The guides section will talk NCSS partners through the hardware required to run gaming simulations, and connect users to curriculum, orientation videos, and other resources as they become available for use.
Computer Hardware
Game simulations can rarely be run on laptops or desktops that were bought to just run Microsoft Office, and to watch standard video content from streaming media sites. The game simulations will not run on substandard hardware, laptop or desktop systems that are six or more years old, or small amounts of system or video RAM (less than 8 gigs).
You can use PCGame Benchmark’s site to evaluate your hardware setup, and determine if your existing laptop or PC can run any of the games.
Please see the following links if you need to look for new laptops or PC’s to run the simulations. You can click the links below to review 2019 gaming hardware configurations designed for a budget gamer, and with a life expectancy of 4-5 years running games at the minimum settings.
PC Gamer Budget Laptop Systems – January 2023
PCGamer Budget Gaming Desktops – July 2023
Best Budget Desktop Gaming Monitors -July 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller
Truck/Bus Steering Wheel Buying Guide – 2023
If you simply need a little extra RAM Memory, getting to 8 gigabytes, consult your local IT staff to ensure you match up the right RAM for your system.
Simulation Purchase
Many of the simulations featured on NC Simulation Station can be purchased directly via Steam. Please see the links below to go directly to the Steam Store.
PC Building Simulator
Standard Drone Simulator
Liftoff Drone Simulator (Drone Racing)
American Truck Simulator
Cooking Simulator
Bakery Simulator
Two Point Hospital
Farming Simulator 22
Animal Shelter
House Flipper
Construction Simulator
Farm Together
Bus Simulator 18
Electrician Simulator
Simulation Video Tutorials
Each of the simulations will have its own dedicated page that features quick start guides, and playlists that go into much more detail about gameplay concepts. Please click on any of the links below to learn the details about playing each of the simulations.
Farming Simulator 2022 Guide
Construction Simulator Guide
American Truck Simulator Guide
Cooking Simulator Guide