Here’s the games I have reviewed so far on the Nintendo Switch in each genre, from best to worst. Note: If multiple games have the same score, they will be sorted alphabetically.

1. Simulation (Management / God Simulations)
2. Simulation (Misc.)

Simulation (Management / God Simulations)

Game	Genre	Grade
Animal Crossing: New Horizons	Management Sim	A+
tl;dr Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a light-hearted, family-friendly, casual Management Sim where the time and date in the game is the same as in real life, and where players perform small tasks and customize their home and their village. This entry is a huge step forward for the series, adding many new mechanics and gameplay systems that greatly improve the game’s customization elements while giving added quality of life enhancements as well. There constantly seems like something new and fun to do, with new surprises seemingly every day. Unless you have a problem with more relaxed, slower-paced games, you should consider this game a must-have.
Moonlighter	Top-Down Roguelike Action-RPG / Management Sim	A
tl;dr Moonlighter is an experience somewhere in between a game like Zelda and a game like Stardew Valley, where you balance dungeon raids and shop management. What that amounts to is an addictive experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts, and a game that should be played by fans of either genre.
Stardew Valley	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	A
tl;dr Stardew Valley is a “Farming RPG” much like Harvest Moon, but there’s a huge wealth of stuff to do here, with a charming presentation, a constant stream of new things to change up the experience, and even a wonderful online co-op mode. If you want a fun, mellow experience on the Switch, consider this game a must-have.
Backpack Hero	Roguelike / Turn-Based RPG / Management Simulation	A-
tl;dr Backpack Hero is a game that combines Roguelike, Turn-Based RPG, and Management Simulation elements, with a strong emphasis on organizing equipment in your backpack for the most effective results in battle. The way this game takes a classic RPG mechanic and expands on it to make it such a major element of the gameplay here is absolutely inspired. There are a few areas where this game could do with a bit more work, but overall this game is an absolute delight, and one that is definitely worth a look for fans of RPGs and Roguelikes.
Ball x Pit	Arcade / 2-Stick Shooter / Roguelike / Simulation	A-
tl;dr Ball x Pit is a game that blends a wide variety of disparate genres, such as 2-Stick Shooter, Arcade, Roguelike, and Management Simulation, resulting in something that is wildly unique, offering a lot of depth, yet still highly-accessible and easy to pick up. Consider this a must-have if you’re craving originality, and something still worth checking out even if you just like some of the genres I named.
Fae Farm	Action-RPG / Management Simulation	A-
tl;dr Fae Farm is a family-friendly “Farming RPG”-style Action-RPG and Management Sim that has players travelling to a magical island surrounded by whirlpools where they will find a pleasant community waiting for them… and of course a vacant farm too. Apart from the “magical” themes, this game doesn’t really do anything particularly new or transformative for the genre. Rather, it takes the standard gameplay of the genre and does that very well, with a wonderful polished presentation. It’s not anything truly groundbreaking, but it is still one of the best games I’ve played in this genre.
Farm Together	Management Sim	A-
tl;dr Farm Together is a Farm Management Sim that has a lot of the trappings of a microtransaction-filled game, but without the microtransactions. Instead, you’ll find it to have nice, relaxing gameplay that puts the focus on playing the game a little bit at a time and gradually watching your farm grow over time. If you’re cool with that sort of thing, this game could surprise you with how enjoyable it is.
Islanders	Management Sim / Puzzle	A-
tl;dr Islanders is a family-friendly Management Sim-style game with Puzzle elements that has players placing buildings on procedurally-generated islands. This is a game that boils down the Management Sim genre to an elegant simplicity that makes for a truly compelling experience, and one that is absolutely worth the tiny $5 price tag, even if it could stand to have a little more depth.
Islanders: New Shores	Management Simulation / Puzzle	A-
tl;dr Islanders: New Shores is a Management Simulation and Puzzle game that is a follow-up to the original Islanders, and it takes the gameplay of the original game and adds multiple new elements for deeper gameplay, as well as some welcome new options. It’s hard to say whether this deeper gameplay is superior to the more simple and straightforward original game, but overall this is still a great game and an excellent sequel well worth playing for anyone looking for a relaxing game in this combination of genres.
Jurassic World Evolution: Complete Edition	Management Sim	A-
tl;dr Jurassic World Evolution: Complete Edition is a Management Sim that has you creating and managing your own dinosaur park, controlling everything from the layout and concession prices to the DNA of the dinos themselves. This is a gorgeous and detailed game with a fantastic presentation and wonderfully immersive gameplay… in docked mode. In handheld mode, it’s another story, as the low resolutions mar the otherwise superb experience this game offers. However, beyond this and a few other minor flaws, this is exactly what I’m looking for in a Jurassic Park simulator on the Nintendo Switch.
Let’s Build a Zoo	Management Simulation	A-
tl;dr Let’s Build a Zoo is a Management Simulation about building up and running a zoo. The core gameplay here is solid, epitomizing the genre formula well. However, on top of this, you also have some clever game mechanics and a wonderful presentation. The result is one of the best entries this genre has seen on Nintendo Switch, although it’s certainly not without its flaws. However, if you like Management Simulations, this is definitely one you won’t want to miss.
Mini Metro	Puzzle / Simulation	A-
tl;dr Mini Metro is a superb puzzle/sim game that has you drawing the map for a subway/lightrail as more stops and more passengers demand to be delivered swiftly to their destination. Add in a clean, simple graphical interface perfectly suited for the game, and a soothing soundtrack, and you have a real winner here. The only thing that’s keeping this from puzzle perfection is a lack of options and stiff controls.
Rune Factory 4 Special	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	A-
tl;dr Rune Factory 4 Special is an upgraded port of the 3DS “Farming RPG” that adds a greater focus on dungeon crawling, combat, and a more traditional JRPG-style story. However, what really sets it apart from other games in the genre is its charming characters and writing, as well as its very user-friendly gameplay. Fans of Stardew Valley and Japanese-style Action-RPGs in general would do well to give this game a look.
911 Operator	Simulation / Strategy	B+
tl;dr 911 Operator is a Strategy Simulation game where you are directing funds and dispatch for local emergency responders. This game is addictive and compelling, and when it works, it is a unique and thrilling experience, but it also has some pretty serious interface, control, and design issues that mar the experience. It’s still a good game, but one that could have been much better.
Discounty	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	B+
tl;dr Discounty is an Action-RPG and Management Simulation that has players managing their own grocery store while assisting townsfolk with various tasks. This is a good entry in this corner of the “cozy game” space, though it doesn’t do anything too out of the norm for the genre. Still, if you’re a fan of this style of game, I think Discounty is a no-brainer for you.
Dream Park Story	Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Dream Park Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a theme park, and while this game bears developer Kairosoft’s usual eccentricities and simplified elements, this is overall a superb take on the genre that gives players a lot of options and freedom to create their own dream theme park. If you enjoy this style of game, this is absolutely worth checking out.
Dredge	Action-RPG / Simulation / Horror	B+
tl;dr Dredge is a game that combines a Fishing Simulation-style game with Action-RPG elements and Lovecraftian Horror, making for a really unique blend of “cozy game” and a tense and nerve-wracking experience whether you’re our fishing in the daytime or at night. These elements are balanced surprisingly well, and while the pacing and progression can be slow in places, overall I found this to be an excellent game.
Epic Astro Story	Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Epic Astro Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a space colony, and so it is fitting that this game marks developer Kairosoft exploring new territory as well. There are some really creative elements here, and some surprisingly compelling gameplay. Fans of the genre may find this game to be a bit lacking in depth, but for its low $12 price tag this is a superb Management Simulation.
Loop Hero	Roguelike / RPG / Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Loop Hero is a game that combines elements of the Roguelike, RPG, and Management Simulation genres into unique gameplay that has players changing the terrain on an endless loop a hero walks along fighting monsters. There are areas where the game could have done with a few adjustments, but overall this is a highly compelling and wildly original game well worth playing.
Mega Mall Story	Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Mega Mall Story is a Management Simulation where players manage the placement of stores within a mall and guide those stores’ growth, with gameplay that’s sorta’ like a combination of a Theme Park-style customer service Sim and a side-view single-building placement Sim such as Sim Tower. While it’s not without its problems, the gameplay here is surprisingly compelling, and well worth the $12 price.
Mega Mall Story 2	Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Mega Mall Story 2 is a Management Simulation where players build and manage a growing shopping mall. This is a solid follow-up to one of the best Kairosoft games in the genre, one that doesn’t dramatically change the formula, but adds enough to that formula to make for a good successor. If you’re a fan of Management Simulation titles who isn’t put off by some of Kairosoft’s eccentricities, you should definitely check this one out.
Nova Lands	Management Simulation / Action-RPG	B+
tl;dr Nova Lands is a Management Simulation with Action-RPG elements that puts players in the role of an astronaut crash-landing on an alien planet, gathering resources to survive and increasingly grow your production abilities, with a strong focus on automation as you create bots to do your work for you. However, even with this being the case, you’ll still be doing plenty of running around to ensure everything is operating properly, and the game sadly lacks multiplayer it could greatly benefit from. However, overall this is a superb entry in the Management Simulation genre well worth seeking out.
Pool Slide Story	Management Simulation	B+
tl;dr Pool Slide Story is a Management Simulation where players build and manage a growing water park. While it still feels restricted by elements of Kairosoft’s usual formula for the genre, this is one of their best games yet in the genre, both pretty accessible and surprisingly customizable. This game doesn’t really push the genre forward in any way, but it’s still an excellent Management Simulation.
Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin	Action-Platformer / Action-RPG / Simulation	B+
tl;dr Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is a game that combines Action-Platformer, Action-RPG, and farming Simulation elements into a really unique game that does all of those things well. Of particular note is the game’s rice farming Simulation elements, which are lovingly crafted and do a great job of making this niche topic relevant, fun, and beautiful. This game certainly has its rough spots – the combat is mostly good but has moments of frustration, and the simulation can get a bit tedious. However, this is overall a unique exploration of its respective genres and well worth playing for fans of those genres.
Cafe Master Story	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Cafe Master Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a coffee shop, guiding its growth and trying different ingredient combinations to find successful new menu items. This game has its issues, such as pacing problems and Kairosoft’s usual issues. But overall, I found this to be a charming restaurant Management Simulation game, well worth playing.
Conduct Together!	Arcade / Simulation	B
tl;dr Conduct Together! is a family-friendly Arcade-style game with Simulation elements that has players using simple controls to manage multiple trains and switches. It’s a fun, challenging task of multitasking with some excellent co-op play baked right into the game design. The game’s controls never quite feel intuitive, and I wish the game expanded on its potential, but overall this is a solid “easy to learn, tough to master”-style game, and one that fans of co-op games should absolutely try.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!!	Arcade / Simulation	B
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!! is an Arcade-style game with Simulation elements that doesn’t play much like Overcooked or Cooking Mama. It’s more like a food version of Simon Says, with multiple steps for some items. The game does a good job keeping things interesting by having you manage multiple things at once, and it makes for a good co-op experience, although it’s frustrating that it doesn’t do a better job to make important information immediately accessible to players in the chaos.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 3?!	Arcade / Simulation	B
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! 3?! is an Arcade-style game with some Simulation elements that has players managing a food truck and serving orders to customers. In many ways, this is the most streamlined game yet in the series, and while this comes with positive and negative qualities, one unambiguously positive addition is the new “Chill Mode” which lets players take on the game’s challenges at a more relaxed pace. Overall, it’s hard to say whether 2 or 3 is the better game, but I can definitely see this being the better pick for more casual players.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2/3 Bundle!!	Compilation / Arcade / Simulation	B
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2/3 Bundle!! contains the two named games, both entries in the Cook, Serve, Delicious series of Arcade-style games with Simulation elements, and both of these games are quite good, with each having their own individual strengths. The bundle is mostly a good deal too, though sometimes the sale price is actually more than the prices of the individual games. Be sure to compare prices before you buy.
Dave the Diver	Action-RPG / Arcade / Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Dave the Diver combines Action-RPG sections where players dive into the sea to catch various fish, and Arcade-style Restaurant sections with some Management Simulation elements when you’re serving up those fish to clamoring customers. The gameplay in both sections is good, and both work well together, but each has some flaws that hamper the enjoyment, and the game overall has problems with frequent loading screens and pacing-stopping character conversations. This is still a fun and original game, but these small annoyances do gradually add up.
Dinkum	Action-RPG / Management Sim	B
tl;dr Dinkum is an Action-RPG and Management Simulation that has players settling an Australian-inspired locale, with gameplay that feels like a combination of games like Minecraft and Animal Crossing. And while the pacing has issues and there are some tedious gameplay choices here, overall I think this is a solid take on the genre worth checking out.
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time Nintendo	Open-World Action-RPG / Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Fantasy Life i is an Action-RPG and follow-up to the Nintendo 3DS original game. This game is burdened with numerous issues, with the first 4-5 hours or so being pretty terrible. However, players who stick with it will find that this is a game that has massive depth, a ton of variety, and plenty of things to see and do. You have to put up with a lot of frustrations to enjoy this, but if you have the patience to do so, I think this will be worth it for you.
Forest Camp Story	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Forest Camp Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a campsite, and shortly later also a camping good store. The early moments in this game feel uneven since they lack the revenue-generating store, but overall this is a fun take on Kairosoft’s usual Management Simulation formula that’s well worth trying out.
Forest Golf Planner	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Forest Golf Planner is a Management Simulation where players manage the development of their golf club as well as the golf courses attached to it. While this is a bit simplistic and limited, it’s overall an enjoyable Management Simulation that gives you some good options for custom-creating your own golf course.
Game Dev Tycoon	Management Sim	B
tl;dr Game Dev Tycoon is a Management Sim where players make smart decisions as a game designer to try to design successful, profitable games. It’s a fun entry in the genre, and one that makes for an interesting commentary on the videogame industry, but there are areas it could stand to be a bit deeper, and the $15 price tag is a bit steep for a 7 year-old game that’s significantly cheaper on other platforms.
Harvestella	Action-RPG / Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Harvestella is an Action-RPG with Management Simulation elements in the vein of “Farming Sim” games like Stardew Valley… however, those farming elements are not nearly as pronounced as you might expect given the game’s title. Add to this a pretty tedious opening chapter, and many players may be disappointed by Harvestella… but if you stick with it, it does become better, and the phenomenal presentation is plenty enough reason to stick around until it does.
March to a Million	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr March to a Million is a Management Simulation where players take the role of a talent agency managing and guiding their singers to build up their careers. This game has a good mix of elements, and while I think it could stand to be even more varied, what’s here is enjoyable and works well. Fans of this genre looking for a relatively simple game with a focus on management instead of building should give this one a look.
Marenian Tavern Story: Patty and the Hungry God	Turn-Based JRPG / Management Sim	B
tl;dr Marenian Tavern Story mixes a traditional JRPG with tavern management elements for a compelling game that’s surprisingly fun to play, despite its poor localization, presentation, and limited features. If you’ve played through games like Stardew Valley and are looking for something similar, this game is well worth a look.
Mini Trains	Puzzle / Simulation	B
tl;dr Mini Trains is a Puzzle game with Simulation elements where you build train tracks to direct trains to hit multiple points without crashing. It’s okay, but there’s so much potential for more here that it feels like a missed opportunity.
Pocket Harvest	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Pocket Harvest is a Management Simulation where players manage a farm. This game is fairly simple and accessible, while still offering a good amount of depth and options for expanding your farming operation, without many of Kairosoft’s usual frustrations. And while I don’t think this game is in any way going to revolutionize the genre, I still think it’s an enjoyable take on the genre that’s well worth a look.
Prison Architect: Nintendo Switch Edition	Management Sim	B
tl;dr Prison Architect is a Management Sim in the vein of Sim City and Theme Hospital where players build and manage the inner-workings of a prison. There are a lot of options and intricate systems to play with here, and although there are definitely multiple places that the game could be improved on, in the end fans of the genre should be pretty happy with this one.
Project Highrise: Architects Edition	Management Sim	B
tl;dr Project Highrise is a Management Sim along the same lines as Sim Tower, that has you supervising a building as you grow it and manage its tenants. The presentation here is a bit bland, and there are areas where it could do with improvement, but all told this is still an excellent entry in the genre with a lot of depth and variety to pursue, and it’s well worth trying out.
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma	Action-RPG / Management Simulation	B
tl;dr Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is an Action-RPG and “Farming RPG” Management Simulation that brings the long-running series in a new direction with a traditional Japanese-inspired aesthetic, and evolves both the combat and the farming gameplay in mostly-excellent new ways. There are some minor gameplay frustrations, and the Nintendo Switch version has performance issues, but overall this is a solid new entry in this series and well worth a look for fans of its respective genres.
Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town	Top-Down Management Sim / RPG	B
tl;dr Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town is a Farming RPG much like Stardew Valley and Harvest Moon, and it is an extremely polished entry in the genre that does pretty much everything it sets out to do quite well. Unfortunately, nothing it sets out to do is particularly original. So even though this is a solid entry in the genre, it’s hard to give it a hearty recommendation when there are more inspired Farming RPGs on the Nintendo Switch you could be playing instead.
The Manga Works	Management Simulation	B
tl;dr The Manga Works is a Management Simulation where players must choose what mix of topic, setting, and theme will make for a popular comic, all while balancing out your artist’s personal needs and their available time. This is a clever take on one of Kairosoft’s classic gameplay formulas that works very well here, and players who enjoy the “management” side of Management Simulation games will want to give this a try.
Wylde Flowers	Management Sim / RPG	B
tl;dr Wylde Flowers is a family-friendly “Farming RPG”-style Management Simulation with less of a focus on the farming and more of a focus on running errands for townsfolk and partaking in a story about a young woman helping her grandmother and becoming the newest member of the village’s secretive coven of witches. This game’s presentation is highly-polished and the gameplay is extremely easygoing and accessible, making it ideal for newcomers to the genre, though more experienced players may find it lacking in options and customizability. In either case, Wylde Flowers is a solid addition to this genre.
Cities: Skylines – Nintendo Switch Edition	Management Sim	B-
tl;dr Cities: Skylines is the “Sim City killer” Management Sim that took the PC by storm in 2015, and it is every bit as fun and compelling on the Nintendo Switch. However, here that fun is heavily weighed down by a slew of technical flaws that cripple the framerates, make the resolution a mess, and make the interface a temperamental pain to deal with. It’s still loads of fun, but if you can play the PC version, that is clearly the better way to go.
Cook, Serve, Delicious!	Arcade / Simulation	B-
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! is an Arcade-style game with some Simulation elements that has players managing a restaurant and serving orders to customers. I think this is a more frantic game than its sequel, and it has a lot less in the way of variety, but it’s still an enjoyable game that’s worth a look.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 1/2 Bundle!!	Compilation / Arcade / Simulation	B-
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! 1/2 Bundle! contains the first two games in the Cook, Serve, Delicious series of Arcade-style games with Simulation elements, and both of these games are quite good. The bundle, on the other hand, is of dubious value, and you’ll want to compare the price of this bundle to the price of getting each game on its own. You might just find it less expensive to do the latter.
