10 Best Life Simulation Games Like Vivarium

In all its cute and whimsical summer vibe, Vivarium has already stolen my heart pre-release. And since I’m impatient to wait for its eventual arrival, I’ve been keeping myself busy with the coziness and relaxation of a rural lifestyle in Stardew Valley, the magical wonder and discovery of the Forgotten Realms in Disney Dreamlight Valley, and the pursuit of purpose and happiness in Wanderstop.

I’m certain you’ll find the best life simulation games like Vivarium charming in their world-building, vulnerable in the relationships you form, and most surprising with the side-adventures you find yourself drawn to, dungeon-crawling and all. 

10. Wylde Flowers

Wylde Flowers has a heartwarming story about a witch navigating the rural lifestyle. She falls into a cozy, daily routine of farming and watering her Wylde Flowers, which she uses to cast spells by night. There are other witches in your neighborhood, members of your coven, with whom you interact and build friendships.

Also appreciated is that all the characters are fully voice-acted, with charm and grace. Plus, you have a local mystery that should keep you busy, unraveling its plot twists within the town of Fairhaven and beyond.

9. Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life

Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life is a life simulation classic, revamped with vibrant and colorful visuals. It takes place in the Forgotten Valley, where the townspeople go to escape the chaos of urban life. Your days are soft and simple, moving from taking care of your farm to raising a family.

But it’s the stories you’ll create here that truly warm your heart. The locals you meet, with whom you form strong bonds that know no bounds.

8. Astroneer

It might seem a little odd for a life simulation to take you to the stars. But here we are, enjoying the most delightful adventure on an alien planet in Astroneer. There’s nothing to fear, only some plants that may emit poisonous gas that you’ll quickly recover from.

Otherwise, it’s a marvel at nature’s wonder, both familiar and strange. Curiosity guides your path from planet to planet, discovering rare resources and unlocking all that the universe hides on the frontiers of outer space.

7. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

When you land on a deserted island, the possibilities are limitless. You can potentially start life anew, building a paradise home after your own heart. This is the challenge Animal Crossing: New Horizons gives you.

There’s lots to do here, including collecting all kinds of bugs and repurposing them to your will. They can help you craft and create a community everyone will cherish. Or you might choose to do nothing, sunbathing at the beach with your new pals.

6. Wanderstop

A frustrated warrior finds her life repurposed to serving tea, totally against her will. Yet, this unexpected diversion ends up being the best experience both she and you could ask for. Wanderstop is a gem, revolving around managing a tea shop.

But beyond the calming routine of operating an intricate tea-making contraption, it’s about slowing down to listen to your customers. Their stories aren’t just for them, but for you to learn from and become someone new.

5. Persona 5 Royal

The Persona 5 Royal RPG series may not be the obvious choice for the best life simulation games like Vivarium. But I just can’t get over how intricate its life simulation gameplay is. Your day-to-day revolves around a regular school life. But you’re also holding down part-time jobs.

There’s a certain structure to it as well that does take me back to life as a student. An adherence to a school calendar and meeting deadlines on tasks. It makes the experience feel as true-to-life as can be.

4. My Time at Sandrock

During My Time at Sandrock, I was careful to spend every bit of my time making Sandrock a place I could call home. What was once a deserted land soon grew to become an industrial town that provided for its people.

Slowly but surely, my town grew. Machines helped build storeyed factories, and my initial task to transform a failing workshop into a flourishing economic haven was complete.

3. Rune Factory 4 Special

Combine farming and fantasy, and that’s probably exactly how I like my Saturday afternoon gaming session. Rune Factory 4 Special makes you dream big. Whether it’s growing crops or catching fish, it makes activities feel whimsical. 

The cast is also wonderful to interact with, as you navigate life together across many seasonal festivals and town competitions. Moreover, you also have a Newlywed Mode for that extra story spice following you and your spouse’s adventures.

2. Disney Dreamlight Valley

Disney really hit the jackpot with Disney Dreamlight Valley when they managed to create a seamless universe of all your favorite Disney characters and worlds. You can finally be friends with Hercules and Snow White, bringing them gifts every chance you get. 

Every Disney world has its unique theme and diverse activities you can bring to life. This game also makes it to the best life simulation games like Vivarium because of its steady progression. You’re constantly unlocking new secrets, areas, and realms. Not to mention the freedom to create your own landscape ideas of your perfect Disney world.

1. Stardew Valley

And finally, I have for you the life simulation game that swept me off my feet. Stardew Valley has been a precious gift in the pursuit of a relaxing simulation game. It takes it easy on you, giving you hand-me-down tools to begin reviving your grandfather’s small plot of land.

Yet, from its humble beginnings sprouts a majestic game full of adventure. The townsquare, where you meet so many amazing souls, free to make friends with or date. Over 30 people are available to build strong bonds with, and maybe even take on your next adventure down to the caves.

Oh, yes. You’ll discover some mysterious caves that have dangerous monsters. But if you’re brave enough to slay them, you’ll earn sweet treasure.