Russian Officials Outline a Homegrown Life-Simulation Concept Aligned with Traditional Values
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko received a formal proposal from a coalition of State Duma lawmakers to explore a localized life-simulation game. The project would mirror the popular life-simulation genre while grounding its content in traditional Russian spiritual and moral principles. The report, cited by TASS from a document addressed to Chernyshenko, frames this as an effort to provide a domestic alternative to existing titles that are widely played by millions, including younger audiences.
The initiative originated from representatives spanning four factions in the State Duma. Yana Lantratova, the first deputy chair of the education committee, represents A Just Russia – For Truth. Nina Ostanina, a member of the Communist Party, chairs the committee on family, women and children, labor, social policy and the relations committee, veterans. Yaroslav Nilov, from LDPR, and Ekaterina Stenyakina of United Russia serve as committee members. The lawmakers point to video games as a significant facet of cultural life and leisure for many Russians, noting a study by Kaspersky Lab indicating that a substantial majority of Russian children engage with video games.
They emphasize that life-simulation titles, where players manage virtual characters in a constructed world, occupy an important place in this landscape. The reference point for discussion remains The Sims series, which has garnered a global audience surpassing 70 million players in its most recent instalment. The debate centers on how such games influence youth, both in terms of engagement and value transmission, and what a homegrown option could offer in this context.
Critics of the international game argue that certain content promotes behaviors that diverge from widely held traditional values in Russia. The proposal takes note of the game’s widespread appeal among young audiences despite its official 18+ rating, and it invites scrutiny of content that may clash with cultural norms. The intended domestic project would seek to balance engaging gameplay with educational elements rooted in family life, personal responsibility, and social conduct, framed within a national context.
Proponents of a Russian life-simulation title suggest that an exclusively domestic product could provide young players with practical knowledge applicable to real life. The design concept aims to simulate healthy family dynamics, including partnership, parenting, and child development, while integrating foundations of Russian legislation and civic understanding. In addition, the project would incorporate lessons on financial literacy, acceptable social behavior, and communication skills essential for navigating everyday interactions in contemporary society. The emphasis is on fostering critical thinking and information hygiene, enabling players to discern reliable information and reflect on the consequences of their choices in a secure learning environment.
In parallel to domestic discussions, there is a mention of related titles and experiments in the broader market. An example cited in industry observations references a game on Steam described as a “Russian village simulator” with a focus on traditional crafts and everyday life, highlighting how regional themes can shape gameplay while illustrating the diverse spectrum of interactive experiences available to Russian audiences. This comparative lens informs the ongoing policy conversation about balancing cultural preservation with global gaming trends, player welfare, and the role of entertainment media in youth development.