What are simulation games really? This Bright Hub article follows the growth and explosion of simulation games in recent years and attempts to shine a light on what, exactly, they are.
Definition of Simulation Games
Webster's dictionary defines simulation as "the imitative representation of the functioning of one system or process by means of the functioning of another". A simulation can therefore be viewed as a way of deriving the possible outcome of an action (or process). Everything from weather to investment markets are carefully simulated by specialized members of the particular industry using numerical models on powerful computers. Simulation and simulators are used in training and education functions as well. For instance, the military uses "war games" to simulate combat scenarios and train troops in correct protocol while universities and business schools will use "business games" to train their students in executive practices.
But how do we define Simulation Games in the video game realm? In a dry, dictionary sense we can try to call one "the imititative represesentation of the functioning of one system or process by means of the functioning of" entertainment software. However, in addition to being somewhat boring, this definition is also much too broad. Super Mario Bros. is an imitative representation of a plumber trying to rescue a princess by means of the function of entertainment software, but we would be hard pressed to find someone who would label it as a simulation game. It does little to explain what the simulation genre means to gamers.
First, we will try to refine our definition for simulation games. Then we will look briefly at their history and evolution to their current state.
One Gamer's Sim Game Is Another's Action Game
As previously mentioned, at its basest level, every video game has a modicum of simulation quality to it, but to the average gamer, only a small portion of those titles would ever be labeled a simulation game. There is no real defined line that can distinguish a simulation game from other genres, but rather it is a spectrum of concepts that plays itself out to the individual gamer. Of course, some titles are so geared towards the raw definition we cited that there is little to no debate over their being a simulation game – but that is not always the case.
Consider the balance of realism and entertainment as the defining line for simulation. Possibly one of the best examples to examine would be in a racing series such as Gran Turismo or Forza Motorsport. The realism of having to deal with everything from worn tires to custom suspension altering the handling of your vehicle could quite easily push these titles into the realm of being called a simulation game. On the other hand, we would be hard pressed to find someone arguing for the simulation title to be applied to other racing games such as Carmageddon or Out Run.
This balance between realism and entertainment (or raw action, if you will) is really the pinnacle in defining just what a simulation game is, and this is also the concept from which we will view the rest of our discussion.