SimEarth SNES box art

Super Nintendo · Simulation

SimEarth

Certified classic

SystemSuper Nintendo
Released1991
GenreSimulation
DeveloperMaxis Software
PublisherFCI
Players1 player
CommitmentWeekend project (Roughly 6–20 hours)
LegacyCertified classic · legacy score 23

Released for the Super Nintendo in 1991, SimEarth is a simulation game developed by Maxis Software and published by FCI. Depending on the region, you may also know it as SimEarth: The Living Planet.

It belongs to the SNES's earliest wave of games. Other notable SNES releases from 1991 include Final Fantasy IV, Lemmings and Super Castlevania IV. Among the 27 SNES simulation games in our database, it ranks #1 by legacy score.

Maxis Software also made SimCity, SimAnt and SimAnt: The Electronic Ant Colony for the SNES.

SimEarth is a single-player game, so it's one to enjoy at your own pace.

Pick it if…

  • you want to think and plan
  • you have time for a weekend project (roughly 6–20 hours)
  • you want to experience one of the SNES's defining games

Maybe skip it if…

  • you want clear goals and a defined ending
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing SimEarth is like

Simulation games model a system and let you play inside it, whether that means building a city, flying a plane, raising a pet or running a business.

Tip for newcomers: Simulations are often open-ended. Set yourself small goals and enjoy experimenting with the systems.

SimEarth gameplay screenshot on SNES
In-game screenshot (SNES)

SimEarth walkthroughs & guides

Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for SimEarth.

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Playing SNES games today

The SNES library has aged exceptionally well, especially its RPGs, platformers and puzzle games. A large selection is available on Nintendo Switch Online, and if you own the cartridges you can play your backups in an emulator such as Rec0m88, including online with friends.

SimEarth FAQ

When did SimEarth come out on the SNES?

SimEarth was released for the Super Nintendo in 1991.

Who made SimEarth?

It was developed by Maxis Software and published by FCI.

Is SimEarth multiplayer?

No. SimEarth is a single-player game.

How long does SimEarth take to play?

As a simulation game, SimEarth typically falls into the "Weekend project" category: roughly 6–20 hours. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about SimEarth on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

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