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30 Games That Will Make You Question Reality 🤯
We’ve all wondered what it would be like to live a different life, haven’t we? Maybe we’d be a world-renowned chef, a fearless explorer, or a master builder. Well, thanks to the magic of video games, we can actually experience these alternate realities! But what about games that truly mimic the complexities of real life? Do they exist? And if so, are they any good? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of real-life simulation games, uncovering the best titles that will make you question the line between virtual and reality.
Key Takeaways
- Real-life simulation games offer a diverse range of experiences, from managing farms and hospitals to building empires and designing roller coasters. 🎢
- These games often feature open-ended gameplay, allowing players the freedom to set their own goals and play at their own pace.
- Many real-life simulation games incorporate elements of other genres, such as role-playing, strategy, and tycoon games, to create unique and engaging experiences.
- The popularity of real-life simulation games can be attributed to their ability to provide players with a sense of control, accomplishment, and escapism. 🏆
- 👉 Shop these real-life simulation games:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Official
- The Sims: EA Official
- Minecraft: Minecraft.net
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts
- The Rise of Real-Life Simulation Games: A History
- What Makes These Games So Appealing?
- The Best Real-Life Simulation Games: A Comprehensive List
- 30. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- 29. The Good Life
- 28. House Flipper
- 27. The Sims 4
- 26. PowerWash Simulator
- 25. Farming Simulator 22
- 24. My Time At Portia
- 23. American Truck Simulator
- 22. Not Tonight
- 21. Reigns: Her Majesty
- 20. SnowRunner
- 19. Littlewood
- 18. VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
- 17. Mega Mall Story
- 16. Two Point Hospital
- 15. Cook-Out: A Sandwich Tale
- 14. Game Dev Story
- 13. The Sims 3
- 12. Animal Crossing: Wild World
- 11. Two Point Campus
- 10. Reigns
- 9. Stardew Valley
- 8. RimWorld
- 7. Cities: Skylines
- 6. Crusader Kings 3
- 5. Dwarf Fortress
- 4. Planet Coaster
- 3. Oxygen Not Included
- 2. Factorio
- 1. Minecraft
- The Future of Real-Life Simulation Games
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- FAQ
- Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts 🕹️
- Real-life simulation games, also known as life simulators, offer a diverse range of experiences, from managing farms and hospitals to building empires and designing roller coasters. 🎢
- These games often feature open-ended gameplay, allowing players the freedom to set their own goals and play at their own pace.
- Many real-life simulation games incorporate elements of other genres, such as role-playing, strategy, and tycoon games, to create unique and engaging experiences.
- The popularity of real-life simulation games can be attributed to their ability to provide players with a sense of control, accomplishment, and escapism. 🏆
- Some popular subgenres include farming simulators (like Stardew Valley), life simulators (like The Sims), and city builders (like Cities: Skylines).
The Rise of Real-Life Simulation Games: A History ⏳
The fascination with simulating real life in video games dates back to the early days of the medium. Remember playing SimCity as a kid and feeling like a digital god? We do! 🤩 That feeling of creation and control is a huge part of what makes these games so appealing.
Early Innovators 💾
- 1989: SimCity, developed by Will Wright, is released and quickly becomes a hit, popularizing the city-building genre. 🏙️
- 1991: Sid Meier’s Civilization emerges, introducing the world to the captivating world of turn-based historical strategy. ⚔️
The Sims Phenomenon 💖
- 2000: The Sims, created by Will Wright after the success of SimCity, takes the world by storm, becoming a cultural phenomenon and establishing the life simulation genre as we know it. 🏡
Branching Out and Specializing 🌾👨🍳🏥
- 2000s: The success of The Sims leads to a surge in popularity for life simulation games, with titles like Harvest Moon and Diner Dash capturing the hearts of players. 👨🌾
- 2010s – Present: The genre continues to evolve and diversify, with games like Stardew Valley, Cities: Skylines, and RimWorld pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in real-life simulation.
What Makes These Games So Appealing? 🤔
Why are we so drawn to games that mimic the very things we experience in our daily lives?
1. Escapism and Relaxation 😌
Let’s face it, real life can be stressful! Sometimes, we just want to escape to a world where we can grow virtual vegetables, build our dream homes, or run a successful business without the pressures of the real world.
