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 2022
Techradar Budget Gaming Desktops – February 2022
Best Budget Desktop Gaming Monitors -March 2022
Best Budget Desktop Video Card -May 2020
Xbox Wireless Controller
Truck/Bus Steering Wheel Buying Guide – 2022
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
Liftoff Drone Simulator
American Truck Simulator
Car Mechanic Simulator 2018
Car Mechanic Simulator 2015
Cooking Simulator
Two Point Hospital
Farming Simulator 19
Farm Together
Bus Simulator 18
Construction Simulator 15
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 2019 Guide Page
American Truck Simulator Guide Page
Cooking Simulator Guide Page