Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons (2025) - Is This Free Game Worth It?

Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons is a new, free collection of six independent games, each offering a unique twist on the simulation genre. From managing a medieval carrier pigeon to navigating the absurd world of a tabloid editor dealing with real paranormal events, this collection promises a diverse range of experiences. With its blend of simulators, strategy, adventure, and exploration, the game seeks to offer something for everyone. But is this free offering worth your time and hard drive space? Let's dive in and find out.

Six Games, Zero Cost: An Overview of Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons

Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons sets itself apart by delivering not one, but six distinct games under a single banner, all for free. This immediately creates a unique value proposition. Each game is developed by an independent team and explores a different facet of the simulator genre, creating a diverse and intriguing package. The collection includes:

• Carrier Pigeon Simulator: A medieval-themed simulator where you deliver letters, avoid obstacles, and collect golden eggs.
• Unbelievable Times: A satirical strategy game where you play a tabloid editor who discovers that the paranormal stories he's been faking are actually true.
• Stay Strong!: An atmospheric simulator focusing on routine and the inner experience of someone going through a difficult time.
• BloomWake: A cozy fantasy simulator centered around magical flower breeding and shop management.
• This is my stick: A humorous exploration and collection game where you find sticks, name them, and share them on a fake Reddit feed.
• Kings and...: A strategy simulation set in an alternative early-medieval Rus, where you manage resources and navigate political challenges.

This variety is both a strength and a potential weakness. On one hand, players are likely to find at least one game that appeals to their tastes. On the other, the brevity of each experience (around 15+ minutes per game) might leave some wanting more. The game's target audience is broad, encompassing fans of simulators, strategy games, and those looking for unique, indie experiences. The free-to-play model makes it accessible to virtually anyone with a PC capable of running the games. This collection presents a low-risk opportunity to explore various gameplay styles and narratives. The fact that it's free makes it an easy recommendation for gamers looking for something different without spending money.

Performance, Value, and Gameplay Depth: Is Free Enough?

Given that Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons is a free collection, the performance expectations might be lower than for a paid title. The minimum system requirements are quite modest, requiring only an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and integrated graphics like Intel UHD Graphics 620 or a dedicated card like NVIDIA GT 1030. This means that even older or less powerful PCs should be able to run the games without much trouble. However, the developers do note that each game has its own technical profile, and the requirements listed reflect the most demanding experience. It's advisable to close background applications for optimal performance.

As for value, it’s hard to argue with free. The fact that you get six different games for zero cost is already a significant plus. However, value isn't just about the price tag; it's also about the quality and depth of the content. While each game offers a unique experience, their short playtime (15+ minutes each) may not satisfy players looking for long-term engagement. Think of it as a sampler platter – you get a taste of different flavors, but not a full meal. To compare, many free-to-play games offer extensive content but rely on in-game purchases. Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons offers a complete experience upfront without any monetization, which is a refreshing approach. It does feel like a series of game jam projects all bundled together. BloomWake, with the flower breeding, is likely the most polished and time-consuming of the experiences.

In terms of gameplay depth, the collection varies significantly. Some games, like Kings and..., offer strategic depth with limited resources and political challenges. Others, like This is my stick, are more about lighthearted exploration and humor. The variety ensures that players can find something that suits their current mood, but it also means that some games may feel simpler or less engaging than others. Ultimately, Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons provides excellent value for its price (free) and offers a range of experiences that are accessible to a wide audience. However, players looking for deep, long-lasting gameplay might find the individual games too short and superficial.

Contextual Analysis: Indie Development and Community Support

Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons is developed by independent teams GD GUILD with the support of the SUITD 'RESP' community. This collaborative approach highlights the indie development scene and the power of community support in creating unique and diverse gaming experiences. The fact that it is free reflects a growing trend in the indie scene where developers release smaller, experimental projects to gain exposure and gather feedback. This also reflects a focus on creating niche games for a broad audience.

Given the nature of the collection, future updates or DLC are unlikely. The games are designed as standalone experiences, and the developers have not indicated any plans for post-launch content. However, the community aspect of the project could lead to fan-made content or mods, which could extend the lifespan of the games. The absence of multiplayer features is also a point to consider. The focus is primarily on single-player experiences, which might disappoint players looking for social interaction. However, this allows each game to deliver a focused and unique narrative without the constraints of multiplayer balance or design. Even though the title released in 2025, it has been known to get sporadic updates. This is especially true for the better titles.

The long-term appeal of Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons will depend on how well the individual games resonate with players. Some may find a particular game that they revisit frequently, while others may simply enjoy the collection as a one-time experience. Overall, the collection serves as a showcase for indie talent and offers a diverse range of experiences that are accessible to anyone. The absence of a long-term roadmap or extensive community features may limit its longevity, but the initial offering is compelling enough to warrant a download and a try.

Final Verdict: Should You Download Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons?

Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons is an interesting and accessible collection that is hard to criticize due to its zero-cost entry point. The variety of simulators offers something for everyone, and the short playtime of each game makes it easy to jump in and out without a major time commitment. For gamers who enjoy exploring unique indie games, or are on a budget, this collection is definitely worth downloading.

However, those seeking in-depth, long-lasting gameplay experiences may find the individual titles too brief and superficial. Consider this as a sampler of indie game development, offering small bites of various styles and themes. Ultimately, Simulators, Strategies & Pigeons is a worthwhile addition to your Steam library, especially if you're looking for something different without spending any money. It is a great option for casual gamers, those curious about the simulator genre, and anyone who appreciates the creativity and innovation of the indie gaming scene. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy titles like Papers, Please and Stick it to the Man.

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