesTech treeUtility action selectionWear and breakdown
17
2019

Planet Zoo

Habitat suitabilityNeeds decayTrait inheritanceBuilding placementContent sharingCrowd preferencesDay-night cycleLifecycle and agingModular assemblyPause and speed controlPlayer-driven marketsReputationStaff hiring and rostersTech treeWeather
15

Business / economic sim · 8 games

1973

Lemonade Stand

Customer value choiceTurn structureWeatherAdvertising and awarenessForecastingRandom disastersTreasury and budget
7
1983

M.U.L.E.

AuctionsResource extractionSupply-demand pricingTurn structureAdjacency scoringDirect avatar controlGoods consumptionProduction chainsRandom disastersRival firms
10
1995

Capitalism

Building placementCustomer value choiceProduction chainsRival firmsAdvertising and awarenessBlueprintsDelegation to AI managersEquity and buyoutsPause and speed controlQuality tiersResource extractionScenario objectivesTech tree
13
1997

Game Dev Story

Agent skillsProduct developmentStaff hiring and rostersAdvertising and awarenessCareer ladderContracts and ordersDated technology timelineMilestone unlocksReputationTreasury and budget
10
2012

Game Dev Tycoon

Product developmentStaff hiring and rostersTech treeAdvertising and awarenessAgent skillsDated technology timelineMilestone unlocksModding APIPause and speed controlReputationTreasury and budgetTriggered event chains
12
2015

Offworld Trading Company

Equity and buyoutsProduction chainsResource extractionRival firmsSupply-demand pricingAuctionsBuilding placementGoods consumptionLoans and debtPause and speed controlProcedural terrainTech tree
12
2023

Big Ambitions

Building placementCustomer value choiceDirect avatar controlStaff hiring and rostersAdvertising and awarenessDaily schedulesDelegation to AI managersLoans and debtPause and speed controlStorage and buffersSurvival metersVehicle routes and schedules
12
2025

Schedule I

Crop cultivationCustomer value choiceDirect avatar controlProduct developmentStaff hiring and rostersBuilding placementCrime and policingDay-night cycleMilestone unlocksModding APIProduction chainsQuality tiers
12

Job sim · 8 games

2013

Papers, Please

Daily action budgetRule-checking inspectionTreasury and budgetDilemma cardsNeeds decayProcedural charactersTriggered event chains
7
2016

Job Simulator

Direct avatar controlRigid-body physicsScenario objectives
3
2018

House Flipper

Contracts and ordersCustomer value choiceSurface work toolsAgent skillsAuctionsBuilding placementDirect avatar control
7
2018

PC Building Simulator

Contracts and ordersDiagnose and repairModular assemblyDesign performance ratingMilestone unlocksTreasury and budget
6
2020

Hardspace: Shipbreaker

Rigid-body physicsSurface work toolsDaily action budgetFluid and gas simulationLoans and debtProcedural checklistsSurvival meters
7
2021

Car Mechanic Simulator 2021

Contracts and ordersDiagnose and repairAgent skillsAuctionsDirect avatar controlVehicle dynamics
6
2021

PowerWash Simulator

Surface work toolsContracts and ordersDirect avatar controlScenario objectives
4
2023

Contraband Police

Direct avatar controlRule-checking inspectionProcedural charactersRaid defenseTreasury and budgetTriggered event chains
6

Survival sim · 8 games

1971

The Oregon Trail

Random disastersSurvival metersTurn structurePermadeathWeather
5
2011

Project Zomboid

Agent skillsInjury body modelStimulus attractionSurvival metersBuilding placementCrisis countdownCrop cultivationDay-night cycleFog of warHand craftingModding APIPause and speed controlPermadeathPersonality traitsSeasonsSpoilageVehicle dynamicsWeather
18
2012

Don't Starve

Day-night cycleHand craftingSurvival metersAdaptive threat scalingCrop cultivationDirect avatar controlFire spreadModding APIPermadeathProcedural terrainRenewable regrowthSeasonsSpoilage
13
2014

Subnautica

Hand craftingSurvival metersBuilding placementDay-night cycleDirect avatar controlModding APIPermadeathPower gridSpoilage
9
2014

The Long Dark

PermadeathSurvival metersWeatherDay-night cycleDeposit depletionDirect avatar controlHand craftingModding APISpoilageWear and breakdown
10
2014

This War of Mine

Day-night cycleDilemma cardsMood and breakdownsNeeds decayForecastingHand craftingPermadeathPersonality traitsSeasonsStimulus attractionSupply-demand pricingTriggered event chains
12
2017

