Power-washing, pool-cleaning and mowing: Why millions are playing games about mundane jobs
Power-Washing, Pool-Cleaning and Mowing: Why Millions Are Playing Games About Mundane Jobs
The Appeal of Repetitive Simulations
PowerWash Simulator immerses players in the act of cleaning, where they don gear and use hoses to transform grime-covered environments into pristine spaces. Though the premise might seem quirky, the original game, launched in 2021, has sold over 17 million copies. Its 2025 sequel recently earned two Bafta Games Awards nominations, joining a wave of titles that focus on everyday tasks. These games, often labeled as “mundane job simulations,” have gained traction by offering calming, repetitive activities that mirror real-life routines.
According to Kirsty Rigden, CEO of Brighton-based FuturLab, the studio aims to create a game akin to Graham Norton’s talk show. “We want the experience to feel like Graham Norton’s style of television,” Rigden explained to BBC News. “It doesn’t demand intense focus but still provides a sense of accomplishment.” This approach has resonated with players seeking a gentle escape from daily stress, as Rigden noted, “It’s a pure form of meditation that blocks out distractions.”
From YouTube to Virtual Worlds
Rigden’s inspiration stemmed from her fascination with YouTube videos showcasing power washing. The game’s design reflects this interest, emphasizing the simplicity of turning dirt into cleanliness. Social media has amplified the trend, with influencers and content creators gaining traction through games that simulate routine chores. For instance, Lawn Mowing Simulator lets players manage a lawn care business using real-world licensed equipment, with a sequel planned to explore American trailer parks and town hall gardens.
David Harper, founder of Liverpool-based Skyhook Games, described the game as a tool for relaxation. “Players often use it as a way to unwind from life’s pressures,” he said. “There’s satisfaction in organizing chaos into order.” This concept has made mundane job simulators popular among streamers, who can engage audiences without needing to focus intensely on gameplay. A 2021 video by US creator Markiplier has garnered over nine million views, highlighting the genre’s appeal.
Therapeutic Benefits and Real-World Impact
Ellie Gibson, a comedian and games journalist, began streaming PowerWash Simulator after a friend suggested it. Her efforts led to a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous play session—24 hours, six minutes, and 33 seconds. Gibson shared that the game’s vibrant colors created a “psychedelic” effect during a late-night session, yet she found it soothing, likening the experience to activities like coloring or knitting. “You end up with a clean monster truck instead of a scarf,” she noted.
“Hearing how our game has helped players manage anxiety and mental health has been incredibly rewarding,” Harper remarked. Rigden added that their titles have even supported individuals through challenging times, such as cancer treatments. “It’s uplifting to see people find comfort in these simple tasks,” she said.
Oxford University conducted a study to explore the games’ effect on well-being. In March 2023, over 8,600 players logged their mood every 10 minutes while playing a modified version of PowerWash Simulator. The findings revealed that 72% of participants reported an emotional uplift during gameplay, reinforcing the genre’s role as a form of digital respite.