Cook, Serve, Delicious, Trilogy!	Compilation / Arcade / Simulation	B-
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious, Trilogy! contains the first three games in the Cook, Serve, Delicious series of Arcade-style games with Simulation elements, and all three of these games are quite good. The bundle, on the other hand, is only a good deal if you don’t bother waiting for sales, because its sale price is more than the individual cost of the games when they’re on sale. In other words, if you really want to save money, you’re better off getting the individual games when they go on sale.
Cult of the Lamb	Action-RPG / Roguelike / Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Cult of the Lamb is an Action-RPG with strong Roguelike and Management Simulation elements, in which players take the role of a lamb charged with managing a cult to worship an ancient deity, while heading out to gather resources and slaughter enemies. The presentation and Management Sim parts of this game are original and quite enjoyable, but the Action-RPG sections of the game are less successful thanks to issues with unclear hit detection and this game’s performance on Nintendo Switch. While there’s still plenty to enjoy here, I feel like there are other games that manage to do the individual elements of this game better, even if there’s nothing else that offers quite the same overall package.
Dream House Days DX	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Dream House Days DX is a Management Simulation where players manage an apartment complex, trying to ensure that everything remains profitable while also nurturing the lives of your residents. This is kinda’ a bizarre approach to the genre, but the result is somewhat like a simplified take on The Sims’ formula, and if that appeals to you then you may want to give this game a look.
EcoGnomix	Board Game / Roguelike / Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr EcoGnomix is a game that combines Board Game, Roguelike, and Management Simulation elements in gameplay that’s primarily about sending small teams of gnomes into a mine to gather resources while fending off ravenous bats. There’s some really compelling and original gameplay here, but I feel like each of the main components of this game are flawed in some way, keeping the game from reaching its full potential. It’s still fun and original enough to be worth a look though, especially if you’re a fan of its individual genres.
Game Dev Story	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Game Dev Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a game developer, deciding who to hire and fire, how to train employees, and what games to make. This game is sadly lacking a lot of options, and things become easy and brainless once you find what game combos work best and just keep reusing them. However, despite this game’s flaws, it’s still surprisingly compelling, and fans of the genre looking for something more simple to play as a time-waster will likely find this well worth getting.
Gnomes Garden	Simulation	B-
tl;dr Gnomes Garden is a Simulation-style game that has the look and feel of a bad mobile port, but the gameplay is surprisingly enjoyable, making players focus on the order with which to send workers on tasks. It definitely feels like there could have been more here, as well as a better job porting it to Nintendo Switch specifically, but overall this is an enjoyable game that might be worth a look for Simulation fans craving something a bit more simple and puzzle-like.
High Sea Saga DX	Management Simulation / RPG	B-
tl;dr High Sea Saga DX is a mix of RPG and Management Simulation where players command a royal naval vessel exploring the surrounding seas and taking on threats like pirates and sea monsters. It’s unusual in ways that can be confusing, and it’s not always clear how to go about doing things, but fans of this game’s respective genres may find it to be a unique and refreshing take on these genres.
Kamibako	Turn-Based JRPG / Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Kamibako is a Turn-Based JRPG with some Management Simulation elements, and there are some color-matching Puzzle Game elements as well, all in a story about a “Restorer” sent by a goddess to purify “fragmentation” spreading across a land. There are some ambitious gameplay elements here, and a lot of variety, but while this game is trying to do a lot, everything it’s doing seems to have problems. While it’s still unique enough to be worth a look, it’s a shame that we couldn’t see what this game would have been with all of its problems addressed.
My Time at Portia	Action-RPG / Management Sim	B-
tl;dr My Time at Portia is and Action-RPG / Management Sim much like Harvest Moon and Stardew Valley, with more of a focus on gathering resources and crafting than farming (though you can farm as well). There’s plenty of variety and some really great gameplay at the core of this game, but unfortunately the game is plagued with terrible interface problems, loading screens, and numerous other frustrations that sap much of the fun out of the experience. It’s still good, but it should have been so much better.
Ninja Village	Management Simulation / RPG / Strategy	B-
tl;dr Ninja Village is a Management Simulation with RPG and Strategy elements where players manage the growth of a town expanding to become a kingdom. Each of its individual elements is underdeveloped, and the game has plenty of issues, yet despite this it’s an enjoyable experience overall with a lot of variety. Fans of Management Simulations may want to give this one a look.
Palia	Action-RPG / Management Simulation / MMO	B-
tl;dr Palia is a free-to-play game that combines Stardew Valley-style “Farming Sim” gameplay with an MMO-style world and multiplayer. Overall, this works quite well, and although the pacing is a bit slow, there’s plenty to do and a big world to explore. Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch version of the game has some pretty bad graphical issues and buggy gameplay problems that drag down what is otherwise a pretty pleasant experience. Since it’s free, Nintendo Switch owners may still find this game worth playing, though I do think the PC version is likely to be a better alternative.
Rune Factory 5	Action-RPG / Management Sim	B-
tl;dr Like its predecessors, Rune Factory 5 combines the “Farming RPG” genre with more traditional Action-RPG elements, with this game bringing the series into 3D. The trip to 3D has resulted in some unfortunate performance issues, and worse, much of the charm and personality of the series has been wiped clean, leaving this game feeling somewhat generic. However, the core gameplay is still excellent, giving players tons of stuff to do. If you’re a fan of Farming RPGs, this game is well worth a look.
Shiny Ski Resort	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Shiny Ski Resort is a Management Simulation where players manage their own ski resort, both managing the indoors facilities as well as gradually expanding their slopes and making them more enticing for skiers. This split focus is an interesting take on the genre that helps to set this game apart, but Shiny Ski Resort unfortunately suffers from Kairosoft’s usual lack of clarity. Overall this is still a solid entry in the genre, but not a welcoming one for newcomers.
Steamworld Build	Management Sim	B-
tl;dr Steamworld Build takes the long-running franchise to yet another new genre – Management Sims. This game has you building up a mining town peopled by anthropomorphic steam-powered robots, while also managing the mining operation underground. Both above- and below-ground feature different takes on Management Sim gameplay, and both are quite good. However, Steamworld Build’s heavy reliance on everything being connected via a complex resource chain makes performing even simple tasks complicated, and while the result is still enjoyable, it’s detail-oriented in a way that not everyone will appreciate.
The Pyraplex	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr The Pyraplex is a Management Simulation where players manage the building of a pyramid, which in this game acts as an ancient Egyptian-themed shopping mall. This game does put an effort into trying to transform the Mega Mall Story formula into something different, but many of these new elements detract more than they add to the experience, and the result is a game that it’s hard to recommend to anyone but those most enthusiastic about Egypt-themed stuff – if that’s not especially appealing to you, you’re better off sticking with Mega Mall Story.
The Ramen Sensei	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr The Ramen Sensei is a Management Simulation where players manage a ramen shop, with most of the game’s focus being on developing ramen dishes with the best mix of ingredients. While this game bears some of Kairosoft’s frequent issues (namely, important information not being provided to the player), overall this is a solid business Simulation, and one ramen fans in particular may want to check out.
Two Point Hospital	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Two Point Hospital is a solid Management Sim that follows in the footsteps of Theme Hospital and provides a solid entry in the genre with a great presentation, albeit one with some flaws and frustrations that mar an otherwise excellent experience. Still, for fans of the genre, this game is still well worth checking out.
Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus Double Pack	Compilation / Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus Double Pack is a Compilation containing the two named games, both Management Simulations. These are both good but imperfect entries in the genre, and Two Point Hospital is the Jumbo version, including all the extra content. The bundle is a good price too, though players looking to save the most money will want to compare sale prices of the individual games.
Valthirian Arc: Hero School Story 2	Turn-Based JRPG / Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Hero School Story 2 combines Turn-Based JRPG gameplay and Management Simulation elements in a story about building up a thriving medieval fantasy hero school. This is a massive improvement over the first game, and while it still has a laundry list of problems, it’s really enjoyable to balance adventuring and managing the resources of your hero school. Players who find that premise interesting will likely find this game worth trying out.
Wild Park Manager	Management Simulation	B-
tl;dr Wild Park Manager is a Management Simulation where players manage a sort of open-range petting zoo of sorts. It’s an odd take on the genre and it will take a bit of time to get a feel for this game’s approach to the genre, but once you do I think you’ll find this is mostly a fun and original take on the genre that’s worth trying out.
Basketball Club Story	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Basketball Club Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a basketball team while also building up a training park to make money from fans and tourists. This won’t satisfy players looking for an in-depth Sports Simulation title, and even within Kairosoft’s standard formula this game doesn’t do anything particularly exceptional. But basketball fans looking for a more casual (and slightly odd) Management Simulation may find this appealing.
Beastie Bay DX	Management Simulation / Turn-Based Monster-Collecting JRPG	C+
tl;dr Beastie Bay DX is a Management Simulation with Turn-Based Monster-Collecting JRPG elements, which is a really inspired mix of genres that ultimately doesn’t live up to its potential because both of those two halves are under-developed. This is still an enjoyable game, but it could have been so much better.
Blocky Farm	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Blocky Farm is a family-friendly Management Simulation that has players running a “voxel”-style blocky-looking farm with casual Farmville-style real-time mechanics. The core gameplay here is relaxing and enjoyable, but it’s marred by clunky menus, as well as some restrictive gameplay design that seems partly a result of earlier microtransaction-driven versions of the game. The Nintendo Switch release lacks that monetization, but the game design still suffers from it all the same. This isn’t a terrible game, but I can’t recommend it over the similar Farm Together.
