What is Simulation Games?
Mobile games that replicate real-world activities, systems, or processes, allowing players to manage, build, and control virtual environments.
Simulation games are mobile games that model real-world activities, systems, or processes, allowing players to experiment with and control virtual environments. This genre includes city builders, farming simulators, business management games, life simulation, and vehicle/flight simulators. Players typically engage in resource management, strategic planning, and long-term development of their virtual worlds or characters.
Why It Matters
Simulation games attract dedicated audiences who enjoy strategic thinking and long-term progression. They typically have strong retention rates and monetization potential through time-skipping mechanics, premium resources, and cosmetic upgrades. The genre appeals to players seeking relaxing, goal-oriented gameplay with tangible progress.
How to Calculate
Key metrics include Building/Construction Completion Rate, Resource Collection Efficiency, Session Length (often longer than other genres), and Progression Milestones Reached. Monetization: Time-skip Purchase Rate, Premium Resource Conversion, and Cosmetic Item Sales.
Industry Benchmarks
| Category | Average | Good Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Average Session Length | 15-30 minutes | 25+ minutes |
| Day 7 Retention | 20-35% | 30%+ |
| IAP Conversion Rate | 3-8% | 6%+ |
Best Practices
Design satisfying progression loops with clear goals and rewards. Implement time-based mechanics that encourage regular check-ins. Provide both short-term tasks and long-term objectives. Use push notifications for completion alerts and special events. Balance free progression with monetization opportunities.
Examples
Popular simulation games include SimCity BuildIt (city building), Hay Day (farming), The Sims Mobile (life simulation), and Two Point Hospital (management simulation). Many incorporate social elements like visiting friends' creations or collaborative building projects.
Notes
Simulation games often use time-gating mechanics where players must wait for real-world time to pass for buildings to complete or resources to generate. This creates natural monetization opportunities through time-skip purchases while encouraging regular engagement patterns.