Investing in the stock market is an art that is difficult to master.
Many beginner investors are afraid of the risks associated with investing real money, which is why business simulation games are a great starting point. These games allow you to learn market mechanics safely.
In the world of simulation games, you can find both entertaining games and more professional stock market simulators that faithfully reflect the workings of the stock exchange.
For those who want to combine learning with fun, we have prepared a list of the seven best simulation games and apps. In our ranking, we considered games with engaging mechanics, advanced simulation systems, and intuitive interfaces. Ready? Here are our suggestions!
To start, here are a few simpler titles that immerse players in the world of simulation, where stock market investing is one of the gameplay elements.
| Game | Release | Genre | Developer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Superpower 2 | 2004-10-11 | Simulation | GolemLabs |
 | Nobunagas Ambition Sphere Of Influence | 2015-09-01 | Strategy | KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. |
 | Terra Invicta | 2022-09-26 | Simulation | Pavonis Interactive |
 | Crusader Kings III | 2020-09-01 | Strategy | Paradox Development Studio |
 | Hearts Of Iron IV | 2016-06-06 | Simulation | Paradox Development Studio |
 | Distant Worlds 2 | 2022-03-10 | Simulator | Code Force |
 | Sid Meiers Civilization VI Platinum Edition | 2016-10-20 | Economy | Aspyr (Mac, Linux) |
 | Stellaris | 2016-05-09 | Strategy | Paradox Development Studio |
 | Victoria 3 | 2022-10-25 | Strategy | Paradox Development Studio |
 | Europa Universalis IV | 2013-08-13 | Economy | Paradox Development Studio |
 | Cities Skylines II | 2023-10-24 | Simulator | Colossal Order |
 | Cities Skylines | 2015-03-10 | Economy | Colossal Order Ltd. |
 | Factorio | 2016-02-25 | Indie | Wube Software LTD. |
Capitalism Lab
| Release date: | 2012 |
| Genre: | Strategy |
| Developer: | Enlight Software |
Capitalism Lab is an expansion of Capitalism II, introducing new mechanics like widescreen mode and an inflation indicator.
The game allows players to manage companies, invest in the stock market, and build financial empires. The refined simulation system enables players to take on the role of a CEO, making decisions that affect the company’s performance and stock prices.
Thanks to its complexity and realism, Capitalism Lab is an excellent choice for players seeking a full-fledged financial market simulator. However, note that it requires the base game, Capitalism II, to run.
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Wall Street Raider
| Release date: | 1986 (updated annually) |
| Genre: | Business simulation game |
| Developer: | Michael D. Jenkins |
Wall Street Raider is a classic in the world of stock market simulators.
Players can invest in stocks, manage investment funds, and navigate economic crises. The game demands strategic thinking and offers incredible realism in gameplay.
With its realistic market mechanisms and data analysis features, Wall Street Raider is a great stock market simulation for ambitious investors. Its engaging and challenging strategy makes it one of the most comprehensive games on the market.
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STONKS-9800: Stock Market Simulator
| Release date: | 2023 |
| Genre: | Simulator |
| Developer: | TERNOX |
STONKS-9800: Stock Market Simulator is a humorous take on the stock market, inspired by Japanese games from the ’90s.
Players can manage their stocks and observe how their investments impact the virtual economy. While the game features simplified mechanics, it offers plenty of fun and serves as an introduction to the world of investing.
Its light-hearted vibe and retro aesthetic make learning stock market basics enjoyable.
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The Invisible Hand
| Release date: | 2021-05-07 |
| Genre: | |
| Developer: | Power Struggle Games |
In The Invisible Hand, players assume the role of an employee at an investment corporation tasked with maximizing profits.
The game mechanics include market manipulation, data analysis, and avoiding financial scandals. It provides a glimpse into the brutal realities of the stock market.
The Invisible Hand explores the moral and strategic aspects of working on the stock exchange—an ideal choice for those wanting to understand both the ethical and practical challenges of investing.
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The Guild 3 (Professional Stock Market Simulators)
| Release date: | 2018 |
| Genre: | RPG |
| Developer: | GolemLabs |
While The Guild 3 is primarily a simulation of medieval life, players assume the role of a commoner involved in politics and trade.
The goal is to build wealth, expand trade networks, and speculate on the market.
The Guild 3 combines life simulation elements with economic mechanics. Its medieval setting and complex trading systems make it unique among simulators. Although the game takes place in the Middle Ages, it offers mechanisms reminiscent of modern stock exchanges.
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Professional Stock Market Simulators
Now, for those uninterested in typical simulation games but seeking operations closer to reality, here are some intriguing simulation apps. These allow you to explore stock market mechanisms and try your hand — without the risk!
MarketWatch Virtual Stock Exchange Game
| Release date: | - |
| Genre: | Simulator |
| Developer: | MarketWatch |
The MarketWatch Virtual Stock Exchange Game is a mobile app that simulates real-time stock investing.
Players can buy and sell stocks on a virtual stock exchange (a mirror of the real one), track their portfolio, and compete with other users.
Thanks to integration with real market data, the app is perfect for beginner investors who want to learn the basics of the stock market without financial risk.
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Financial Game Stock Market Simulator
| Release date: | 2013-2019 |
| Genre: | Simulator |
| Developer: | The SIMFA Foundation The Stock Market Game |
The Financial Game Stock Market Simulator is an educational app (mainly targeted at primary and secondary school students) offering a realistic stock market game.
It allows players to analyse data, manage investment portfolios, and compete with other users. It’s ideal for those who want to develop skills through learning in a safe environment.
Its extensive educational features and real-time tracking make this app one of the best choices for future investors.
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Summary
Whether you are a beginner investor or an experienced player, stock market simulators provide invaluable opportunities to develop skills in the financial world. From engaging Steam games like Capitalism Lab and The Invisible Hand to advanced educational apps like the MarketWatch Virtual Stock Exchange Game, each of these options offers something unique. Try them today and begin your journey into the stock market in the virtual world!