Burger Bistro Story	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Burger Bistro Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a growing burger restaurant chain, guiding its growth and trying different ingredient combinations to find successful new menu items in different regions. There are some good ideas here, but the way this game slowly parcels out the currencies players need to enact goals hurts the pacing and limits choice. This is still an enjoyable game, but it definitely seems like it could have been much better.
Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Doraemon Dorayaki Shop Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a Japanese confections shop, deciding which sweets to cook, arranging the restaurant, and trying to appeal to customers, featuring characters and story elements from the long-running Japanese Doraemon franchise. This game has a good amount of variety and can be quite enjoyable, but it plays with an absurdly rushed pace that refuses to give players time to absorb information before they’re rushed onto the next thing, and the game’s terrible localization is a problem too. Overall, there’s a good Management Simulation here, but the game is too hurried to let you enjoy it.
Fabledom	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Fabledom is a Management Simulation that has players building their own kingdom from the ground up. At its core this is an enjoyable experience, but this game is constantly making players jump through one hoop after another just to accomplish even the simplest of tasks. Plus, this game looks pretty ugly on Nintendo Switch. In spite of all of this, it’s not a bad game, but you have better options, and if you want this game you’re better off getting it on another platform.
Hot Springs Story 2	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Hot Springs Story 2 is a Management Simulation where players manage a hot springs resort and hotel. There are minor improvements over the original Hot Springs Story, but not enough to truly distinguish this game. And the original game wasn’t one of Kairosoft’s best titles either, so it’s hard to recommend to play this marginally-improved sequel.
Magazine Mogul	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Magazine Mogul is a Management Simulation where players try to pair subject matter, target audience, and location for articles in a news magazine in the hopes of increasing sales. It’s a decent Management Simulation that reuses the formula of Game Dev Story, but doesn’t do enough to truly differentiate itself. Still, if you’re a fan of the genre you may find this worth a look.
Monster Harvest	Management Simulation / Monster Collecting Turn-Based RPG	C+
tl;dr Monster Harvest is a game that combines a Stardew Valley-style Management Sim and a Pokemon-style Monster Collecting Turn-Based RPG. While each of these two halves pales in comparison to what inspired it, the pairing produces something unique and worthwhile. Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from numerous small issues that make the experience more frustrating than it needs to be. This is a decent game, but the port to Nintendo Switch feels rushed.
Spiritfarer	Management Sim / Platformer	C+
tl;dr Spiritfarer is a game that combines Management Sim and Platforming elements in a game about preparing the souls of the dead for their journey to the other side. The presentation here is absolutely gorgeous, but the gameplay itself is tedious, frustrating, and slow-paced. For some, this will be absolutely perfect, and blend right in with the game’s easygoing tone, but I suspect most will find this game to be far too slow-paced to be worthwhile.
Station Manager	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr Station Manager is a Management Simulation where players develop and manage their own train station and its amenities. This game’s relatively slow pace may frustrate some players, but others may find it endearing. However, I think everyone is likely to be disappointed at how poorly this game communicates to the player how to do things. The result is a game that, while not bad, certainly feels lacking.
Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	C+
tl;dr Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life is a remake of a GameCube Action-RPG and “Farming RPG”-style Management Sim. It’s a bit slow-paced and generic, even for this genre, and all of its more subtle nuances will take time to uncover. More patient fans of the genre may find these unique features may make this game worth checking out, but most players are better starting out with other games in the genre.
Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	C+
tl;dr Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town is a “Farming RPG” much like Stardew Valley, and a remake of a beloved Game Boy Advance classic. Unfortunately, while this is a solid entry in the genre, just about everything this game does, Stardew Valley does just as well or better, and at a fraction of the price. Unless you prefer this game’s art style, there’s no reason to bother with this game when you could get Stardew Valley instead.
TV Studio Story	Management Simulation	C+
tl;dr TV Studio Story is a Management Simulation where players mix different elements in the creation of TV shows to try and produce a hit. Much of the formula this game uses was already established in, and done better by, Game Dev Studio, but what’s here still works well enough, and players enticed by this game’s theme will likely to find it a decent take on the idea, if a bit limited and confusing in parts.
Two Point Campus	Management Sim	C+
tl;dr Two Point Campus is a Management Simulation and a follow-up to Two Point Hospital, but with players managing a whimsical college campus instead of a whimsical medical facility. This is mostly a solid entry in the genre, but it’s poorly-optimized for Nintendo Switch, doesn’t do enough to distance itself from its predecessor, and doesn’t fix the issues its predecessor had. Between the two, I recommend you play Two Point Hospital first, and only if you’re still craving more of the same should you proceed on to Two Point Campus.
112 Operator	Simulation / Strategy	C
tl;dr 112 Operator is the sequel to 911 Operator, and plays in a similar fashion, mixing Simulation and Strategy elements as players direct a region’s police, fire, and medical first responders and manage resources as well. Unfortunately, this game not only doesn’t fix the first game’s problems, it actually makes them worse, and it also loses much of that game’s good qualities too. And the Nintendo Switch version of the game lacks content from the PC version as well. Despite the core gameplay here still being compelling, that’s far too many flaws to ignore, and I suggest you just skip this one.
Anime Studio Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Anime Studio Story is a Management Simulation where players combine settings and themes to try to make a successful anime show. This game copies much of its formula from Game Dev Story, but loses some of the gameplay elements that made that game work, resulting in something that just doesn’t find the same success of its predecessor. Unless you’re a diehard fan of this specific type of Management Simulation, I suggest you just stick with Game Dev Story instead of this.
Big Pharma	Management Sim	C
tl;dr Big Pharma is a Management Sim with some strong Puzzle Game elements that has you managing your own pharmaceutical drug company and its factory layout. The way this game has you puzzling out how to construct the most ideal and profitable drugs is inspired, but this game is an absolute mess of bugs, design flaws, and poor choices in the port to Nintendo Switch that leave it as a broken experience, even though it’s still one that has moments where it’s truly compelling. It’s worth a look for genre fans, but expect a lot of problems and frustrations.
Cafeteria Nipponica	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Cafeteria Nipponica is a Management Simulation where players manage a restaurant, deciding its menu, hiring staff, and gradually expanding and improving things. But “gradually” is the key word there, as the game slows progress to a crawl and really limiting your ability to make impactful choices. The result is a game that, while still enjoyable in its own way, definitely doesn’t feel as satisfying as it should.
Cavern Adventurers	Management Simulation / RPG	C
tl;dr Cavern Adventurers is a Management Simulation with RPG elements where players manage the construction of cave facilities and building up the town above, alternating to managing heroes scouting the cave for monsters at night. It’s a promising concept that’s sadly ruined by Kairosoft’s tendency to do a poor job explaining how any of it works. Unless you’re a huge fan of Kairosoft, skip this one.
Dungeon Village 2	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Dungeon Village 2, like its predecessor, is a Management Simulation where players manage a village in a medieval fantasy setting to cater to the needs of heroes. Unfortunately, while this game is an improvement over its predecessor, it still has multiple issues that keep it from being one of Kairosoft’s better games, with slow progression and indirect control over that progression. This isn’t a terrible game, but you have numerous better options.
Farming Simulator: Nintendo Switch Edition	First-Person Simulation	C
tl;dr Farming Simulator is a farming Simulation (of course) that tries to depict farming as realistic as possible, and it largely succeeds. However, it does so to an extent where fun is sacrificed in the name of that accuracy, and what’s left is a tedious slog of a game that will appeal to those who want that sort of thing, but most others will find it to be more trouble than it’s worth.
Gnomes Garden 2	Simulation	C
tl;dr Gnomes Garden 2, like its predecessor, is a Simulation-style game that has the look and feel of a bad mobile port, but the gameplay is surprisingly enjoyable, making players focus on the order with which to send workers on tasks. Unfortunately, this game is nearly identical to the first game, to the point where the only people I can see wanting to play this game are those who finished the first Gnomes Garden and want something else that is exactly the same. For everyone else, either play the first game or skip this series entirely.
Grand Prix Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Grand Prix Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a racing crew trying to build and race winning vehicles on Nascar-like circuits. This game uses the basic gameplay template of this developer’s earlier game, Game Dev Story, but doesn’t fix most of that game’s problems, instead adding new problems. The result is a game that feels inferior to the one it was largely based on. Unless you’re a Nascar fanatic, you’re better off playing Game Dev Story instead of this.
Hot Springs Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Hot Springs Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a Japanese-style hot springs resort, deciding what facilities to build and where to place them. This game is sadly lacking a lot of options, and other gameplay elements aren’t made clear enough. Fans of the genre may find this game worthwhile for some of its more unique elements, but most are better off getting another game in the genre.
Kairobotica	Management Simulation / Turn-Based RPG	C
tl;dr Kairobotica is a Management Simulation with Turn-Based RPG elements, and while there are some interesting ideas here, neither side of that formula ends up being very compelling. The result isn’t a bad game, but it’s far from a particularly good one.
Legends of Heropolis DX	Management Simulation / RPG	C
tl;dr Legends of Heropolis DX is a Management Simulation with Turn-Based RPG elements that’s a take on the “Super Sentai” genre, and while there are some interesting ideas here, neither side of that formula ends up being very compelling. The result isn’t a bad game, but it’s far from a particularly good one.
Nelke and the Legendary Alchemists ~Ateliers of the New World~	Management Simulation / Turn-Based JRPG	C
tl;dr Nelke and the Legendary Alchemists is a Spin-Off game within the Atelier universe, but not a part of the mainline series, and unlike other games in the series, this is a Management Simulation with only light Turn-Based JRPG elements. It’s a promising idea, but this game is both too over-complicated and too limiting and simple, a bad combination for Management Simulations. In addition, much of the series’ charm is lost due to a poor presentation. Fans of this franchise may thrill at the opportunity to see all their favorite characters again in a different setting, but most players are better off skipping this one.