Stationeers

Fluid and gas simulationFluid pipe networksHeat transferSurvival metersBuilding placementCrop cultivationPlayer programmingPower gridProduction chainsResource extractionSignal circuitsStructural integrity
12
2021

Valheim

Hand craftingProcedural terrainStructural integrityAgent skillsAnimal husbandryCrop cultivationDecoration and beautyDirect avatar controlLoss on deathMilestone unlocksModding APIRaid defenseSurvival metersWear and breakdownWeather
15

Factory / automation · 7 games

2013

Factorio

Adaptive threat scalingConveyor transportPollution spreadPower gridProduction chainsRaid defenseResource extractionTech treeBlueprintsBuilding placementDeposit depletionDirect avatar controlFluid pipe networksHand craftingMachine boostingMegaproject sinkModding APIProcedural terrainQuality tiersRail signalingRequest-provider logisticsSignal circuitsSpoilageStats dashboardsStorage and buffersTrack layingVehicle routes and schedulesVertical layers
28
2015

Big Pharma

Conveyor transportProduct developmentProduction chainsRival firmsBuilding placementPause and speed controlScenario objectivesScouting knowledgeSupply-demand pricingTech tree
10
2017

Mindustry

Conveyor transportProduction chainsRaid defenseResource extractionAdaptive threat scalingBlueprintsBuilding placementCrisis countdownFluid pipe networksMachine boostingModding APIPause and speed controlPlayer programmingPower gridScenario objectivesTech treeUnit commands
17
2019

Satisfactory

Conveyor transportDirect avatar controlPower gridProduction chainsResource extractionTech treeBlueprintsBuilding placementByproducts and wasteFluid pipe networksHand craftingMachine boostingMegaproject sinkModding APIProgramming by demonstrationRail signalingStorage and buffersVehicle routes and schedules
18
2021

Dyson Sphere Program

Conveyor transportMegaproject sinkPower gridProduction chainsRequest-provider logisticsResource extractionTech treeAdaptive threat scalingBlueprintsBuilding placementDay-night cycleDirect avatar controlHand craftingMachine boostingModding APIModular assemblyProcedural terrainRaid defenseStorage and buffers
19
2022

Captain of Industry

Goods consumptionHauling jobsProduction chainsResource extractionTerraformingWear and breakdownBuilding placementByproducts and wasteConveyor transportCrop cultivationDesignation ordersMachine boostingModding APIPause and speed controlPeriodic ticksPolicy togglesPolitical capitalPollution spreadPower gridStorage and buffersTech treeTrade routesVehicle routes and schedules
23
2024

shapez 2

BlueprintsBuilding placementConveyor transportProduction chainsTech treeFluid pipe networksMegaproject sinkModding APIResource extractionSignal circuitsVehicle routes and schedulesVertical layers
12

Vehicle sim · 7 games

1997

Gran Turismo

Career ladderEmbodied skill controlVehicle dynamicsCollection goalsModular assemblyScenario objectives
6
2005

Silent Hunter III

Military operationsProcedural checklistsAgent skillsCareer ladderDay-night cycleDelegation to AI managersFog of warPause and speed controlProjectile ballisticsWeather
10
2008

iRacing

Career ladderEmbodied skill controlVehicle dynamicsWear and breakdown
4
2012

Euro Truck Simulator 2

Contracts and ordersVehicle dynamicsAgent skillsDay-night cycleLoans and debtModding APIRoad networksStaff hiring and rostersTreasury and budgetWear and breakdownWeather
11
2013

BeamNG.drive

Soft-body deformationVehicle dynamicsContent sharingEmbodied skill controlModding APIPause and speed controlScenario objectives
7
2020

SnowRunner

Contracts and ordersTerrain deformationVehicle dynamicsEmbodied skill controlFog of warMilestone unlocksWear and breakdown
7
2022

Gran Turismo 7

Embodied skill controlVehicle dynamicsCareer ladderCollection goalsScenario objectivesWeather
6

AI-native · 6 games

2019

AI Dungeon

Generative content on demandNatural-language interactionContent sharingTurn structure
4
2023

Generative Agents (Smallville)

Daily schedulesGossip propagationMemories and thoughtsAgent inspectionGenerative content on demandNatural-language interactionRelationship values
7
2023

Suck Up!