2. Control and Mastery 🕹️
Real-life simulation games often give us a sense of control and agency that we may not always feel in our everyday lives. Want to design a city with perfectly synchronized traffic flow? You got it! 🚦 Want to create a self-sufficient farm where the crops never die? Go for it! 🌻 These games let us indulge our inner control freaks in a safe and satisfying way.
3. Creativity and Expression 🎨
Many real-life simulation games provide players with robust tools for customization and self-expression. From designing the perfect home to crafting intricate contraptions, these games allow us to tap into our creative side and build something uniquely our own.
4. Social Connection and Competition 🤝🏆
Multiplayer real-life simulation games, like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, allow us to connect with friends and family in virtual worlds, sharing our creations, collaborating on projects, and even engaging in some friendly competition.
5. Learning and Exploration 📚
Believe it or not, real-life simulation games can actually be educational! Games like Kerbal Space Program and PC Building Simulator teach players about complex subjects like rocket science and computer hardware in a fun and engaging way.
The Best Real-Life Simulation Games: A Comprehensive List 🎮
Ready to dive into the world of real-life simulation? Here at Games Like™, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best and most popular titles across various platforms, from PC and consoles to mobile devices. Whether you’re a seasoned virtual farmer or a budding city planner, there’s a game out there for you!
30. Animal Crossing: New Horizons 🏝️
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Genre: Social Simulation
Escape to a deserted island and build your own personal paradise in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Customize your home, befriend adorable animal villagers, and create a thriving community.
29. The Good Life 🐶🕵️♀️
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Life Simulation, Adventure
Unravel a mystery in a quirky English village where the residents transform into cats and dogs at night. Explore the town, take on odd jobs, and snap photos as you try to pay off a massive debt.
28. House Flipper 🏠🔨
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | Android | iOS
Genre: Simulation
Live out your home renovation dreams without the real-world mess and expense! Buy, clean, renovate, and furnish dilapidated houses, then sell them for a profit.
27. The Sims 4 👨👩👧👦🏡
Platform(s): PC (EA app) | Mac (EA app) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One
Genre: Life Simulation
The latest installment in the iconic life simulation series, The Sims 4, allows you to create and control virtual people, guiding them through every aspect of their lives, from careers and relationships to building their dream homes.
26. PowerWash Simulator ✨💦
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation
Sometimes, the most satisfying things in life are the simplest. In PowerWash Simulator, you’ll find zen-like relaxation as you blast away dirt and grime from a variety of surfaces, from cars and houses to playgrounds and even a Mars rover!
25. Farming Simulator 22 🚜🌾
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (GOG) | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | Stadia
Genre: Simulation
Experience the challenges and rewards of running a modern farm. Cultivate crops, raise livestock, and manage your finances as you strive to build a successful agricultural empire.
24. My Time At Portia 🔨🎨
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | Android | iOS
Genre: Simulation, Role-Playing
Rebuild your father’s workshop and become the best builder in Portia! Gather resources, craft items, befriend the locals, and uncover the secrets of this charming post-apocalyptic world.
23. American Truck Simulator 🚛🇺🇸
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam)
Genre: Simulation
Hit the open road and explore the vast landscapes of the United States. Build your trucking empire, haul cargo, and become a king of the road in this realistic trucking simulator.
22. Not Tonight 🛂🍻
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Nintendo Switch | Xbox One
Genre: Simulation
Experience a satirical take on a post-Brexit Britain as you take on the role of a bouncer. Check IDs, manage crowds, and make tough decisions that could have lasting consequences.
21. Reigns: Her Majesty 👑
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
Rule your kingdom with a swipe! Make strategic decisions, balance the needs of your advisors and subjects, and try to stay in power for as long as possible in this unique kingdom management game.
20. SnowRunner ❄️🚛
Platform(s): PC (Epic Games Store) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation
Conquer extreme off-road environments with powerful vehicles. Transport cargo, complete challenging missions, and battle the elements in this immersive trucking simulation.
19. Littlewood 🌳🏘️
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation, Role-Playing
Rebuild your town and create a thriving community in this charming pixel art adventure. Farm, fish, craft, befriend the locals, and unlock the secrets of your past.
18. VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action 🍸🤖
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | PlayStation Vita | Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 4
Genre: Visual Novel, Simulation
Mix drinks and change lives in this atmospheric cyberpunk bartending simulator. Listen to your patrons’ stories, craft the perfect cocktails, and uncover the secrets of Glitch City.
17. Mega Mall Story 🛍️🏢
Platform(s): Android | iOS | Nintendo 3DS
Genre: Simulation, Tycoon
Design, build, and manage your own bustling shopping mall. Attract customers, keep them happy, and expand your mall into a thriving commercial empire.
16. Two Point Hospital 🏥🤪
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
Cure wacky illnesses and manage a quirky hospital in this spiritual successor to Theme Hospital. Design your hospital, hire staff, and treat patients suffering from everything from Light-Headedness to Cubism.
15. Cook-Out: A Sandwich Tale 🥪👨🍳
Platform(s): Oculus Rift | Oculus Quest
Genre: Simulation, Cooperative
Team up with friends in VR and run a chaotic sandwich shop. Take orders, prepare ingredients, assemble delicious sandwiches, and try to keep up with the demands of your hungry customers.
14. Game Dev Story 💻🕹️
Platform(s): Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch | PC (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Tycoon
Have you ever dreamed of running your own video game company? Game Dev Story lets you do just that! Hire developers, manage your budget, create hit games, and become a legend in the gaming industry.
13. The Sims 3 👨👩👧👦🏡
Platform(s): PC (EA app) | Mac (EA app) | PlayStation 3 | Xbox 360 | Wii | Nintendo DS
Genre: Life Simulation
The Sims 3 expanded upon its predecessors with a more open world, deeper customization options, and a greater emphasis on the aspirations and personalities of your Sims.
12. Animal Crossing: Wild World 🏘️🐾
Platform(s): Nintendo DS
Genre: Social Simulation
Animal Crossing: Wild World brought the charm of the series to the Nintendo DS, allowing players to connect with friends and family wirelessly and share their village experiences.
11. Two Point Campus 🏫📚
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
From the creators of Two Point Hospital comes a new challenge: building and running the greatest university campus ever seen! Design wacky courses, manage your staff and students, and keep everyone happy in this hilarious and addictive simulation game.
10. Reigns 👑🃏
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
Rule your kingdom with a flick of your finger! Swipe left or right to make decisions, balance the needs of your advisors and subjects, and try to avoid a gruesome demise in this innovative kingdom management game.
9. Stardew Valley 🌻⛏️
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | PlayStation Vita | iOS | Android
Genre: Simulation, Role-Playing
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and start a new life on your grandfather’s old farm. Grow crops, raise animals, befriend the locals, and find love in this charming and addictive farming RPG.
8. RimWorld 👽🔨
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Strategy, Colony Sim
Lead a colony of survivors on a harsh alien planet. Build a base, manage your colonists’ needs, defend against threats, and try to survive in this challenging and unpredictable colony simulation.
7. Cities: Skylines 🏙️🏗️
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
Genre: City Building, Simulation
Design, build, and manage your own sprawling metropolis. Zone districts, construct roads and infrastructure, provide services to your citizens, and watch your city come to life in this acclaimed city-building simulator.
6. Crusader Kings 3 👑⚔️
Platform(s): PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 5 | Xbox Series X|S
Genre: Grand Strategy, RPG
Lead your dynasty to glory in the Middle Ages. Forge alliances, wage wars, scheme against your rivals, and secure your legacy in this epic historical grand strategy game.
5. Dwarf Fortress ⛏️⛰️
Platform(s): PC (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Roguelike
Lose yourself in the incredibly deep and complex world of Dwarf Fortress. Guide a colony of dwarves, build a mighty fortress, battle subterranean creatures, and experience emergent storytelling like no other game.
4. Planet Coaster 🎢🎡
Platform(s): PC (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Management
Design and build the ultimate theme park in Planet Coaster. Craft thrilling roller coasters, create immersive environments, manage your park’s finances, and keep your guests entertained.
3. Oxygen Not Included 🚀🧑🚀
Platform(s): PC (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Colony Sim
Help your colonists survive on an alien asteroid. Manage their needs, generate resources, research new technologies, and overcome challenging obstacles in this space colony simulation.