Oh!Edo Towns	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Oh!Edo Towns is a Management Simulation where players manage an Edo-era Japanese town, building residences, fields to work in, and shops to trade in. It’s pretty basic as city builders go, and it’s made worse by mechanics that are poorly explained to the player, and an overall lack of information. If you absolutely must have a city builder set in a historic Japanese era, this will suffice, but there are numerous other better Management Simulation games on Nintendo Switch.
Pocket Academy	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Pocket Academy is a Management Simulation where players manage a school’s facilities and classes. Its approach to its topic matter is interesting, but the lack of clear game mechanics, a poor tutorial, and slow pacing all keep the game held back. Perhaps there’ll be better luck next semester.
Pocket Arcade Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Pocket Arcade Story is a Management Simulation where players manage their own videogame arcade, but oddly they must also focus on training up their customers to compete in tournaments. This strange split focus is compounded by some pretty slow pacing, making this game far less satisfying than one would hope for in a game about managing a videogame arcade.
Pocket League Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Grand Prix Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a racing crew trying to build and race winning vehicles on Nascar-like circuits. This game uses the basic gameplay template of this developer’s earlier game, Game Dev Story, but doesn’t fix most of that game’s problems, instead adding new problems. The result is a game that feels inferior to the one it was largely based on. Unless you’re a Nascar fanatic, you’re better off playing Game Dev Story instead of this.
Pocket Stables	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Pocket Stables is a Management Simulation where players manage a stables and training ground for race horses, as well as to attract visitors and entice them to spend money. Unfortunately, in focusing on these two different elements, it does neither very well, and as a result players are likely better off playing another game in Kairosoft’s catalogue.
Rune Factory 3 Special	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	C
tl;dr Rune Factory 3 Special is a remaster of a Nintendo DS Top-Down Action-RPG and “Farming RPG”-style Management Sim with added post-game content. While this game still has some appeal, it has aged poorly in multiple ways, especially when compared to Rune Factory 4 Special on the same platform. A less-interesting story and characters, clunky gameplay, and a lack of anything truly unique and interesting to offer makes this a game that’s only worth seeking out if you’ve played the other Rune Factory games on Nintendo Switch and are absolutely desperate for more. Otherwise, stick with Rune Factory 4 Special.
Silver Screen Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Silver Screen Story is a Management Simulation where players manage the operations of a movie studio, deciding what films to put into production, what elements go into them, and how to focus staff training. The way this game presents information is overly-confusing, and mechanically this doesn’t feel too far advanced beyond what we got in Game Dev Story. Unless you’re dead-set of a game with movies as a theme, I suggest you get that game instead.
Tennis Club Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr Tennis Club Story is a Management Simulation where players train up their staff of tennis pros while also attracting guests to pay for lessons. This game reuses the same basic formula of some games Kairosoft has been releasing since 2011, yet fixes none of the problems that formula has. I don’t recommend it.
The Sushi Spinnery	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr The Sushi Spinnery is a Management Simulation where players manage a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, deciding what to build and where to place it. This game is sadly lacking a lot of options, and other gameplay elements aren’t made clear enough. Even worse, this game is really held back by resource bottlenecks and a lack of space to build. Despite the fun theme, these limiting elements make it hard to recommend this game.
World Cruise Story	Management Simulation	C
tl;dr World Cruise Story is a Management Simulation where players manage a cruise ship, deciding what facilities to build and where to place them. This game is sadly lacking a lot of options, and other gameplay elements aren’t made clear enough. Fans of the genre may find this game worthwhile for some of its more unique elements, but most are better off getting another game in the genre.
8-Bit Farm	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr 8-Bit Farm is a Management Simulation where players manage their own farm, trying to make it an ideal tourist destination. Developer Kairosoft already made a game like this in Pocket Harvest, and that game was much better than this, thanks to 8-Bit Farm’s confusing, nonsensical design that will frequently leave players frustrated and confused. If you want a farming game from Kairosoft, get Pocket Harvest instead of this.
Astro Miner	Isometric Arcade / Simulation	C-
tl;dr Astro Miner is a game with Isometric Arcade and Simulation elements that has players using a vacuum to dig through dirt on various planets to gather resources. The premise here isn’t bad, but multiple game mechanics don’t work quite right, and the overall game design is far too repetitive. The result is a game that may entertain for a little while, but isn’t likely to hold your interest for long.
Biz Builder Delux	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Biz Builder Delux is a Management Simulation where players manage and grow one business and eventually multiple businesses, but this game does such a poor job explaining its mechanics to the player that it’s made needlessly frustrating. You have plenty of other options in this genre, play one of those instead.
Boxing Gym Story	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Boxing Gym Story is a Management Simulation where players manage the training of fighters while also building up a gym to make money. This won’t satisfy players looking for an in-depth Sports Simulation title, and even within Kairosoft’s standard formula this game is mediocre, offering players far too few choices to feel truly engaging. Unless you’re a fan of this style of game who really enjoys Boxing, this is a game to skip.
Clouds & Sheep 2	Simulation / Misc.	C-
tl;dr Clouds & Sheep 2 is a mobile-style time waster where players manage sheep and… er, clouds. Aside from some poorly-explained game mechanics, there’s little wrong with the game, but there’s also not much it does to be engaging or entertaining beyond throwing a laundry list of chores at you so you can earn the pleasure of… doing more chores. If you’re looking for a Nintendo Switch game to just kill time, this will do that, but not much more than that.
Constructor Plus	Real-Time Strategy / Management Sim	C-
tl;dr Constructor Plus is more of a Real-Time Strategy game than a Management Sim, despite appearances, and it has you taking the role of a mob boss guiding workers to expand your empire while sabotaging the efforts of a rival gang. It’s a unique concept, but one that is made hard to appreciate thanks to the unintuitive nature of many elements of this game. I feel like there’s some good gameplay at the core of this game, but it’s not easy to get to it.
Cthulhu Pub	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Cthulhu Pub is a Management Simulation that has you building and managing a pub for monsters while fending off attacking humans and Lovecraftian elder gods. It’s a great premise, but it’s brought down by a poor presentation that’s not conducive to the gameplay, lacking controls, and a poor tutorial. You have better options than this on Nintendo Switch.
Doraemon Story of Seasons	Top-Down Management Sim / RPG	C-
tl;dr Doraemon Story of Seasons marries the long-running Story of Season franchise of Farming RPG-style games with the even longer-running Doraemon manga and anime franchise. Unfortunately, this feels like a marriage that was on the rocks from day one, as the goofy and childlike characters clash with the placid tone of the rest of the game. This is made worse by finicky controls, atrocious pacing issues, and unreliable shopkeepers that make the work of running a farm feel less like fun and more like… well, work. If you want a game in this genre, you have better options on the Nintendo Switch.
Dungeon Village	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Dungeon Village is a Management Simulation where players manage a village in a medieval fantasy setting that has been plagued by monsters, trying to attract heroes and send them out on quests to fight back the menace while gathering resources to improve the village. Unfortunately, this game gives players far too little freedom to improve their town, and the pacing is dreadfully slow. You have countless better alternatives to this on Nintendo Switch.
Home Run High	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Home Run High is a Management Simulation where players manage a baseball team and try to build up their skills as they take on other local competitors. This had good potential to be a great Sports Management Simulation, but a lack of more precise influence over players, and what appears to be a pretty major bug locking off an important part of the gameplay make for a game that’s difficult to recommend.
Outlanders	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Outlanders is a Managment Simulation where players manage and grow a colony. The presentation is quaint and lovely, but the gameplay frequently does things that don’t make sense, ignoring your directives. The result is a game that’s far too frustrating for me to recommend.
Pocket Clothier	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Pocket Clothier is a Management Simulation where players manage a clothing store, deciding what store displays to build and where to place them. This game is sadly lacking a lot of options, and other gameplay elements aren’t made clear enough. Plus, what little this game does to set it apart is needlessly confusing and convoluted, and everything else we’ve already seen plenty of in numerous other Kairosoft games. This isn’t a terrible Management Simulation, but it’s definitely not one of Kairosoft’s better efforts.
Rail Route	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Rail Route is a Management Simulation where players manage rail lines connecting stations and gradually build out their network. It’s a wonderful concept with a lovely, understated presentation. However, this game has some massive design issues that make it highly user-unfriendly, and on top of that the performance on Nintendo Switch is terrible, with nasty bugs. With more polish, this could have been a superb game. But as-is, I cannot recommend it.
Startup Company Console Edition	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Startup Company is a Management Simulation game that has players managing an office launching a new website, hoping to eventually get it to become a massive success. What this mostly amounts to is a lot of micromanagement to ensure your employees are on-task and working on the projects you need them creating. This makes for a game that’s pretty niche within the genre, and it’s made even worse with awkward and at times broken controls. Some players may enjoy this game, but most fans of the genre are better off looking elsewhere.
Sunseed Island	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	C-
tl;dr Sunseed Island is a family friendly Top-Down Action-RPG and Management Simulation in the “Farming RPG” style, set in a world of anthropomorphic creatures who have a symbol representing their job literally growing out of their heads. This game does a few interesting things with the genre, but progression is so slow and plodding, and player options are so constrained, that it’s hard to recommend over the better options available in this genre.
