Are you looking to create realistic simulations for your business or educational purposes, but don’t want to spend a fortune? Look no further! With these tips and tricks, you can design realistic simulations without breaking the bank.

Use Pre-Made Assets 🎨🌳

Creating everything from scratch can be time-consuming and expensive. Instead, use pre-made assets like 3D objects, textures, and sounds from online marketplaces like the Unity Asset Store. This allows you to focus on the overall design and functionality of your simulation while also keeping costs low.

A screenshot of the Unity Asset Store web page

Limit the Scope 📏🕑

Keep your simulation’s scope limited to a specific topic or theme. This allows you to focus on the details, making it feel more realistic without having to design every single aspect. By doing this, you’ll save money and also have a more polished final product.

A screenshot of a virtual reality simulation with a limited scope of a hospital room

Choose the Right Software 💻👨‍💻

Various software is available for simulation design ranging from 2D to 3D. However, not all software is the best for designing simulations. Consider using Unity, a popular game engine that allows cross-platform deployment and has a vast selection of tools and assets. In contrast, other software may require specialized knowledge or additional costs to get your desired output.

A screenshot of the Unity software with all its tools and features

Conduct User Testing 🧑‍🔬🤝

The ultimate objective of realistic simulation design is creating an effective user experience. Conduct user testing during the development process to identify potential issues and prioritize areas in need of refinement. User testing doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket, it can range from informal feedback from colleagues or students to formal research and surveys.

A screenshot of students testing a simulation in a classroom

Utilize Free Learning Resources 📚👨‍🏫

Learning simulation design and programming can be a task of its own. Several online resources offer free tutorials and guides you can follow, including Unity Learn. Moreover, various online communities have experts ready to answer all kinds of simulation design questions, making it more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

A screenshot of Unity Learn's free courses and tutorials

Conclusion 🎉👍

Simulation design can be intimidating, but it does not have to be costly. By using pre-made assets and choosing suitable software, focusing on the right scope and engaging in user testing, and utilizing free online resources, you can create realistic simulations without breaking the bank.

A screenshot of a final realistic simulation project