Simplifier

Okay, so you're looking for games where you get to be a mechanic for cool, non-car stuff like mechs or spaceships, and you want them to be well-made, not buggy messes. Got it! Think of it like this: you want a game that lets you tinker with the Millennium Falcon, not a rusty old pickup truck. A couple of good options that come to mind are "Jalopy," where you maintain and repair a Laika 601 Deluxe through Eastern Europe, or "Breathedge," where you maintain your ship while trying to survive in the depths of space. These games are known for being pretty polished and engaging, so they might just scratch that itch you're talking about!

PC Gaming Enthusiast

Dude, you've stumbled onto the *best* kind of niche! Forget those console peasants stuck with whatever the developers spoon-feed them. On PC, we've got options! You're right, a lot of those simulator games are shovelware, but there are some gems out there if you know where to look. For mechs, keep an eye out for titles like *MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries* with its *extensive* modding community. You can tweak everything from the mech's performance to the entire game's economy. If you're into spaceships, *Kerbal Space Program* is a must-play, even if it's not strictly a "mechanic" simulator. The building and repair aspects are deep and rewarding. Plus, the satisfaction of finally getting your Frankenstein rocket into orbit? Unbeatable! Don't be afraid to dig deep into Steam's Early Access section, either. Just do your research and read reviews before you buy. The PC gaming community is great at calling out the bad ones and hyping up the good ones. Happy wrenching!

Game Design Student

Okay, I get where you're coming from. That core loop of diagnosing problems, sourcing parts, and fixing complex machines can be super satisfying. The problem is, a lot of these simulator games prioritize quantity over quality, leading to shallow gameplay and poor player retention. If you're looking for something beyond *Mech Mechanic Simulator*, I'd suggest looking at games that focus on a similar core loop but with higher production values. *Hardspace: Shipbreaker* might scratch that itch. It's not exactly a "mechanic" simulator, but the gameplay focuses on carefully dismantling spaceships for parts, which has a similar problem-solving and methodical feel. The physics and sense of progression are also really well done, which keeps you engaged. Another option, though it might be a bit of a stretch, is *Kerbal Space Program*. While it's more about building and launching rockets, the core gameplay loop involves understanding complex systems, diagnosing failures, and iterating on your designs. The learning curve is steep, but the sense of accomplishment is huge. Ultimately, look for games that prioritize a well-defined core loop, clear progression, and a sense of player agency. Those are the keys to a truly engaging simulator experience.

Retro Game Developer

Ah, yes, the allure of tinkering with fantastical machines! It's a shame so many modern attempts miss the mark. You see, back in the day, we had to be clever. Limited memory forced us to focus on core gameplay loops. We couldn't rely on fancy graphics to mask shallowness. While I haven't seen many modern titles that truly capture that magic, I can suggest looking at games that focus on the *puzzle* of machinery. Perhaps something like "Space Station 13" where you have to manage complex systems and repair them on the fly. Or even going back to classics like "Robotron 2084" where the frantic action is all about understanding the patterns and limitations of your machine. Sometimes, the best way to scratch that itch is to appreciate the elegance of simple, well-executed mechanics.

Indie Game Developer

Oh man, I totally get that feeling! Finding that *one* game that just clicks, even if it's a bit rough around the edges, is the best! It's awesome you're digging the whole "mechanic for something epic" vibe. While I don't have any specific titles to recommend off the top of my head, I would suggest looking into games that focus on intricate systems and problem-solving. Maybe something like *Kerbal Space Program* (if you're into spaceships) or even some of the more in-depth submarine simulators. The key is to find games that let you really tinker and understand how things work. Keep searching, keep experimenting, and don't be afraid to dive into early access titles or indie projects. You never know when you'll stumble upon that hidden gem that perfectly captures your vision of being the ultimate mech/spaceship/submarine mechanic!

Points of agreement

• The original poster is looking for games where they can be a mechanic for non-car vehicles/machines (mechs, spaceships, submarines, etc.).
• Many simulator games in this genre are poorly made or unpolished.
• The core gameplay loop of diagnosing problems, sourcing parts, and fixing complex machines can be very satisfying.

Points of disagreement

• The best approach to finding good games: Some suggest focusing on puzzle-like elements and intricate systems, while others emphasize modding communities or polished, engaging experiences.
• Specific game recommendations vary widely, reflecting different priorities (e.g., depth of simulation vs. overall polish).