Tales of Autumn	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	C-
tl;dr Tales of Autumn is a Top-Down Action-RPG and Management Simulation in the “Farming RPG” style, and while its stronger focus on story and attracting and raising animals gives it a unique hook, it’s a terrible mess, with issues of conflicting tone and absolutely terrible gamepad controls… and all at a price only $2 less than the current king of the genre, Stardew Valley. Trust me, you’re better off spending the extra $2 on that game and skipping Tales of Autumn entirely.
Train Valley: Console Edition	Management Simulation / Arcade	C-
tl;dr Train Valley is a game that mixes Management Simulation elements with Arcade-style elements. This game design is fairly unique and charming. However, it’s ruined by absolutely atrocious controls that make it a pain to do what you want in the game. Unless you have a great deal of patience, you’re probably better off skipping this one.
Venture Towns	Management Simulation	C-
tl;dr Venture Towns is a Management Simulation where players manage a town and all of its businesses, trying to ensure that everything remains profitable. Unfortunately, this game doesn’t give players enough information to keep things from going wrong, and doesn’t give them enough tools to fix it when it does. The result is a disappointment that doesn’t live up to the city management game this appears to be, nor to the business management game it wants to be.
Harvest Moon: Light of Hope Special Edition	Top-Down Management Sim / RPG	D+
tl;dr Harvest Moon: Light of Hope Special Edition is the latest game in the long-running “Farming RPG” series, but it plays like a cheap knockoff of itself, doing nothing to push the genre forward, offering nothing unique or noteworthy to set it apart, and demanding a full $40 for what amounts to a game that should have been a budget-priced release. There is no reason to buy this game when Stardew Valley is better in virtually every way and roughly a third the price.
InfiniteCorp: Cyberpunk Card Game	Management Sim	D+
tl;dr InfiniteCorp calls itself a “Card Game”, but it’s really a Management Sim that has players answering a string of yes/no questions and trying to placate various factions. While the presentation here has some charm, the gameplay is shallow and doesn’t give players enough information about the repercussions of their actions. Skip it.
Railway Empire – Nintendo Switch Edition	Management Sim	D+
tl;dr Railway Empire is a Management Sim that has you creating your own railroad routes and managing your rail empire. It’s a game that holds a lot of potential, but that potential is ruined by a disastrously frustrating interface and a sub-par presentation built around an experience that clearly wasn’t made with the Nintendo Switch in mind. Don’t ride this train.
RollerCoaster Tycoon 3: Complete Edition	Management Sim	D+
tl;dr RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 is a Management Sim that has you creating and managing your own theme park. Unfortunately, the game has aged extremely poorly, and the port is poorly-optimized for play on a console. Ugly graphics, poor use of sound, unhelpful tutorials, confusing controls, and a steep $30 price tag are just a few of the problems this game has. While it still has a wealth of variety and the charm of the original, only those fans who fell in love with the game when it first released should even consider buying it on the Nintendo Switch.
Unholy Heights	Strategy / Management Simulation	D+
tl;dr Unholy Heights combines a Management Sim with a Strategy game by having you manage an apartment complex with monsters and then rouse those monsters to fight off invaders. It’s a cute premise, but the game doesn’t give you enough to do in the management part of the game, and makes your units far too unreliable in the strategy part, resulting in a game that’s just frustrating. Skip it.
Dreamland Farm	Top-Down Action-RPG / Management Sim	D
tl;dr Dreamland Farm is a Top-Down Action-RPG and Management Simulation in the “Farming RPG” style, that plays like a very poor-man’s take on Stardew Valley, lacking a lot of that game’s features, and adding nothing of note other than some terrible design choices and odd bugs. It’s overpriced at its standard price and doesn’t feel like a good deal even when it goes on sale for $2. Just stick to Stardew Valley and leave this game to rot out in the fields.
Emergency HQ	Simulation	D
tl;dr Emergency HQ is a free-to-play Management Simulation that has you directing the efforts of emergency professionals during various emergencies. The presentation here is good, but otherwise this game is a mess, with minimal gameplay, no ability to play in docked mode, bugs, and heavily-pushed microtransactions. Skip this one.
Hope’s Farm	Match-3 Puzzle / Management Sim	D
tl;dr Hope’s Farm is a Match-3 Puzzle Game with Management Simulation elements that is very clearly a lazy mobile port, with terrible controls due to a lack of proper optimization on Nintendo Switch, and clear signs that this was a game originally designed around a microtransaction model. The Puzzle gameplay is uninspired, and the Management Sim elements are so simple that all they manage to do is to interrupt the Puzzle gameplay. There are better games in both genres on Nintendo Switch, don’t bother with this one.
Valthirian Arc: Hero School Story	Action-RPG / Management Simulation	D
tl;dr Hero School Story combines Action-RPG gameplay and Management Simulation elements in a story about building up a thriving medieval fantasy hero school. Unfortunately, both the Action-RPG elements and the Management Simulation elements are terrible, and the presentation s ugly to boot. You have countless better options than this on Nintendo Switch.
Zombie is Planting	Management Simulation	D
tl;dr Zombie is Planting is a side-scrolling Management Simulation that falls apart due to the way the zombies you command to farm for you often don’t listen to you, and act in dumb, counter-productive ways. This is an exercise in frustration, and simply not a fun game.
Cirrus Business	Management Simulation / Action-RPG	D-
tl;dr Cirrus Business is a “Farming Sim”-style Management Simulation and Action-RPG. Unfortunately, its juvenile presentation will likely drive away older players, its unnecessarily-complex controls will drive away younger players, and its maddeningly slow pacing will drive away everyone. You have numerous great alternatives for Farming Sim-style games on Nintendo Switch, play one of those instead.
Fallout Shelter	Management Simulation	D-
tl;dr Fallout Shelter is a Free-to-Play Management Sim that has you building and assigning residents to your expanding nuclear fallout shelter. Unfortunately, this game is a nightmare to control, both in docked mode and in portable mode. Stick with other versions of the game, if you play it at all.
Train Station Simulator	Management Simulation	D-
tl;dr Train Station Simulator is a Management Simulation game that has you building and managing your own train station. Unfortunately, the interface is inscrutable, the controls are terrible, and the tutorial is worse than worthless. As a result, this game is nearly unplayable. Do not bother with it.
Farm Tycoon	Management Simulation	F
tl;dr Farm Tycoon is a Management Simulation where players build and manage their own farm. Or at least they would do that if this game wasn’t so broken that it inevitably fails to register commands at some point within the first hour or so of playing it. If this game got fixed, it might be a pretty decent entry in the genre, but as-is, it’s virtually unplayable.
ZombieVital DG	Management Simulation	F
tl;dr ZombieVital DG is a Management Simulation where players craft their own dungeon to challenge and entertain heroes that venture into it. It’s a fun premise, but this game fails to deliver on that premise in any meaningful way, with terrible visuals, an abysmal localization, broken mechanics and pathfinding, and a lack of options for players looking to craft their own custom dungeon. Do not waste your money on this absolute mess of a game.

Simulation (Misc.)

Game	Genre	Grade
Beat Cop	Simulation / Action-RPG	B+
tl;dr Beat Cop blends Simulation and Action-RPG elements in a game where players must manage their time and try to be mindful of the many demands their job requires of them, both on-the-book and off-the-book, as well as both in the short-term and long-term. There are a few problems with the game not being forthcoming about information you need and a slow walking speed, but overall this is a delightfully varied game with lots of personality and some truly impactful choices to make in every in-game day. If you think you might enjoy tackling the ethical and logistical dilemmas being a cop can present you with, this is a game well worth trying.
Piczle Puzzle & Watch Collection	Compilation / Picross Puzzle / Puzzle / Simulation	B+
tl;dr Piczle Puzzle & Watch Collection is a Compilation of three Puzzle games presented as a Simulation of classic Game & Watch-style handheld LCD devices. The Puzzle games are solid, if a bit simple, and have a good amount of content for the $8 price tag. But what’s really surprising here is just how extensive a Simulation this is, going to some extraordinary lengths to make the LCD devices within the game as realistic as possible. If you’re a Puzzle game fan, this is a solid Compilation for you, but if you’re a fan of retro-style nostalgia, you should absolutely give this game a look.
Plague Inc: Evolved	Simulation	B+
tl;dr Plague Inc: Evolved is a Simulation-style game where players control the development of a disease with the goal of promoting its spread across the world and the ultimate annihilation of the human race… or, alternately, they can control the fight against the disease. This release contains updated visuals and a wealth of content, with the core gameplay still being both accessible and fun while still providing players with plenty of options. Fans of Strategy games looking for something fairly unique should definitely give this game a look.
Rebel Galaxy Outlaw	Space Combat Game / Simulation	B+
tl;dr Rebel Galaxy Outlaw is a Space Combat Game with strong Simulation elements that has players fighting enemies and taking on oddjobs in a space Western-themed galaxy. There’s a good variety of things to do here leading to a good feeling of player freedom, and though this game has numerous rough edges such as large and early difficulty spikes and a reduced resolution on Nintendo Switch, this is still overall a great game for anyone looking to fly around in a rough frontier in space.
Unpacking	Simulation	B+
tl;dr Unpacking is a unique sort of Simulation game where players open moving boxes and put away their contents. There’s no real challenge here, and very little in the way of goals, but the core gameplay of putting stuff away is delightfully relaxing, and the great presentation and subtle way the game implies character is wonderful. If you don’t mind a quieter, more contemplative game, Unpacking is an absolute delight you should definitely try.
