Job Simulator
Top Critic Average
Critics Recommend
Critic Reviews for Job Simulator
While Job Simulator may not be my personal favorite virtual reality game, it is one of the easier titles to recommend given its intuitive design, effective comedy stylings, and broad appeal. It's just a shame it has to end so soon. As such, I wouldn't suggest picking it up as your first or second VR purchase, but do know that you absolutely shouldn't skip it. Especially if you have a Vive.
The silly simulation gag has long outstayed its welcome, but Job Simulator's biting writing and intuitive gameplay means that the punchline plays one last time. Owlchemy Labs' launch title won't keep you occupied like real labour, but if work was always this entertaining then we'd never pull a sickie ever again.
Job Simulator has a personality of its own, and that’s what sells the experience. Its lighthearted, extremely silly premise works wonders with its presentation and core gameplay. It’s just not something super deep, and that seems to be a fairly common issue with most of the VR games I’ve experienced so far. Yet at the same time, this was one that gave me the most chuckles and it’s one that’s just as much fun playing as it is watching someone else do these menial tasks.
Job Simulator was one of the defining games of early PC and console VR and remains a great introduction to VR for those wanting to learn the ropes in a stress-free environment. All four scenarios are fun to mess around in and the game has a wonderful sense of humor. Sure, the entire experience only lasts four or five hours, but remains fun throughout.
At the end of the day, Job Simulator has been one of the best and most lasting experiences with the PSVR so far for me, alongside Batman: Arkham VR. The amount of fun you can have in each job really helps to extend the gameplay without feeling like it’s been padded out. There’s plenty of weird little interactions and easter eggs to be found — try photocopying your face in the office — so be prepared to have a good laugh at your own expense.
Competent virtual reality creates a profound shift in the way games immerse players. Past the novelty, however, comes the demand to have a material effect on the virtual world. Being a witness is fine, but becoming a participant is better. Job Simulator, perhaps more than any other PlayStation VR launch title, neither dwells in abstracts nor resides in stasis. Its cartoony confines are genuine, and player agency, however modest, feels authentic.
There is some replayability if played in groups, which makes the experience a lot better. Even with its shortcomings, and suffering from the issues that new tech normally faces, Job Simulator is cute and charming. If you are looking for something for the whole family to enjoy on Playstation VR or HTC Vive, this is most likely your best option.
