Over the past couple years, Indie developers have been flocking toSteamearly access. Early Access allows these developers to release an incomplete game for players to get there hands on, and most of the time the developers use those resources to deliver on the promised product. It is not always clear what games in early access are worth it, though, as some are simply not very good games or get abandoned by the developers.
One genre that seems to consistently utilizeSteamearly access is the simulator genre. So many simulators get released on early access that fill different niches.Games likePrison ArchitectandRimworldfound a lot of success through early access, and there have been many games since that have also tried that route. While some early access simulators are not worth the money, there are a few that could become the next big simulator game.
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Honey, I Joined a Cult
Contrary to what some may think,Honey I Joined a Culthas nothing to do withHoney, I Shrunk the Kids. In this title,players create their own personal cultand try to lead it. They have to construct a base for their cult to live in, and then they must get to work converting people. The art style is very reminiscent ofPrison Architect, and the gameplay can be a lot of fun. Players must care for their cult members and provide them all their needs or wants if they want the cult to survive. They can also send members out into the world to complete missions and gather resources to further grow the cult. Sole Survivor Games has been steadily adding new content to the title, and so far it seems to be the most in-depth cult simulator available.
Mad Games Tycoon 2is the third game from Eggcode Games and delivers one of the most in-depth video game development simulators on the market.Much likeGame Dev Tycoon,Mad Games Tycoon 2brings players throughout video game history as they try to create the biggest company around. Players are given control over pretty much every aspect of their studio and the games that they create. Eggcode has also shown that it is committed to improving the game, as it receives consistent updates that add new features and fix old ones; the latest updates even added the ability to acquire other companies. This is one of the few simulators that can also be played with friends, as up to four players can compete against each other to see whose company will stand the test of time.
MMORPG Tycoon 2
Sometimes, all someone wants to do is make theirown version ofWorld of Warcraft, and that is whereMMORPG Tycoon 2comes in. Instead of running a company, this title throws the player into their fictional MMO. They have to edit regions, place objects, create quests, and fully customize every aspect of their MMO. The focus of this game is more on the creative side than the business side, as players can edit every minute detail of their game.
As gamers place more objects, they will unlock upgrades for their MMO that will attract players. VectorStorm Pty Ltd is also very transparent when it comes to what is going on behind the scenes, and it constantly updates the game with bug fixes and new content to mess around with. Currently, it is even workingon a large scale dungeons updateso that players can create their own dungeons for their MMO.
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Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord
Instead of tasking the player with running companies,Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlordallows players to live out their medieval dreams in a very in-depth simulator.Mount & Blade 2lets players create their own character and then places them in a large open map with almost no direction, Players must find their way in this giant world by completing contracts, creating their own army, and making their mark on the world.
Gamers can join one of the various warring kingdoms, marry into a rich family, claim a keep of their own, or choose to live life as a simple merchant. The possibilities of this game are endless and will no doubt enthrall players for hours on end.Taleworlds Entertainment is no strangerto deep simulators, and it has shown that it is committed to making this game the best it can be.
Software Inc.
Back in the office.Software Inc.does not just let players run their own game company, but it lets them run an entire software company. Players are given full control over every aspect of their company, including the software that gets made and the look of the headquarters. Their companies can create all sorts of things, ranging from office software to video games. Currently, Coredumping is even working on a way for players to be able to create their own hardware alongside software. If someone has ever wanted to runtheir own Apple or Microsoft, thenSoftware Inc.is the best way to do it. The game also has Steam Workshop support so that once players get bored with the base game, they can download as many mods as they want.
The Tenants
In 2021, Ancient Forge Studio releasedThe Tenantsin early access. The game puts players in control of a landlordas they deal with their tenants, design the apartments, purchase new properties, and fulfill contracts. It gives players complete control over the look of the apartments they choose to own, letting their creativity run wild. The goal here is to own as much property as possible to build a rental company empire. The game has seen immense growth since it first hit early access, and Ancient Forge shows no signs of slowing down as it passes the one-year anniversary. This game is worth a look for anyone who wants to design property and fulfill their dream of being a landlord.
More games arereleasing on Steam early accessall the time, but not all of them see consistent support like the aforementioned titles. By trying out theseSteamgames, fans of the simulator genre will surely find a title that fits their niche and can fill hours of time.
