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Unemployment Simulator 2018 Release Details, Platforms, and Pricing

Unemployment Simulator 2018.
Unemployment Simulator 2018 | Image credit: Samuel Lehikoinen

Unemployment Simulator 2018 officially launches today, February 3, 2026, on PC via Steam.


Developed by solo creator Samuel Lehikoinen and published by Turbolento Publishing, the game blends dark humor with survival mechanics, offering a unique take on the struggles of long-term unemployment.


The title is described as a “social welfare survival” experience, mixing pixel art with stat management and narrative progression. Players are confined to a small apartment, managing survival stats such as dopamine, anxiety, fatigue, health, and even alcohol levels. Everyday tasks like cleaning, eating, and applying for jobs become central to gameplay, while entertainment options like playing guitar, scrolling memes, or drinking beer help balance mood. Sleep sequences introduce bizarre dreamscapes, adding surreal humor to the otherwise heavy themes.


Release Timing

The game unlocks globally at different times:

  • Pacific (US West Coast): 8:00 AM, Feb 3

  • Eastern (US East Coast): 11:00 AM, Feb 3

  • London (GMT): 4:00 PM, Feb 3

  • Paris (CET): 5:00 PM, Feb 3

  • Dubai (GST): 8:00 PM, Feb 3

  • India (IST): 9:30 PM, Feb 3

  • Singapore (SGT): 12:00 AM, Feb 4

  • Tokyo (JST): 1:00 AM, Feb 4

  • Sydney (AEDT): 3:00 AM, Feb 4


Platforms and Pricing

  • PC exclusive (Windows, via Steam).

  • No console ports planned.

  • Price: $9.99 (currently 20% discount)

  • A free demo is available, offering a preview of the core loop.


Features and Content

  • Single-player only with roguelite elements and multiple endings.

  • Pixel art visuals and an original soundtrack by Wilson Tanner Smith.

  • Steam Achievements and cloud saves are supported.

  • Mature themes include depression, anxiety, mild nudity, and alcohol use.


The game’s development journey began as a personal project, with its first trailer appearing in 2024. It gained traction during Steam Next Fest 2025, where the demo received strong feedback. According to PC Gamer, it was praised as “the most honest survival game I’ve ever played”, highlighting its blend of humor, trauma, and authenticity.

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