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Games that try to simulate real-world activities (like driving vehicles or living the life of someone else) with as much realism as possible. Simulators generally require more study and orientation than arcade games, and the best simulators are also educational.

Constructing and managing cities, towns, or settlements. City builder games typically involve zoning land, placing buildings, managing resources, and ensuring the wellbeing of citizens. Players balance factors like population growth, economy, infrastructure, and environment as they guide their city's development over time. Strategy and planning are key to succeeding.

Taking place after a huge catastrophe (eg. man made or natural disaster). See also the more political theme dystopian.