SimEarth
In short: SimEarth is a simulation game released in 1990 by Maxis, available on PC and Amiga. Our score: 7.5/10 (worth buying, especially on sale).
A highly influential real-time strategy and simulation game where players manage a space colony. It's known for its complex simulated ecosystem and the challenge of survival.
SimEarth: The Living Planet, released in 1990 by Maxis, is a pioneering simulation game that extends the god-game concept introduced in SimCity to an entire planet. Players are tasked with guiding the evolution of a planet from its primordial stages through billions of years of geological and biological development. This involves manipulating atmospheric composition, landmasses, oceans, and the emergence of life forms, with the ultimate goal of fostering intelligent civilization. The game's complexity lies in its deeply interconnected systems. Every action, from adjusting the solar constant to introducing new species, has ripple effects across the entire ecosystem. Players must contend with natural disasters, climate change, and the unique needs of different life forms, all while striving for a delicate balance. The interface offers a wealth of data and tools, allowing for granular control over various planetary parameters, making it a truly intricate and often challenging experience. While its graphics are rudimentary by today's standards, SimEarth's enduring appeal comes from its innovative gameplay and educational value. It encourages experimentation and provides a fascinating, albeit simplified, model of planetary evolution. It paved the way for more complex simulation games and remains a cult classic for its ambitious scope and the sheer depth of its simulated world. For those who enjoy strategic thinking, scientific concepts, and a unique take on the 'god game' genre,…
Game details
- Developer: Maxis
- Publisher: Maxis
- Release year: 1990
- Platforms: PC, Amiga
- Category: simulation
Our review
SimEarth is a truly ambitious title that, even decades later, stands out for its unique concept and intricate simulation. While its graphics are understandably dated, the depth of its systems and the freedom it offers players to sculpt an entire planet's destiny remain captivating. The learning curve is steep, and moments of frustration are common as ecosystems collapse, but the victories, when they come, are incredibly rewarding. It's a game that encourages experimentation and offers immense replayability for those who appreciate complex, open-ended simulations. A must-play for fans of the genre and a fascinating historical piece for anyone interested in game design.
Pros
- Deep, complex simulation
- High replayability
- Educational value
- Unique concept
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Dated graphics
- Can be overwhelming
- Lack of clear objectives
FAQ
- Is SimEarth a difficult game?
- Yes, SimEarth has a steep learning curve and can be quite challenging due to its complex systems and lack of explicit goals. Patience and experimentation are key.
- Are there any real-world scientific principles in SimEarth?
- SimEarth incorporates many simplified ecological and geological principles, making it a surprisingly educational experience for those interested in planetary science.
- Can I win SimEarth?
- There's no definitive 'win' condition in SimEarth. The goal is open-ended, focusing on guiding the planet to intelligent life and maintaining a stable ecosystem.
- What platforms is SimEarth available on?
- SimEarth was originally released for PC and Amiga. Emulation is typically required to play it on modern systems.
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Last updated: 03/04/2026