Videoverse	Visual Novel / Simulation	B+
tl;dr Videoverse is a Visual Novel and Simulation-style game that has players taking the role of a teenage boy speaking with friends using message boards and chat apps on an early internet-capable retro console. This game pairs some great retro nostalgia with some wonderful characters and an excellent character-driven mystery, and while I was a tad frustrated at the way this game handles player choice, this is still a wonderful low-stakes game that’s well worth playing.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!!	Arcade / Simulation	B
tl;dr Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!! is an Arcade-style game with Simulation elements that doesn’t play much like Overcooked or Cooking Mama. It’s more like a food version of Simon Says, with multiple steps for some items. The game does a good job keeping things interesting by having you manage multiple things at once, and it makes for a good co-op experience, although it’s frustrating that it doesn’t do a better job to make important information immediately accessible to players in the chaos.
PowerWash Simulator	First-Person Shooter / Simulation	B
tl;dr PowerWash Simulator is a game that mixes First-Person Shooter and Simulation elements where players use high-powered cleaning equipment to clean off various vehicles and environments. This game could benefit from more structured goals, the loading times are a bit much, and the menu interface is pretty terrible, but while this game definitely has room for improvement, it still makes for a surprisingly compelling, almost meditative experience. This game won’t be for everyone, but some players will find this to be surprisingly compelling.
Promise Mascot Agency	Open-World Action-RPG / Simulation	B
tl;dr Promise Mascot Agency is an Open-World game with Action-RPG and Simulation elements that has you exploring a town while managing a mascot agency in a bonkers world with an insane story. The Open World is filled with places to explore and things to do, and the creativity is outstanding here, but it’s hard to fully appreciate it with the lacking moment-to-moment gameplay and the absolutely ugly visuals and terrible performance on Nintendo Switch. If you have a high tolerance for those things, this is a unique experience well worth trying out, but this definitely isn’t going to be a game for everyone.
80 Days	Interactive Story-Driven Adventure / Trading Simulation	B-
tl;dr 80 Days is a game that combines Interactive Story-Driven Adventure and Trading Simulation elements with a steampunk-infused Jules Verne-inspired story. The story is by far the best part of this package, making for a riveting read with wonderful characters and a fascinating world, but the unpredictable gameplay can make the game frustrating enough that many will have difficulty enjoying that story.
A Normal Lost Phone	Visual Novel / Simulation	B-
tl;dr A Normal Lost Phone is a Visual Novel told in the form of a Simulation of a smartphone that players have found and are trying to look through to uncover the story of what happened to its owner. It’s a good, emotional, well-grounded story told in a clever way, and it’s well worth a look if you’re a fan of Visual Novels. The ideal platform for this game is still undoubtedly the smartphone it’s intended to emulate, but the Nintendo Switch makes for an adequate substitute.
Hypnospace Outlaw	Graphic Adventure / Simulation / Misc.	B-
tl;dr Hypnospace Outlaw is a Simulation of the early days of the internet that players are tasked with scouring to search for violations like copyright infringement and harassment. This game’s simulation elements are exquisitely well-crafted, and the game makes for a clever satire, but its Puzzle gameplay is often frustrating due to a lack of any decent search tool. If you’re not too proud to use a walkthrough on the real internet, or patient enough to scour the in-game internet to find what you’re looking for, the Simulation and satire elements here are more than worth a look.
Star Ores Inc.	First-Person Simulation	B-
tl;dr Star Ores Inc is a First-Person Simulation game where players mine rocks on a space station in an asteroid. It’s somewhat limited in its scope compared to other “busywork simulators”, but it still does a good job with its core gameplay, giving players a repetitive but relaxing task as they slowly build up their abilities. If that appeals to you, this game is definitely one you’ll want to try.
Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop	Simulation / Puzzle	B-
tl;dr Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop combines Puzzle and Simulation gameplay with some Roguelike elements in a game where players take the role of a new employee at an intergalactic spaceship repair station. The basic gameplay of trying to figure out odd ship systems and decide how to fix them using an instruction manual is clever and fun, but the more you do it, the more it feels like busywork. Still, this game is unique enough that I think it’s worth a look.
Chinese Parents	Simulation / RPG / Puzzle / Misc.	C+
tl;dr Chinese Parents is an unusual Simulation game with a mishmesh of various elements that has you guiding the development of a child of Chinese parents. It’s a really original concept, and there are some interesting gameplay ideas here, but they’re marred by a poor localization and control interface issues. This game may still be worth a look, but only if you have the patience to look past its problems.
Doctor Who: The Lonely Assassins	Visual Novel / Simulation / Horror	C+
tl;dr Doctor Who: The Lonely Assassins is a Visual Novel that plays as a Simulation of a smartphone, with players searching through the phone to find information about the phone’s prior owner. This game has some clever ideas and some excellent Horror elements, but it’s unclear whether it wants to be a game for Doctor Who newbies or longtime fans, and there are numerous immersion-breaking elements that detract from the experience, not the least of which is the fact that this game is a natural fit for smartphones, and while the Nintendo Switch version is still good, you’re much better off playing this game on the device it’s trying to simulate.
Family Man	First-Person Action-RPG / Simulation	C+
tl;dr Family Man is a First-Person Action-Adventure with Simulation elements where players take the role of an ordinary family man being strongarmed by the mob, who must find a way to pay them back while also taking care of his family. This results in gameplay that’s a lot like a resource management Simulation, and while there are clever moments here, this game never provides players with the freedom needed to live up to the level of importance this game places on choice.
Fishing: Barents Sea Complete Edition	Open-World Simulation	C+
tl;dr Fishing: Barents Sea is an Open-World Simulation-style game where players operate and manage a commercial fishing boat. This is an extremely niche game that’s not going to appeal to many players, and it’s not helped by some terrible graphics and unintuitive controls. Yet, despite these flaws, this game does a good job of making the process of running a commercial fishing boat surprisingly accessible, and while the game is extremely slow-paced, those eager to try their hand at operating a deep sea fishing boat may find this game worth taking out of dry dock.
Lost Phone Stories	Compilation / Visual Novel / Simulation	C+
tl;dr Lost Phone Stories is a Compilation that includes A Normal Lost Phone and Another Lost Phone: Laura’s Story, two Visual Novels presented as a simulation of a missing smartphone players are trying to investigate to learn about its owner. Both stories are compelling and down-to-Earth, but will likely require a walkthrough to get past their puzzles, and the gameplay here was clearly intended for play using the touchscreen in handheld mode or, more appropriately, played on an actual Smartphone. However, if you can get past those issues, Lost Phone Stories is well worth playing.
Seashell	Simulation / Application	C+
tl;dr Seashell has players looking down at a beach and sifting through the debris to find seashells. The gameplay here is nearly nonexistent, but Seashell still has some value as an Application for relaxation, as its soothing sounds and placid visuals are quite good in that regard, especially for a $4 purchase. Just don’t expect many options to choose from here.
Accidental Queens Collection	Compilation / Visual Novel / Simulation / Text Adventure	C
tl;dr Accidental Queens Collection is a Compilation of three games from the titular developer – A Normal Lost Phone, Another Lost Phone: Laura’s Story, and Alt-Frequencies. The first two games combine Visual Novel and Simulation elements, while the latter combines Visual Novel and Text Adventure. All of these games have great stories and some interesting gameplay concepts, but only the first Lost Phone game manages to deliver on its concept without being dragged down by its gameplay issues, and both of the Lost Phone games are best played on a smartphone anyway. Overall, while this Compilation has some worthwhile content, it’s hard to give it a full recommendation.
Another Lost Phone: Laura’s Story	Visual Novel / Simulation	C
tl;dr Another Lost Phone is a Visual Novel told in the form of a Simulation of a smartphone that players have found and are trying to look through to uncover the story of what happened to its owner. The story here is excellent, but the changes made to the interface and puzzle design this time around make for a much worse experience. If you play this game in handheld mode and don’t mind keeping a walkthrough on hand for the puzzles, you may enjoy this game, but everyone else is better off avoiding it.
Awe	Puzzle / Simulation	C
tl;dr Awe is a game that’s part Puzzle and part Simulation, with a bit of Music-Rhythm as well. It is only playable using the touchscreen in handheld mode. It is a calm, relaxing game about interacting with a planet in ways that the player is meant to figure out on their own. However, once you figure out how to play it, doesn’t really offer any added depth or challenge. Some players enjoy Awe, but most will get bored with it very quickly.
Hamster Playground	Arcade / Simulation	C
tl;dr Hamster Playground is a family-friendly free-to-play game where players “take care of” a hamster in a manner vaguely similar to a very light Virtual Pet game, and then have them tackle minigames (just one unless you pay for DLC). The game succeeds at being cute and largely inoffensive, but there’s not enough depth to keep things entertaining here, and playing the game just feels like doing simple tasks rather than actually playing. Unless you’re a young child with a fondness for furry critters, this is not worth your time.
Kitty Powers’ Matchmaker: Deluxe Edition	Simulation / Puzzle / Misc.	C
tl;dr Kitty Powers’ Matchmaker is a Dating Sim with strong Puzzle elements that takes a whimsical approach to the genre, but it’s a bit shallow for its price, and the lacking options make its puzzle elements less than satisfying. It’s not bad, but you should only get it if the topic matter really appeals to you.
Space Commander: War and Trade	Combat Flight Sim / Simulation	C
tl;dr Space Commander is a Combat Flight Sim that has players controlling spacecraft in combat with enemies while also building up your small fleet of ships in a Trade Simulation. While it’s a fun blending of elements, both sides of that formula have problems, with repetitive combat, clunky menu design, and balance issues leftover from microtransaction-ridden design from other platforms. It can still be enjoyable, but only if you put up with far too many poor design choices.