Generative content on demandNatural-language interactionContent sharingDirect avatar controlPersonality traitsScenario objectives
6
2024

Infinite Craft

Combination discoveryGenerative content on demandCollection goals
3
2024

Project Sid

ElectionsGossip propagationTaxationGenerative content on demandHand craftingMemories and thoughtsRelationship valuesResource extraction
8
2025

Whispers from the Star

Generative content on demandNatural-language interactionTriggered event chains
3

Colony sim · 6 games

2006

Dwarf Fortress

Designation ordersFluid and gas simulationHistory chronicleInjury body modelMood and breakdownsSimulated history generationStress accumulationVertical layersAdaptive threat scalingAgent skillsBuilding placementCrime and policingCrop cultivationFire spreadHauling jobsHeat transferImmigration by attractivenessMemories and thoughtsModding APINeeds decayPause and speed controlPersonality traitsProduction chainsRaid defenseRelationship valuesRoom recognitionStorage and buffersTrade routesUnit commandsUtility action selection
30
2013

RimWorld

Adaptive threat scalingInjury body modelMemories and thoughtsMood and breakdownsNeeds decayStoryteller directorWork prioritiesAgent inspectionAgent skillsAutonomy levelsCrop cultivationDecoration and beautyDesignation ordersFire spreadModding APIPause and speed controlPermadeathPersonality traitsProcedural charactersRaid defenseRelationship valuesRoom recognitionSpoilageStorage and buffersUtility action selection
25
2015

Fallout Shelter

Agent skillsGoods consumptionPower gridRomance and familyAdaptive threat scalingBuilding placementHand craftingLifecycle and agingMilestone unlocksPermadeathRaid defenseRandom disastersReal-time clockTrait inheritanceUnit commandsVertical layers
16
2017

Oxygen Not Included

Byproducts and wasteFluid and gas simulationFluid pipe networksHeat transferMood and breakdownsWork prioritiesAgent skillsAnimal husbandryBuilding placementContagionCrop cultivationData overlaysDecoration and beautyDesignation ordersModding APIPause and speed controlPersonality traitsPower gridProcedural terrainRoom recognitionSignal circuitsSpoilageStorage and buffersTech tree
24
2020

Space Haven

Building placementFluid and gas simulationMood and breakdownsNeeds decayAgent skillsFire spreadHeat transferPause and speed controlPersonality traitsPower gridProcedural terrainProduction chainsRelationship valuesReputationResource extractionUnit commandsUtility action selection
17
2021

Going Medieval

Needs decayRaid defenseTerraformingVertical layersAgent skillsAnimal husbandryBuilding placementCrop cultivationDesignation ordersMood and breakdownsPause and speed controlPermadeathPersonality traitsRoom recognitionSeasonsSpoilageStorage and buffersStructural integrityTech treeUtility action selectionWork priorities
21

Programming sim · 6 games

2011

SpaceChem

Comparative histogramsDesign performance ratingPlayer programmingContent sharingProduction chainsScenario objectives
6
2014

Screeps

Execution budgetModular assemblyPersistent shared worldPlayer programmingResource extractionTech treeAgent pathfindingLifecycle and agingModding APIPlayer-driven marketsRaid defenseWear and breakdown
12
2017

Bitburner

Player programmingReputationResource extractionAgent skillsContracts and ordersExecution budgetReal-time clockSupply-demand pricing
8
2017

Opus Magnum

Comparative histogramsDesign performance ratingModular assemblyPlayer programmingContent sharingScenario objectives
6
2019

Autonauts

Goods consumptionModular assemblyPlayer programmingProduction chainsProgramming by demonstrationAnimal husbandryCrop cultivationDirect avatar controlExecution budgetHand craftingModding APITech tree
12
2023

The Farmer Was Replaced

Crop cultivationPlayer programmingTech treeAdjacency scoringDesign performance ratingExecution budget
6

Artificial life · 5 games

1970

Conway's Game of Life

Building placementPause and speed controlTurn structure
3
1991

SimAnt

Direct avatar controlPopulation strataUnit commandsLifecycle and agingPause and speed controlRandom disastersScenario objectivesVertical layersWeatherWork priorities
10
1992

SimLife

Food webNatural selectionTrait inheritanceHabitat suitabilityLifecycle and agingPause and speed controlStats dashboardsTerraforming
8
1996

Creatures

Creature careCreature learningNeeds decayTrait inheritanceAgent inspectionContagionContent sharingLifecycle and agingModding APINatural-language interactionPause and speed controlPermadeath
12
2012

Species: Artificial Life, Real Evolution

Natural selectionTrait inheritanceAgent inspectionGod powersHabitat suitabilityLifecycle and agingPause and speed controlStats dashboards
8

MMO world · 5 games

1997

Ultima Online

Agent skillsHand craftingPersistent shared worldBuilding placementDirect avatar controlLoss on deathModding APIPlayer organizationsPvP security zonesReputationResource extraction
11
2003

