Sim Farm

Before games like Stardew Valley and Farming Simulator, there was SimFarm—a detailed farming simulation developed by Maxis and released in 1993. Known for their hit game SimCity, Maxis took their love of management and applied it to rural life. SimFarm gave players the challenge of running a full-scale farm, with all the joys and stresses that come with it.

Now considered a classic farming simulation, SimFarm is available to play online for free—no downloads needed. It’s part of the golden era of DOS games and still teaches valuable lessons about planning, timing, and resilience.

A Glimpse into Gameplay

In SimFarm, you begin with a simple plot of land and a few basic tools. From there, your job is to:

• Plant and harvest crops depending on the season and soil type
   
• Buy and manage livestock like pigs, cows, and chickens
   
• Respond to weather changes like rain, drought, or snow
   
• Protect your farm from disasters such as pests or tornadoes
   
• Make financial decisions by watching crop prices and selling at the right time

The game even includes a small town nearby. As your farm grows, you can suggest developments like an airport, which opens the door to using crop dusters—a major upgrade for larger farms.

SimFarm vs. Modern Farming Games

Although SimFarm was released in the early ’90s, many of its features laid the groundwork for the farming games we enjoy today. Here's how it compares to modern favorites:

Farming Simulator 25

Offers hyper-realistic machinery, crop types, and economics. It’s geared toward players who want a true-to-life experience.

Stardew Valley

Combines farming with social life, town-building, and adventure. It’s more narrative-driven but still echoes SimFarm’s core: land, labor, and reward.

Farm Together

Focuses on teamwork. It’s a lighthearted multiplayer option where friends build farms side-by-side in real-time.

These modern games build on what SimFarm started: giving players the chance to grow something meaningful, face unexpected challenges, and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-run farm.

SimFarm Still Matters

SimFarm isn’t flashy. Its graphics are basic, and its pace is slow compared to modern games. But that’s part of its charm. It teaches patience, planning, and the real ups and downs of managing something over time. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic return to the past or want to introduce someone to a piece of gaming history, this classic still holds up.

Play SimFarm online here on Classic Reload! Your goal as the player is to build up the land or farm you were given, place buildings, and plant crops like what real farmers do. You'll also engage in buying and selling livestock to earn money. Challenges in the game include weather, droughts, pests, and other natural disasters. Hit the play button to start SimFarm.