I Am An Air Traffic Controller Airport Hero Centrair 20th Anniversary	Simulation	C-
tl;dr Airport Hero Centrair is a Simulation-style game that has players directing air traffic in the Chubu Centrair International Airport. While the attention to detail in this game is commendable, that attention doesn’t extend to anything beyond one airport and the planes landing and taking off from it, and despite how niche and lacking in content this game is, the bloated $50 price tag makes this far too expensive for any but the most airport-obsessed players.
I*Chu: Chibi Edition	Music-Rhythm / Visual Novel / Simulation	C-
tl;dr I*Chu is a game that combines Music-Rhythm, Visual Novel, and Simulation gameplay elements to form… well, a complete mess, with none of those elements being done especially well, and none combining well with the others. I suppose this game’s overarching goal of guiding pop idols through training to fame and success could have had potential, but no matter which way you look at it, this game doesn’t seem to work on any level.
Virus: The Outbreak	Simulation	C-
tl;dr Virus: The Outbreak is a Simulation-style game where players take the role of the Global Health Organization in the midst of an international pandemic, directing response and recovery efforts and trying to head off a global catastrophe. Unfortunately, this game is overly-complicated and suffers from some frustrating performance issues that make even navigating the game’s menus (you know, the main thing you do in this game) a tedious chore. Some may find this game’s wealth of options enticing, but most players interested in this sort of game have multiple options they’re likely to find more accessible and enjoyable.
Zoo Dentist	Simulation	C-
tl;dr Zoo Dentist is a family-friendly game that has players taking the role of a dentist working on cartoony young anthropomorphic patients. This is definitely a game aimed to appeal to pretty young kids, and while it works well enough in that regard, most players will quickly grow bored at the lack of variety or challenge here. Unless your young kid wants to grow up to be a dentist, or needs to be scared into brushing more regularly, this is not going to be worth your time.
Ciel Fledge: A Daughter Raising Simulator	Simulation / Visual Novel / Misc.	D+
tl;dr Ciel Fledge is a combination of various genres but is mostly a Simulation that has you managing the schedule of a young girl you’re raising. Unfortunately, the mechanics are alternately bland and over-complicated, and the presentation and story are often awkward and unnatural, making this a difficult game to get invested in no matter which way you come at it.
Corrupt – Political Idle City War Strategy Simulator Craft	Simulation / Idle Game	D+
tl;dr Corrupt is a business trading Simulation game with Idle Game elements. While there are some good ideas at work here, they’re buried under far too many user-unfriendly elements, such as the requirement to use the touchscreen, and the need to click on each and every building to see even the most basic important information related to that building. The result is a game that’s only just barely playable.
I Am An Air Traffic Controller Airport Hero Haneda	Simulation	D+
tl;dr Airport Hero Haneda is a Simulation-style game that has players directing air traffic in the Haneda Airport (AKA Tokyo International Airport). While the attention to detail in this game is commendable, that attention doesn’t extend to anything beyond one airport and the planes landing and taking off from it, and despite how niche and lacking in content this game is, the bloated $50 price tag makes this far too expensive for any but the most airport-obsessed players, which is especially egregious given this game’s use of recycled content.
Nora: The Wannabe Alchemist	Simulation	D+
tl;dr Nora: The Wannabe Alchemist is a Simulation-style game where players take the role of a young witch trying to earn money by growing ingredients, turning them into potions, and then selling them. Every step of this process is made unnecessarily tedious with loading times and unnecessary interruptions, on top of gameplay that boils down to little more than busywork. If you’re looking for a shopkeeper Simulation on Nintendo Switch, you have plenty of better options.
Shopping Mall Girl	Simulation	D+
tl;dr Shopping Mall Girl is a Simulation-style game where players buy outfits at different stores and then enter contests to win more money. Fashion enthusiasts may find something to enjoy here, but most players will find the lack of a decent structure to make the game feel repetitive and pointless. Unless you’re absolutely desperate for fashion-themed games on Nintendo Switch, skip this.
Acrylic Nails!	Simulation / Misc.	D
tl;dr Acrylic Nails! is an odd game that’s sorta’ a Simulation but mostly just a play space for players to create their own nail designs for customers. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like anything you do matters, and customers’ demands mean that you can’t just treat this as a pure creative space either, meaning it fails both as a game and as an art application. Unless you have a young kid who’s super-enthusiastic about decorating nails, skip this one.
Cook For Love	Misc. / Simulation	D
tl;dr Cook For Love is a family-friendly game that puts players in the role of a French chef preparing dishes in a restaurant, and while this game has a lovely presentation, the gameplay is so shallow and pointless that this game feels completely disposable. Skip it.
Dessert DIY	Simulation / Misc.	D
tl;dr Dessert DIY is an odd game that’s sorta’ a Simulation but mostly just a play space for players to create their own sugary treats for an unending line of customers. Unfortunately, there’s no skill involved here, just following instructions ad nauseum until you decide to quit. Skip this one.
DIY Makeup	Simulation / Misc.	D
tl;dr DIY Makeup is an odd game that’s sorta’ a Simulation but mostly just a play space for players to create their own makeup for customers. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like anything you do matters, and customers’ demands mean that you can’t just treat this as a pure creative space either, meaning it fails both as a game and as an art application. Unless you have a young kid who’s super-enthusiastic about creating makeup from scratch, skip this one.
Foot Clinic	Arcade / Simulation	D
tl;dr Foot Clinic is an Arcade-style Simulation game players take the role of a practitioner in a combination beauty salon and medical care office for treating various foot maladies. There’s an odd sense of humor in this game, and it could have built on that to make something interesting, but the game lacks any sort of consequences or fail states, making the whole thing a snooze-fest. Skip this one.
Frozen Honey ASMR	Simulation / Misc.	D
tl;dr Frozen Honey ASMR is an odd game that’s sorta’ a Simulation but mostly just a play space for players to create their own “frozen honey” treats for an unending line of customers. Unfortunately, there’s no skill involved here, just repeating the same motions over and over again. Skip this one.
Hair Dye	Simulation / Misc.	D
tl;dr Hair Dye is a game where players take the role of a hair stylist working on various girls’ hairdos. While the game does give some degree of freedom to create the style you want, there’s little point to it, as the girls are always satisfied with your work and there’s no real goal here. Skip this pointless game.
Make It Fly!	Puzzle / Simulation	D
tl;dr Make It Fly! is a game with Puzzle and Simulation elements that has players piecing together parts to custom-built their own airplane or car, with the goal of getting that vehicle to a goal at the end of a path. Unfortunately, this game does a poor job conveying information to the player, the physics are inconsistent and unreliable, and even if you’re doing everything right you’ll still likely have to fail at levels countless times just to grind. With all of this being the case, you’re better off skipping this game.
My Bakery Empire	Misc. / Simulation	D
tl;dr My Bakery Empire is a game where players follow steps to bake cakes and other sweet treats for customers. Unfortunately, the gameplay is shallow, lacks challenge, and the “build your business” angle just seems like an excuse to drip-feed content to the player. Don’t bother with this undercooked baking disaster.
Real Cake Maker	Misc. / Simulation	D
tl;dr Real Cake Maker is a game where players follow steps to bake cakes for baby-like customers. Unfortunately, the gameplay is shallow, lacks challenge, and has little educational value for the youngsters that are this game’s target audience. it may be colorful enough to engage and distract them, but so are actual good games. Get one of those instead.
Ships	Machine Simulation	D
tl;dr Ships is a Machine Simulation game that has you controlling all aspects of a shipping operation. Unfortunately, virtually every facet of this game is horribly flawed with poor design choices that make the game unnecessarily tedious, frustrating, or just outright boring. Even the very small target audience for this game is likely to be disappointed.
Latte Stand Tycoon +	Simulation	D-
tl;dr Latte Stand Tycoon + is a Simulation-style game that has you managing a coffee shop. Unfortunately, you’ll spend most of your time waiting around for customers, and what choices you do get don’t seem to have any measurable effect on the game. Send this bitter cup of joe back, it’s swill not worth drinking.
Merchants of Kaidan	Trading Simulation	D-
tl;dr Merchants of Kaidan is a “buy low”/”sell high” Trading Simulation game with a good presentation but that fails in pretty much every other area. The game depends far too heavily on luck, important information is not readily available to the player, the controls are atrocious, and the game repeatedly crashes. Avoid this one.
House Painting – Simulator	First-Person Simulation	F
tl;dr House Painting – Simulator is a First-Person Simulation-style game where players must clean and paint a house. While there is potential in the idea, this game is ruined in every possible way: ugly graphics, nonsensical sound, terrible game design, horrible confusing controls, and this game can’t even manage to get right the joy of applying paint to a surface. I can’t see any reason to waste your time and money on this game.
Robot Squad Simulator 2017	Machine Simulation	F
tl;dr Robot Squad Simulator is a Machine Simulation game that has you controlling machines like bomb defusal robots in hazardous situations. Unfortunately, just about everything about this game is terrible, from awkward and fiddly controls, terrible in-game physics, busted menus, sub-par graphics and sound, and an overly-large file size. Do not buy this game.
The Love – Date Simulator with Girls	Simulation / Misc.	F
tl;dr The Love is an odd sort of Simulation-style game that aims to replicate the feeling of using a dating app, but it’s poorly-designed, poorly-written, offers little in the way of meaningful choice, and even the arousing content the game implies you’ll find is not to be found here. In short, there is absolutely no reason to play this game.
Crypto Mining Simulator – Ultimate Trading Strategy Tycoon Craft & Idle Game 3D	First-Person Simulation / Misc.	N/A (F)
tl;dr Crypto Mining Simulator is a First-Person Simulation game that is so absolutely overloaded with problems it’s like the game is actively trying to get you to hate it so you’ll shut it off as soon as possible. I suggest you go a step further and not buy this game in the first place.

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