A Tale in the Desert

Persistent shared worldPlayer legislationSeasonal world resetElectionsHand craftingPlayer organizationsProduction chainsResource extraction
8
2003

EVE Online

Loss on deathPersistent shared worldPlayer organizationsPlayer-driven marketsPvP security zonesAgent skillsElectionsModular assemblyProduction chainsReal-time clockReputationResource extraction
12
2003

Second Life

Persistent shared worldPlayer programmingPlayer-driven marketsContent sharingDirect avatar controlModding APIModular assemblyPlayer organizationsRigid-body physics
9
2018

Eco

Crisis countdownFood webPlayer legislationPollution spreadAgent skillsContracts and ordersElectionsModding APIPlanetary climatePlayer-driven marketsProduction chainsRenewable regrowthSeasonal world resetTaxationTech tree
15

Physics sandbox · 5 games

2004

Garry's Mod

Modding APIModular assemblyRigid-body physicsBlueprintsContent sharingDirect avatar controlSignal circuits
7
2008

The Powder Toy

Falling-sand materialsFluid and gas simulationHeat transferMaterial interactionsContent sharingFire spreadModding APIPause and speed controlSignal circuits
9
2008

Universe Sandbox

Orbital mechanicsPause and speed controlContent sharingData overlaysHeat transferPlanetary climateTerraforming
7
2019

Noita

Falling-sand materialsMaterial interactionsModular assemblyPermadeathCombination discoveryDirect avatar controlFire spreadFluid and gas simulationModding APIProcedural terrainRigid-body physics
11
2020

Teardown

Crisis countdownRigid-body physicsVoxel destructionFire spreadMaterial interactionsModding APIScenario objectivesStructural integrity
8

Political sim · 5 games

1985

Balance of Power

Faction diplomacyReputationTurn structureAlerts feedData overlaysStability and unrest
6
2016

Reigns

Dilemma cardsDynasty successionMilestone unlocksPermadeathTriggered event chains
5
2018

Rebel Inc.

Citizen satisfactionStability and unrestTreasury and budgetCorruption leakagePause and speed controlPolicy togglesScenario objectivesTriggered event chains
8
2020

Democracy 4

ElectionsInterest groupsPolicy influence networkDilemma cardsLoans and debtPolicy togglesPolitical capitalStats dashboardsTaxationTriggered event chainsTurn structure
11
2020

Suzerain

Dilemma cardsTriggered event chainsAdvisorsFaction diplomacyPolicy togglesTreasury and budget
6

Ecosystem / evolution · 4 games

2006

Viva Piñata

Animal husbandryCollection goalsFood webHabitat suitabilityAsynchronous shared regionsBuilding placementCrop cultivationMilestone unlocksTerraforming
9
2008

Spore

Content sharingMilestone unlocksModular assemblyDirect avatar controlFaction diplomacyProcedural terrainTerraformingUnit commands
8
2012

Plague Inc.

ContagionCrisis countdownTech treeAlerts feedHabitat suitabilityModding APIPause and speed controlScenario objectivesStats dashboards
9
2018

Equilinox

Habitat suitabilityMilestone unlocksTreasury and budgetBuilding placementCollection goalsFood webLifecycle and agingTerraforming
8

Flight sim · 4 games

1995

X-Plane

Flight aerodynamicsDay-night cycleEmbodied skill controlModding APIModular assemblyPause and speed controlProcedural checklistsWeather
8
2008

DCS World

Flight aerodynamicsMilitary operationsProcedural checklistsEmbodied skill controlModding APIPause and speed controlProjectile ballisticsScenario objectivesSubsystem damageWeather
10
2020

Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020)

Flight aerodynamicsReal-world data feedsWeatherDay-night cycleEmbodied skill controlModding APIPause and speed controlProcedural checklistsScenario objectives
9
2024

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

Career ladderContracts and ordersFlight aerodynamicsDay-night cycleDirect avatar controlEmbodied skill controlModding APIPause and speed controlProcedural checklistsReal-world data feedsReputationWeather
12

God game · 4 games

1989

Populous

God powersTerraformingHabitat suitabilityScenario objectivesUnit commands
5
1990

SimEarth

God powersNatural selectionPlanetary climateData overlaysHabitat suitabilityPause and speed controlPollution spreadRandom disastersScenario objectivesTerraforming
10
2001

Black & White

Creature learningGod powersReputationAdvisorsBuilding placementCreature careNeeds decayResource extractionWeather
9
2011

From Dust

HydrologyMaterial interactionsTerraformingFire spreadGod powersRandom disastersScenario objectivesUnit commands
8

