Playing Games About Mundane Jobs
Tuesday, 2026/04/07167 words3 minutes350 reads
PowerWash Simulator and similar games are part of a growing trend called "mundane job simulations." These games let players do routine tasks like cleaning, mowing lawns, or maintaining pools. Despite their simple premise, PowerWash Simulator has sold over 17 million copies since 2021.
Kirsty Rigden, CEO of FuturLab, explains that these games offer a form of meditation. "The world is in quite a stressy place," she says. The repetitive nature of the tasks helps players focus and block out distractions. The satisfaction comes from transforming something messy into something clean.
These games have become especially popular with content creators on YouTube and Twitch. Streamers can chat with their audience while playing because the games don't require intense concentration. Comedian Ellie Gibson even set a Guinness World Record by playing PowerWash Simulator for over 24 hours.
Research from Oxford University found that 72% of players experienced improved mood while playing. The developers have received messages from people saying the games helped them through difficult times, including cancer treatments.
