Prison Simulator is a single-player simulation game that places players in the role of a prison guard responsible for maintaining order among inmates. The experience blends elements of action, adventure, RPG, and casual simulation as players handle daily responsibilities inside a correctional facility. Developed by Baked Games and released for PC in 2021, the title focuses on routine tasks, inmate management, and personal choices that shape how the guard interacts with the prison environment.
Gameplay
Core gameplay revolves around a structured daily schedule that includes roll call, work periods, free time, and the end of a shift. Players conduct searches for contraband hidden in various locations, perform gun maintenance, and participate in recreational activities such as shooting hoops during breaks. The prisoner creator allows customization of inmate names, appearances, and detailed backstories, with support for up to fifteen prisoners in the main block. Interactions during yard time or workshops can lead to conflicts that require intervention to restore order. Gun handling and contraband discovery add layers of tension to the guard duties, while the freedom to choose behavior as either a strict enforcer or a more lenient figure influences how events unfold.
Game Modes
Two primary modes structure the experience. Campaign mode follows a guided progression through scheduled shifts and events, building toward a narrative arc centered on prison life. Free play mode removes time constraints and objectives, allowing unrestricted exploration of guard duties and inmate interactions without advancing a story. Both modes emphasize simulation of routine prison operations rather than competitive or multiplayer elements.
Prison Management and Daily Routines
Management tasks include overseeing workshops where inmates produce goods that generate revenue for the facility. Morning roll calls often involve breaking up fights, while yard periods can escalate into larger disturbances requiring quick response. The game incorporates mature themes such as violence and references to drugs through its depictions of inmate behavior and contraband. These elements combine with light RPG progression tied to completing shifts and handling incidents effectively.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception has remained consistently positive, with English reviews on the primary distribution platform showing an 81 percent approval rating across more than seven hundred reviews. The simulation appeals to those interested in prison guard duties, inmate management, and open-ended daily routines. Its straightforward structure and streaming-friendly moments make it suitable for players seeking a casual yet engaging single-player experience. Those who enjoy managing schedules, responding to incidents, and customizing elements like prisoner profiles will find the most value, while individuals looking for high-action sequences or extensive content updates may find the scope more limited. The game continues to receive occasional visibility through sales and maintains its core systems without major expansions.