Grand strategy · 4 games

2013

Europa Universalis IV

Faction diplomacyPolitical capitalStability and unrestTerritorial controlTrade routesCausal breakdown tooltipsCorruption leakageCulture and religion conversionDynasty successionFog of warInterest groupsLoans and debtModding APIOpinion modifiersPause and speed controlPolicy togglesReputationStatistical combat resolutionTech treeTriggered event chainsWar score and peace terms
21
2016

Hearts of Iron IV

Delegation to AI managersModular assemblySupply linesTech treeFaction diplomacyFog of warModding APIPause and speed controlPolicy togglesPolitical capitalProduction chainsStability and unrestStatistical combat resolutionTerritorial controlTriggered event chainsWar score and peace termsWeather
17
2020

Crusader Kings III

Dynasty successionOpinion modifiersPersonality traitsStress accumulationAgent skillsCausal breakdown tooltipsCulture and religion conversionFaction diplomacyLifecycle and agingModding APIPause and speed controlPolitical capitalRelationship valuesRomance and familyStability and unrestStatistical combat resolutionTech treeTerritorial controlTrait inheritanceTriggered event chainsWar score and peace terms
21
2022

Victoria 3

Interest groupsPopulation strataProduction chainsSupply-demand pricingCausal breakdown tooltipsCulture and religion conversionFaction diplomacyGoods consumptionImmigration by attractivenessLabor marketModding APIPause and speed controlPolicy togglesPolitical capitalStability and unrestTaxationTech treeTerritorial controlTreasury and budgetWar score and peace terms
20

Systemic RPG · 4 games

2013

Kenshi

Agent skillsFaction diplomacyInjury body modelUnit commandsBuilding placementCrop cultivationPause and speed controlPermadeathProduction chainsRaid defenseReputationStatistical combat resolutionSurvival metersTech treeWeatherWork priorities
16
2014

Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor

Direct avatar controlMemories and thoughtsProcedural characters
3
2015

Caves of Qud

Procedural terrainReputationSimulated history generationFaction diplomacyFluid and gas simulationInjury body modelMaterial interactionsModding APIPermadeathTurn structure
10
2024

Where Winds Meet

Direct avatar controlNatural-language interactionDay-night cycleRelationship valuesReputation
5

Space sim · 4 games

1984

Elite

Embodied skill controlProcedural terrainTrade routesMilestone unlocksReputationResource extraction
6
2011

Kerbal Space Program

Modular assemblyOrbital mechanicsRigid-body physicsContracts and ordersEmbodied skill controlFlight aerodynamicsHeat transferModding APIPause and speed controlPermadeathReputationResource extractionSubsystem damageTech treeTreasury and budget
15
2012

FTL: Faster Than Light

Crisis countdownFluid and gas simulationPermadeathPower allocationSubsystem damageUnit commandsAgent skillsFire spreadFog of warPause and speed controlPersonality traitsProcedural terrainStatistical combat resolutionTriggered event chains
14
2014

Elite Dangerous

Embodied skill controlPersistent shared worldProcedural terrainContracts and ordersFaction diplomacyFog of warHeat transferModular assemblyPlayer organizationsPower allocationPower gridReal-world data feedsReputationResource extractionSubsystem damageSupply-demand pricingTrade routes
17

Virtual pet · 4 games

1995

Petz (Dogz and Catz)

Creature careCreature learningPersonality traitsNeeds decay
4
1996

Tamagotchi

Creature careLifecycle and agingNeeds decayReal-time clockAlerts feedCare-dependent developmentDay-night cyclePermadeath
8
1999

Seaman

Creature careLifecycle and agingNatural-language interactionReal-time clockCreature learningHabitat suitabilityMemories and thoughtsPermadeath
8
2005

Nintendogs

Creature careCreature learningAsynchronous shared regionsMilestone unlocksNatural-language interactionNeeds decayReal-time clock
7

4X strategy · 3 games

1991

Sid Meier's Civilization

Fog of warTech treeTurn structureAdvisorsCitizen satisfactionCorruption leakageFaction diplomacyPolicy togglesProcedural terrainRoad networksStatistical combat resolutionTaxationTerritorial control
13
2004

Aurora 4X

Deposit depletionFog of warModular assemblyAgent skillsHabitat suitabilityPlanetary climateProcedural terrainReal-world data feedsResource extractionTech treeTreasury and budgetTurn structureWear and breakdown
13
2016

Stellaris

Population strataTech treeTriggered event chainsCorruption leakageCulture and religion conversionDelegation to AI managersFaction diplomacyFog of warGoods consumptionInterest groupsModding APIModular assemblyPause and speed controlPersonality traitsPolicy togglesPolitical capitalProcedural terrainStability and unrestStatistical combat resolutionTerritorial controlWar score and peace terms
21

