Animals often offer a sense of comfort to many people, and their virtual counterparts have just as much of an impact. Games such asZoo TycoonandThe Sims 4let players care for a variety of animal companions.
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While pet simulation games are not a substitute for researching pet care before getting a future friend; they do offer a glimpse into a variety of pet care styles and occupations. Pet simulation games allow anyone toexperience the ups and downs of pet care. While some games take a more relaxed approach and focus on only play, others highlight just how much work goes into having a pet.
Updated July 09, 2025 by Stephen LaGioia: With the rise of social and sim games, as well as mobile and handheld gaming of late, the pet simulator genre has naturally continued growing in popularity. Dating back largely to the Tomagachi in the 90s, the genre has seen new life with hits like The Sims and Nintendogs — which remained one of Nintendo DS' biggest draws for some time.
And with so many delightful, cute options populating the gaming scene, it seemed sensible to add even more of the most appealingandadorable pet sims (Seaman need not apply — though it is charming in its own way). These games will provide the joy and fun of tending to a loving pet — without the hassle or mess!
15My Talking Tom
Mobile platforms are tailor-made for pet simulators, as studio Outfit7 illustrates with this charming virtual pet app,My Talking Tom.Rather than offer a slew of pets to pick from, the game stresses depth and hones in on the lovable grey tabby Tom. Over the course of Tom’s day, cat owners can interact with him and help him grow by feeding him and aiding in bathroom visits and bedtime.
Traditional gameplay elements are here too, as gamers can play fun minigames with the cat. The game utilizes the device’s microphone, as Tom will repeat words picked up by the mic. In-app purchases expand the experience, allowing users to buy cosmetics or travel the virtual world.
14Kinectimals
While its initial success may have tapered off after its first few years,Microsoft’s Kinect was amusing and technologically impressivefor its time. One star attraction of the then-new motion-sensing camera was 2010’sKinectimals.
The game takes the typically charming pet sim formula and amps it up — with dynamic visuals and the unique ability to adopt a wild animal rather than a domestic pet. Players can explore their wild side by caring for and playing with different cubs. The lineup includes cheetahs, lions, tigers, leopards, and black panthers. Unlockable goodies range from jump ropes to collars to radio-controlled cars.
13Viva Pinata
Looking to diversify its library, Rare and Microsoft launched this unique life simulation romp, which has players explore and tend to a colorful garden on Pinata Island. While more of a general sim than pet-specific, there are various fun activities to enjoy involving the animalistic Pinatas, and players will want to keep them satisfied.
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Maintaining the upkeep and expansion will attract more Pinata species, which can interact, clash, and even romance one another. The result is a delightful, rewarding “animal colony” simulation and an overlooked title for the 360.
12Petz
Originally crafted by the now-defunct P.F. Magic, Ubisoft has since taken up developer and publisher duties in this long-running pet sim. Dating back further than most of its ilk,Petzwas groundbreaking for its time and still largely holds up today. It allows virtual pet owners to adopt, raise, take care of, and even breed pets.
The game has players look at their progress in real-time, as the Petz will grow into healthy adults in just a few days. Pet owners can also try out various food, water bowls, as well as the fittingly-named “Toyz” and “Treatz.” Other features include learning tricks, snapshots, and sharing virtual pets through emails and imports.
11Nintendogs And Cats
On the heels of among the most successful handheld games ever comes this even cuter, fluffierNintendogssequel, which adds catsto mix up its dog-based sim. Like its predecessor,Nintendogs And Catsdraw in gamers with a number of adorable cat and dog breeds. Sleeker visuals, online gameplay, and tutorials are added this time to add even more appeal.
But what’s really neat here is the intuitive use of the microphone and camera, which allows gamers to more seamlessly interact with their animals. This even enables pets to recognize their owners and respond in kind. This is some impressive tech given its release dating back over a decade.
10Animal Shelter
InAnimal Shelterplayers will look after a variety of animals while managing an animal shelter. Players will have to help find each animal their next future home.Animal Shelterfeatures a photo room, where players can dress up and photograph each animal. The game simulatesaspects of the pet adoption process, which means pets may become stressed.
Players will need to monitor each animal’s hunger, play, and other comfort levels. In addition to cleaning and feeding the animals, players will have plenty of chances to play with them. Players will also need to construct each building of their shelter and create the optimal layout.
9To The Rescue!
InTo The Rescue!, players will be tasked with running a charming animal shelter andfinding homes for all the dogsthere. Players will have to manage all the individual needs of each dog residing in the shelter.
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Each dog is unique featuring its own traits and preferences. Getting to know each dog’s preferences and managing their needs will help them find their future homes. Each day inTo The Rescue!will bring new challenges and rewards. While fundraisers and random donations may help the shelter, dogs can catch infectious diseases and will need to be looked after.
8Best Friend Forever
InBest Friend Foreverplayers will divide their time between pet care and finding romance.Best Friend Foreveris a pet care and dating sim that features plenty of singles and dogs. Players cantrain, pet, and play with their dogs, they will also need to care for and pamper them.
In addition, players will also be able to enroll their pets in puppy school to help with training. Pet owners can also get to know the various locals in Rainbow Bay and form friendships and romances. Each character also has a unique pet to befriend.
7Little Island
Players looking for a way tobring adorable pets into virtual worldswill want to check outLittle Island.Little Islandlets players interact with a variety of adorable animals in VR. The game features dogs, cats, penguins, seals, and many more animal species. Players can also explore forests, grasslands, and ice fields.
In addition to playing with the animals, players can also grow flowers and enjoy a fishing mini-game. The fish and flowers can also be displayed in the player’s room in the game.
6Ooblets
Although it’s definitely not a traditional “pet simulation” style game, Ooblets is very worthy of a mention when it comes to adorable pet-based releases. This cute and colorful release sees players joining a bustling community to create their farm, while simultaneously cultivating relationships with townsfolk and some strange little creatures known as Ooblets.
It’s quite wacky, but incredibly relaxing and features some truly unique and engaging gameplay. Players can collect a wide array of Ooblets and can even “battle” with them by using card-based mechanics in hilarious and entertaining Dance-Offs. There’s a lot of customization and engagement to be found in Ooblets, giving pet lovers a fun and relaxing world to explore.
