simulation game Archives

AppWizard

June 14, 2026

Spore devs say the evolution game’s previews were more ambitious than what they were actually making, and they ‘built a fantasy in people’s minds that was unachievable’

Spore was initially envisioned as an expansive simulation game that allowed players to evolve from a unicellular organism to a spacefaring alien, but the final product turned out to be a collection of sci-fi minigames with a cartoonish character creation engine. The game's creator, Will Wright, introduced concepts like "procedural verbs" for evolving societies, but many of these ideas were not fully realized in the final version. Features such as an aquatic stage were cut from the game, which has led to ongoing interest and documentation by fans. Despite mixed reviews, Spore has influenced contemporary games, including the roguelike Everything Is Crab.

AppWizard

June 14, 2026

Frontier is making a Planet game that isn’t about zoos or rollercoasters, and has just filed trademarks for Planet Resort and Planet Festival

Frontier has announced a new management simulation game that will not focus on zoos or rollercoasters, generating speculation among fans about potential titles. Popular suggestions include Planet Resort, Planet Festival, and Planet City. Frontier has filed nine new trademarks, including Planet Resort and Planet Festival, while Planet City is not among them. Other trademarks include Planet Farm, Planet Vacation, Planet Dinosaur, Planet Prehistoric, Planet Fantasy, Planet Mythical Creatures, and Planet Dragon. The new game is expected to be released around 2028, following the launch of Planet Zoo 2 later this year.

AppWizard

June 13, 2026

1991 NES and PC Strategy Game is Coming to Modern Consoles

L’Empereur, a classic turn-based historical strategy game, has been re-released through the Console Archives project on the Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5. The game allows players to take on the role of Napoleon Bonaparte during the Napoleonic Wars, focusing on conquering Europe while managing military and civil affairs. The Console Archives edition is priced at .99 and includes enhancements such as customizable button layouts, rapid-fire settings, multiple save points, and a rewind function. It also features screen layout adjustments and filters to replicate the look of CRT televisions.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

Retro Arcade Shop Simulator Brings the Neon 80s to PC

The Retro Arcade Shop Simulator, developed by Alt Tab Game, will debut on PC with a demo available on June 11. The full version is expected in 2026/2027, with a console release in 2027. The game allows players to build and manage their own retro arcade, featuring 28 types of entertainment options and interactive machines. The demo includes four progression levels, six types of attractions, and customization options for layout and decor. Players can manage a cafeteria and hire staff. The minimum system requirements for the PC demo include Windows 10 (64-bit), Intel Core i3-14100F or AMD Ryzen 5 5560U, 8 GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 5600, and 8 GB of available SSD space.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

What’s the plan with Halo, Xbox?

This year's Xbox Showcase featured several highlights, including Marcus in casual attire, a preview of the new Gears of War installment titled E-Day, and the introduction of Clockwork Revolution, a steampunk RPG. Vivarium, a life simulation game with Ghibli-like aesthetics, also garnered attention. However, there was disappointment regarding the Halo franchise, particularly with the new Campaign Evolved, which includes Operation Meteorite—three missions set before the main story. While gameplay remains enjoyable, concerns about innovation within the Halo series were noted amidst the showcase's overall excitement and advancements in gaming.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

Into the Wind is a gorgeous, Ghibli-esque adventure about taking over your missing uncle’s delivery service, but with more dogfighting in your aeroplane bike

Into the Wind is an action-adventure and delivery simulation game developed by Bloom & Bloom Games, which debuted at the PC Gaming Show. It features an open-world environment filled with exploration and delivery opportunities, inspired by the artistry of Studio Ghibli films. The game is published by Three Friends, a new publisher with a team that includes talent from games like Minecraft, Deep Rock Galactic, and Valheim. Players can wishlist Into the Wind on Steam in anticipation of its upcoming release.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

The vampire farm sim I’ve been anticipating for 3 years just released an even bigger, better demo for everyone to try before it launches next month

Moonlight Peaks, a farmlife simulation game with supernatural elements, is set to launch on July 7. A demo is currently available on Steam, allowing players to explore the game before its official release. The demo features a partially upgraded farm and introduces players to a town with werewolves, witches, vampires, and seers. It includes spellcasting and shapeshifting mechanics. The gameplay is more directed compared to similar titles like Stardew Valley, and it is recommended to use a gamepad for optimal experience. Players can purchase the full game on Steam upon its launch.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

Fourleaf Fields is an adorable little farming sim with a spill-the-tea mechanic

Fourleaf Fields is a new farming simulation game showcased at the Wholesome Direct, featuring a unique gossip mechanic that enhances social interactions within the game. A gameplay trailer has been released, highlighting its vibrant world and engaging mechanics. The game aims to blend traditional farming gameplay with innovative social dynamics.

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

The cozy game launches of June are a really crafty bunch

June features several cozy game launches, including: - Puni the Florist (June 8): A flower shop simulation where players craft bouquets and interact with townsfolk. - Beastro (June 11): An animal-based cooking simulation set in the village of Palo Pori, featuring cooking minigames and a cast of characters. - Witchspire (June 10): A co-op crafting game that allows players to explore a magical open world and engage in resource gathering and base building. - Papa's Mocharia Deluxe (June 2): A strategic barista simulation game. - Solarpunk (June 8): A crafting game focused on renewable energy on a floating sky island. Key events in June include: - Wholesome Direct: A showcase for cozy games on June 6. - Steam Next Fest: Running from June 15 to June 22, featuring demos of various cozy games.

BetaBeacon

May 29, 2026

Inazuma Eleven Cross Game Launches for iOS, Android on June 9

Inazuma Eleven: Cross will be launching for iOS and Android on June 9, featuring a new protagonist named Yō Shiosawa and an original story. The Japan National Team 2026 Project will be included in the game, along with new commemorative artwork and the addition of Mark Evans and Jude Sharp in Japan's national team uniform. The fifth free major update "New Kick-Off" DLC for Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road will be available on June 11. Characters from Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road will not transfer to Inazuma Eleven: Cross, but will be saved for a future sequel game.