What is a Simmer?

The term ‘simmer’ is often used to refer to a person who is passionate and interested in the virtual world of video games, typically those role-playing games such as The Sims. In this type of video game, a player takes on the role of a character or ‘sim’, as they are often called, and explores different storylines and social situations in order to achieve certain goals.

Simmers often have a deep commitment to the game, spending countless hours living out lives in the simulated world. After developing an understanding of the game’s rules and system, a Simmer usually focuses on developing relationships between Sims, achieving skills such as career development and completing objectives of their own choice.

What Motivates a Simmer?

Sims tend to enjoy the challenge and freedom that the game allows them to experience. Many simmers are content to play for hours on end, simply exploring the different possibilities of each chosen world’s dynamics.

Others are more goal-oriented, hoping to master a specific task or pursue a successful career. Simming offers endless entertainment, as the game’s design allows for more innovative players to create their own content and storylines.

Simmers can use the game to escape an often hectic day-to-day life, allowing them to channel their creativity and take control of their own environment, or simply explore and engage with the game’s narrative.

What is the Community Like?

The community of simmers is a strong and vibrant one, with many players choosing to stay within the confines of the simulation, and others venturing out into the real world to talk about their experiences with other players.

As well as more general discussion forums and groups, many simmers have created their own websites, blogs and wikis to better share information and tips. There are also hundreds of video creators uploading clips of their gameplay, and even large events, such as fan-driven conventions and meet-ups.

Overall, simmers form an energetic and passionate community and it continues to grow at a rapid rate. For many, it is a way to not only achieve certain goals, but to also enjoy an entertaining and creative escape.