Construction / engineering · 3 games

1993

The Incredible Machine

Modular assemblyRigid-body physicsScenario objectivesContent sharingMaterial interactionsSignal circuits
6
2015

Besiege

Modular assemblyRigid-body physicsScenario objectivesContent sharingEmbodied skill controlMaterial interactionsModding APISignal circuits
8
2015

Poly Bridge

Design performance ratingModular assemblyStructural integrityContent sharingRigid-body physicsScenario objectivesSignal circuits
7

Farming sim · 3 games

1996

Harvest Moon

Animal husbandryCrop cultivationSeasonsDaily action budgetDay-night cycleRelationship valuesRomance and familyScenario objectives
8
2016

Stardew Valley

Collection goalsCrop cultivationDaily action budgetRelationship valuesSeasonsAgent skillsAnimal husbandryBuilding placementDaily schedulesHand craftingModding APIProduction chainsQuality tiersRomance and familyVillager requestsWeather
16
2024

Farming Simulator 25

Crop cultivationVehicle dynamicsAnimal husbandryContracts and ordersDelegation to AI managersLoans and debtModding APIPause and speed controlProduction chainsRandom disastersSeasonsTerrain deformationWear and breakdownWeather
14

Sandbox world · 3 games

2009

Minecraft

Day-night cycleHand craftingProcedural terrainResource extractionSurvival metersAnimal husbandryBuilding placementCrop cultivationFire spreadFluid and gas simulationLoss on deathModding APIPersistent shared worldSignal circuitsTech tree
15
2013

Space Engineers

Modular assemblyRigid-body physicsVoxel destructionBlueprintsConveyor transportFluid and gas simulationModding APIPlayer programmingPower gridProduction chainsResource extractionSignal circuitsSubsystem damageSurvival meters
14
2017

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Material interactionsRigid-body physicsSurvival metersDay-night cycleDirect avatar controlFire spreadHand craftingHeat transferWear and breakdownWeather
10

Social sim · 3 games

2005

Façade

Natural-language interactionStoryteller directorDirect avatar controlRelationship valuesTriggered event chains
5
2012

Prom Week

Relationship valuesSocial exchangesMemories and thoughtsPersonality traitsScenario objectivesUtility action selection
6
2013

Versu

Social exchangesUtility action selectionMemories and thoughtsPersonality traitsRelationship valuesStoryteller director
6

Sports management · 3 games

1999

Out of the Park Baseball

Agent skillsAttribute-driven match engineScouting knowledgeStaff hiring and rostersBoard confidenceHistory chronicleLifecycle and agingNegotiationProcedural charactersStats dashboardsTreasury and budget
11
2004

Football Manager

Agent skillsAttribute-driven match engineScouting knowledgeStaff hiring and rostersBoard confidenceDilemma cardsLifecycle and agingNegotiationPersonality traitsProcedural charactersRelationship valuesReputationSocial exchangesStats dashboardsTreasury and budget
15
2016

Motorsport Manager

Attribute-driven match engineDesign performance ratingStaff hiring and rostersWeatherBoard confidenceNegotiationPause and speed controlPersonality traitsTreasury and budgetWear and breakdown
10

Transport / logistics · 3 games

1990

Railroad Tycoon

Building placementEquity and buyoutsRival firmsSupply-demand pricingTrack layingVehicle routes and schedulesDated technology timelineDelivery-time paymentLoans and debtPause and speed controlPeriodic ticksProduction chainsRail signalingService coverageUnit commands
15
1994

Transport Tycoon

Service coverageVehicle routes and schedulesWear and breakdownBuilding placementContracts and ordersDated technology timelineDelivery-time paymentDeposit depletionEquity and buyoutsLoans and debtPause and speed controlProduction chainsRail signalingReputationRival firmsRoad networksTerraformingTrack laying
18
2013

Mini Metro

Public transit linesService queuesAgent pathfindingPause and speed controlPeriodic ticks
5

Medical sim · 2 games

2013

Surgeon Simulator

Embodied skill controlRigid-body physicsInjury body modelScenario objectives
4
2018

Project Hospital

Building placementDiagnosis and treatmentStaff hiring and rostersAgent skillsPause and speed controlRoom recognitionScenario objectivesService queuesTreasury and budgetUnit commands
10

Wargame / military sim · 2 games

2013

Arma 3

Direct avatar controlMilitary operationsModding APIProjectile ballisticsContent sharingDay-night cycleInjury body modelScenario objectivesUnit commandsWeather
10
2019

