Paralives

Paralives is a simulation game where you build houses for people and then control how they live. It's inspired by games like the Sims, however, you have complete control over every aspect of the design of the house and its residents. Its balance of architectural freedom and hyper-detailed simulation make it a great choice for creative and curious minds.

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You select the exact size, shape and look of every wall, every piece of furniture and every picture, allowing your mind to roam free. Once a house is complete, you can choose what the residents look like, what they do, and when they do it.

Play involves buying a plot of land and then constructing the walls to define the shape of your house. Using a wide range of items, you then furnish it, being sure not to go over budget. You can define the exact shape, colour and height of each item you add. Once complete, you can decide what the residents look like in the same way before choosing what their lives have in store.

It's a life simulation, but one that focuses on letting your imagination run wild rather than forcing you to earn items incrementally. The result is surprisingly arresting as you create your ideal home and place people in it. While other games like Animal Crossing or The Sims feel heavily tilted towards the joys of capitalism, here the fun is about unlimited possibilities without the associated grind.

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Our examiner, Ben Kendall, first checked Paralives 3 years ago. It was re-examined by Jo Robertson and updated 12 weeks ago.