The field of simulation is a niche market, but it has found its way into titles aimed at a more general audience. While the depth of detail isn't as polished or as realistic as it is in real simulation games, it's still important to appreciate the developers' attempts. We present to you five games with simulation mechanics, or a certain level of realistic elements:
Black Desert Online - Farming
The word "farming" in MMORPGs only refers to repetitive actions to gain experience points or fungible resources. This is not the case with Black Desert Online which introduces farming as a way to generate money and raw materials. Of course, the mechanics are not as deep as in Farming Simulator, but the player still needs to learn some real world skills.
The player must manage their properties and their borders. He also needs to monitor water levels, fertilizers, and know where to find suitable materials for the farm. Unfortunately, the game doesn't really dive too much into botany, as the functionality is streamlined so the player can worry more about logistics. Expectations remain, but the rewards are quick and reliable, like the automatic reading of the Sweet Bonanza game.
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wilds - Real World Facts
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wilds is one of the most ambitious titles in its franchise to date. The element that has made him so popular is his take on systemic gameplay which applies heavily to combat, exploration, and puzzle solving. That being said, the game subjects the player to certain real world elements such as the environment, weather, and general transportation.
For example, Link, the player-controlled protagonist, can climb walls, but could slide when on a slippery surface in rain. Rain also makes him vulnerable to lightning strikes when standing at heights and carrying a metal weapon or shield.
Grassy plains and deep forests are susceptible to fires which can be started by lightning or any fire source. For a final touch, Link can call Master Cycle Zero, an all-terrain motorcycle powered by recyclable materials.
Far Cry 2 - Life Threatening Facts
Breath of the Wilds wasn't the first to make gamers fear the outdoors. Far Cry 2 did it first and a bit too well, some say. All of its realistic features can really put the brakes on your plans to take down enemies. The most popular example would be a wildfire that can permanently turn part of the map into burnt overtime.
The game also features jamming weapons while you are trying to fire or reload, so regular maintenance is required. Some spots are also invaded by mosquitoes which could inflict malaria on the player. It is also possible to get infections from open wounds.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance - All
Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a first person adventure game designed to be realistic. Aside from the surprisingly accurate depiction of 15th century Bohemia. The player controls Henry, an illiterate apprentice blacksmith. To start reading books or panels, you have to find a teacher!
In addition to reading, the player must also push Henry to learn how to use a sword, parry an attack, and properly shoot a bow. Brewing potions is also a long and tedious process, but the recipes are mostly fictitious or simplified. It's also worth noting that the game has specific rewards and penalties to encourage balanced eating. It is also possible to get enough drunk to pass out and wake up with a severe hangover.
Red Dead Redemption - Hunting
Red Dead Redemption doesn't force the player to face hunger or repair weapons, but it has focused on other things. Perhaps the most realistic part is the hunt. Getting good quality skin is not based on luck like Sweet Bonanza game. The player must choose a healthy target and use the most refined method possible to ensure a clean elimination. After which, they can carve the carcass and be rewarded with a fully animated skinning of a freshly poached mammal..