Online Simulation Game

3 Online Simulation Game Success Stories [2024]

Updated: October 7th, 2024

An online simulation game business involves creating and managing virtual games that mimic real-life situations or scenarios.

These games can range from running a virtual farm to managing a city or even simulating professional activities like flying an airplane.

To start this business, you'll need basic computer skills, creativity, and a passion for gaming.

You can use free or low-cost game development platforms to create your simulations, and once they’re ready, you can sell or offer them online for a profit.

This low-cost venture taps into the growing demand for engaging virtual experiences, making it a potentially lucrative option for budding entrepreneurs.

In this list, you'll find real-world online simulation game success stories and very profitable examples of starting a online simulation game that makes money.

1. 24/7 Golf ($6M/year)

In his early years, Igor displayed his entrepreneurial spirit by selling drinking water at a school camp, only to be scolded by bureaucrats. After years of corporate and consulting jobs, he found his passion in golf and decided to start a business selling affordable golf simulators. By leveraging his industry expertise and becoming known as a thought leader in the golf simulator community, Igor was able to attract customers and drive sales through word of mouth and online marketing tactics.

How much money it makes: $6M/year
How many people on the team: 3

SMALLBORDER

How I Built A $500K/Month Golf Simulator Business

Australian startup founder Igor built a virtual golf empire selling affordable golf simulators for personal and commercial use, leading to the growth of his e-commerce platform and establishment of an event hire business, all through the power of online networking.

Read by 15,658 founders

2. World of Card Games ($48K/year)

Holger, a designer-turned-programmer from Copenhagen, acquired World of Card Games for its potential, increasing its revenue to $4,000/month within a year. Leveraging his experience with Online Solitaire, he seized the opportunity after ongoing discussions with the original owner.

How much money it makes: $48K/year
How much did it cost to start: $1K
How many people on the team: 0

SMALLBORDER

I Acquired An Online Card Game And Solo Run It [$4K/Month Revenue]

This case study article follows the journey of a designer-turned-programmer who acquired a multiplayer card game website, World of Card Games, and managed to increase its revenue to $4,000 per month within a year, sharing insights on building the product, launching the business, and attracting and retaining customers.

Read by 6,279 founders

3. Monster MMORPG ($2.4K/year)

Furkan, the only owner and developer of Monster MMORPG, came up with the idea for his browser-based creature hunting game during his third year of Bachelor's education. Inspired by the popularity of fan-made Pokemon games, he and his colleague created a simple game that gained massive attention from players worldwide. After graduation, Furkan continued to develop the game solo, eventually converting it into a unique, full copyright-owned, branded creature hunting game. Today, Monster MMORPG generates about $200 per month and has a dedicated player base that has been with the game for around 10 years.

How much money it makes: $2.4K/year
How much did it cost to start: $100
How many people on the team: 1

SMALLBORDER

I Turned A Fan-Made Project Into A Successful Online Game

Monster MMORPG is a browser-based creature hunting game generating $200 per month from ads and Patreon support, started as a fan-made project in 2009, and developed by a single owner and developer.

Read by 2,813 founders