Command: Modern Operations

Delegation to AI managersFog of warMilitary operationsContent sharingModding APIPause and speed controlProjectile ballisticsScenario objectivesScouting knowledgeUnit commandsWeather
11
plain-text twin · 179 rows, sortable
nameyearsubgenreclustermechanicsstatus
A Tale in the Desert2003MMO worldc118sourced
AI Dungeon2019AI-nativec124sourced
Against the Storm2021City builderc1613sourced
Animal Crossing: New Horizons2020Life simc1713sourced
Anno 117: Pax Romana2025City builderc0413sourced
Anno 18002019City builderc0413sourced
Arma 32013Wargame / military simc0310sourced
Aurora 4X20044X strategyc1813sourced
Autonauts2019Programming simc1912sourced
Balance of Power1985Political simc136sourced
Banished2014City builderc0416sourced
BeamNG.drive2013Vehicle simc037sourced
Besiege2015Construction / engineeringc098sourced
Big Ambitions2023Business / economic simc0112sourced
Big Pharma2015Factory / automationc0510sourced
Bitburner2017Programming simc198sourced
Black & White2001God gamec109sourced
Caesar III1998City builderc0417sourced
Capitalism1995Business / economic simc0113sourced
Captain of Industry2022Factory / automationc0523sourced
Car Mechanic Simulator 20212021Job simc206sourced
Caves of Qud2015Systemic RPGc1310sourced
Cities: Skylines2015City builderc0817sourced
Cities: Skylines II2023City builderc0818sourced
Command: Modern Operations2019Wargame / military simc0311sourced
Contraband Police2023Job simc146sourced
Conway's Game of Life1970Artificial lifec133sourced
Creatures1996Artificial lifec1012sourced
Crusader Kings III2020Grand strategyc0621sourced
DCS World2008Flight simc0310sourced
Democracy 42020Political simc0611sourced
Don't Starve2012Survival simc0713sourced
Dwarf Fortress2006Colony simc0230sourced
Dyson Sphere Program2021Factory / automationc0519sourced
EVE Online2003MMO worldc1112sourced
Eco2018MMO worldc1115sourced
Elite1984Space simc186sourced
Elite Dangerous2014Space simc1817sourced
Equilinox2018Ecosystem / evolutionc178sourced
Euro Truck Simulator 22012Vehicle simc0311sourced
Europa Universalis IV2013Grand strategyc0621sourced
FTL: Faster Than Light2012Space simc1614sourced
Factorio2013Factory / automationc0528sourced
Fallout Shelter2015Colony simc0216sourced
Farming Simulator 252024Farming simc0314sourced
Farthest Frontier2022City builderc0414sourced
Façade2005Social simc125sourced
Football Manager2004Sports managementc2115sourced
Foundation2019City builderc049sourced
From Dust2011God gamec158sourced
Frostpunk2018City builderc1614sourced
Frostpunk 22024City builderc0611sourced
Game Dev Story1997Business / economic simc0110sourced
Game Dev Tycoon2012Business / economic simc0112sourced
Garry's Mod2004Physics sandboxc097sourced
Generative Agents (Smallville)2023AI-nativec227verified
Going Medieval2021Colony simc0221sourced
Gran Turismo1997Vehicle simc036sourced
Gran Turismo 72022Vehicle simc036sourced
Hamurabi1968City builderc136sourced
Hardspace: Shipbreaker2020Job simc207sourced
Harvest Moon1996Farming simc178sourced
Hearts of Iron IV2016Grand strategyc0617sourced
House Flipper2018Job simc207sourced
Infinite Craft2024AI-nativec123sourced
Islanders2019City builderc234sourced
Job Simulator2016Job simc093sourced
Jurassic World Evolution2018Management / tycoonc0113sourced
Kenshi2013Systemic RPGc0416sourced
Kerbal Space Program2011Space simc1815sourced
Kingdoms and Castles2017City builderc0416sourced
Lemonade Stand1973Business / economic simc137sourced
Little Computer People1985Life simc106sourced
M.U.L.E.1983Business / economic simc0510sourced
Manor Lords2024City builderc0415sourced
Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020)2020Flight simc039sourced
Microsoft Flight Simulator 20242024Flight simc0312sourced
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor2014Systemic RPGc223sourced
Mindustry2017Factory / automationc0517sourced
Minecraft2009Sandbox worldc0715sourced
Mini Metro2013Transport / logisticsc085sourced
Motorsport Manager2016Sports managementc2110sourced
Nintendogs2005Virtual petc107sourced
Noita2019Physics sandboxc0711sourced
