From Courtney Marchelletta,
Your Guide to Computer Sim Games.
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Almost everyone can find a simulation game to play! Simulation games have action, combat, management, and strategic. If you are completely new to this genre of computer games, get ready for some fun. This guide will help you get started and learn more about simulation gaming.

A computer simulation is...
By definition a simulation is an imitation. So computer simulation games, are games that imitate a real-life situation. Another way to think about it is that sim games attempt to recreate a past event. But games don't always stick to that definition, sometimes they attempt to create a situation that we may someday be faced with. For example, "Moon Tycoon" is a game in which you create a city on the moon. Now this is not realistic right now, but perhaps someday.

Within the simulation games genre there are sub-genres. Because of the variety of simulation games, there is probably at least one sub-genre that you may enjoy, whether it be flight sims or life.

Life Sims
Life sims directly imitate life itself, whether it be daily life or playing god. This is a great genre that has grown drastically over the last few years. Popular games of this type include "The Sims 2" and "Black and White 2."

Business
This section covers a lot of area, including games that are also included in the city building category. Business games deal with economical situations, and managing your own business.

City Building
In city building games, you design the layout, make laws, collect taxes, and try to build your city. Gameplay varies from different game to game, but the premise is the same, to develop a successful city.

Flight Sims
Flight sims give you the chance to be a pilot of just about any plane or helicopter you've wanted to fly. The genre of flight simulations has come so far over the last few years. The graphics are intense, many playing options, and realism keep flight sim fans going back for more.

Racing
Racing sims action and great multi-player capabilities. You can race around a track or on courses with beautiful scenic backgrounds. The best part about racing sims? Playing against your friends on a LAN or through the Internet.