Offworld Trading Company2015Business / economic simc0512sourced
Opus Magnum2017Programming simc196sourced
Out of the Park Baseball1999Sports managementc2111sourced
Oxygen Not Included2017Colony simc0224sourced
PC Building Simulator2018Job simc206sourced
Papers, Please2013Job simc147sourced
Paralives2026Life simc0212sourced
Petz (Dogz and Catz)1995Virtual petc104sourced
Pharaoh1999City builderc0415sourced
Plague Inc.2012Ecosystem / evolutionc169sourced
Planet Coaster2016Management / tycoonc0117sourced
Planet Zoo2019Management / tycoonc0115sourced
Pocket City2018City builderc0812sourced
Poly Bridge2015Construction / engineeringc097sourced
Populous1989God gamec155sourced
PowerWash Simulator2021Job simc204sourced
Princess Maker 21993Life simc149sourced
Prison Architect2012Management / tycoonc0118sourced
Project Hospital2018Medical simc0110sourced
Project Sid2024AI-nativec228verified
Project Zomboid2011Survival simc0718sourced
Prom Week2012Social simc026sourced
Railroad Tycoon1990Transport / logisticsc0515sourced
Rebel Inc.2018Political simc068sourced
Reigns2016Political simc145sourced
RimWorld2013Colony simc0225sourced
RollerCoaster Tycoon1999Management / tycoonc0120sourced
Satisfactory2019Factory / automationc0518sourced
Schedule I2025Business / economic simc0112sourced
Screeps2014Programming simc1112sourced
Seaman1999Virtual petc108sourced
Second Life2003MMO worldc119sourced
Sid Meier's Civilization19914X strategyc0613sourced
Silent Hunter III2005Vehicle simc0310sourced
SimAnt1991Artificial lifec0410sourced
SimCity1989City builderc0817sourced
SimCity (2013)2013City builderc0814sourced
SimCity 20001993City builderc0818sourced
SimCity 42003City builderc0816sourced
SimEarth1990God gamec1510sourced
SimLife1992Artificial lifec158sourced
SimTower1994Management / tycoonc089sourced
SnowRunner2020Vehicle simc037sourced
Songs of Syx2020City builderc0411sourced
Space Engineers2013Sandbox worldc0914sourced
Space Haven2020Colony simc0217sourced
SpaceChem2011Programming simc196sourced
Species: Artificial Life, Real Evolution2012Artificial lifec158sourced
Spore2008Ecosystem / evolutionc238sourced
Stardew Valley2016Farming simc1716sourced
Stationeers2017Survival simc0712sourced
Stellaris20164X strategyc0621sourced
Subnautica2014Survival simc079sourced
Suck Up!2023AI-nativec126verified
Surgeon Simulator2013Medical simc094sourced
Surviving Mars2018City builderc0116sourced
Suzerain2020Political simc146sourced
Tamagotchi1996Virtual petc108sourced
Teardown2020Physics sandboxc098sourced
Terra Nil2023City builderc156sourced
The Farmer Was Replaced2023Programming simc196sourced
The Incredible Machine1993Construction / engineeringc096sourced
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild2017Sandbox worldc0710sourced
The Long Dark2014Survival simc0710sourced
The Oregon Trail1971Survival simc135sourced
The Powder Toy2008Physics sandboxc079sourced
The Sims2000Life simc0215sourced
The Sims 22004Life simc0217sourced
The Sims 32009Life simc0219sourced
The Sims 42014Life simc0220sourced
Theme Hospital1997Management / tycoonc0116sourced
Theme Park1994Management / tycoonc0114sourced
This War of Mine2014Survival simc1412sourced
Timberborn2021City builderc1613sourced
Tiny Glade2024City builderc243sourced
Tomodachi Life2013Life simc028sourced
Townscaper2020City builderc243sourced
Transport Tycoon1994Transport / logisticsc0518sourced
Tropico 62019City builderc0612sourced
Two Point Hospital2018Management / tycoonc0117sourced
Ultima Online1997MMO worldc1111sourced
Universe Sandbox2008Physics sandboxc187sourced
Utopia1982City builderc068contested
Valheim2021Survival simc0715sourced
Versu2013Social simc026verified
Victoria 32022Grand strategyc0620sourced
Viva Piñata2006Ecosystem / evolutionc179sourced
Where Winds Meet2024Systemic RPGc125asserted
Whispers from the Star2025AI-nativec123sourced
Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic2019City builderc0415sourced
X-Plane1995Flight simc038sourced
Zoo Tycoon2001Management / tycoonc0111sourced
iRacing2008Vehicle simc034sourced
inZOI2025Life simc0217verified
shapez 22024Factory / automationc0512sourced