2. Factorio 🏭🤖
Platform(s): PC (Steam)
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
Build and automate a massive factory on an alien planet. Mine resources, craft components, optimize production lines, and defend against the local wildlife in this addictive factory building simulator.
1. Minecraft ⛏️🧱
Platform(s): Minecraft.net (available on almost every platform imaginable!)
Genre: Sandbox, Survival, Creative
Minecraft needs no introduction! Explore, build, craft, and survive in this iconic sandbox game that has captured the imaginations of millions worldwide.
The Future of Real-Life Simulation Games 🔮
As technology advances, the future of real-life simulation games looks brighter than ever! With the rise of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), players can expect even more immersive experiences that blur the lines between the digital and physical worlds. Imagine running a farm in your living room or designing a city while walking through it! The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see what developers come up with next!
Conclusion
Real-life simulation games provide a unique and engaging escape from the everyday grind. They offer a sense of control, accomplishment, and creativity that can be both relaxing and stimulating. Whether you’re looking to build a thriving farm, manage a bustling hospital, or explore a post-apocalyptic world, there’s a game out there for you.
Recommended Links
👉 Shop these real-life simulation games:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Official
- The Good Life: PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
- House Flipper: PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | Android | iOS
- The Sims 4: PC (EA app) | Mac (EA app) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | EA Official
- PowerWash Simulator: PC (Steam) | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Nintendo Switch
- Farming Simulator 22: PC (Steam) | Mac (GOG) | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | Stadia
- My Time At Portia: PC (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | Android | iOS
- American Truck Simulator: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam)
- Not Tonight: PC (Steam) | Nintendo Switch | Xbox One
- Reigns: Her Majesty: PC (Steam) | Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch
- SnowRunner: PC (Epic Games Store) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
- Littlewood: PC (Steam) | Nintendo Switch
- VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action: PC (Steam) | PlayStation Vita | Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 4
- Mega Mall Story: Android | iOS | Nintendo 3DS
- Two Point Hospital: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
- Cook-Out: A Sandwich Tale: Oculus Rift | Oculus Quest
- Game Dev Story: Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch | PC (Steam)
- The Sims 3: PC (EA app) | Mac (EA app) | PlayStation 3 | Xbox 360 | Wii | Nintendo DS
- Animal Crossing: Wild World: Nintendo DS
- Two Point Campus: PC (Steam) | PlayStation 5 | PlayStation 4 | Xbox Series X|S | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
- Reigns: PC (Steam) | Android | iOS | Nintendo Switch
- Stardew Valley: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | PlayStation Vita | iOS | Android
- RimWorld: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam)
- Cities: Skylines: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 4 | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch
- Crusader Kings 3: PC (Steam) | Mac (Steam) | Linux (Steam) | PlayStation 5 | Xbox Series X|S
- Dwarf Fortress: PC (Steam)
- Planet Coaster: PC (Steam)
- Oxygen Not Included: PC (Steam)
- Factorio: PC (Steam)
- Minecraft: Minecraft.net
Read more about real-life simulation games:
- The Sims: The Ultimate Guide to Building, Decorating, and Playing
- The Official Stardew Valley Cookbook: Recipes Inspired by the Game
- The Art of Minecraft: Creating Worlds and Building Structures
FAQ
Is there a game that simulates real life? 🤔
Not exactly! While many games strive to create realistic experiences, replicating the complexities and nuances of real life is a daunting task. Games can simulate certain aspects of life, such as building a career, managing relationships, or running a business, but they can’t capture the full spectrum of human experience.
What is the closest game to life?
That’s a subjective question! The closest game to life depends on what aspects of life you’re most interested in simulating. For example, if you’re looking for a game that captures the mundane aspects of everyday life, The Sims might be a good choice. If you’re more interested in the challenges of running a business, Game Dev Story could be a better fit.
How to play real life like a game? 🎮
Gamifying your life can be a fun and motivating way to approach your goals. Here are a few tips:
- Set clear goals: What do you want to achieve in your life? Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps.
- Track your progress: Keep a journal or use a productivity app to track your progress towards your goals.
- Reward yourself: Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.
- Embrace challenges: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.
- Find your flow: Identify activities that make you feel fully immersed and engaged.
Which game is realistic?
“Realistic” is a relative term. Some games strive for realism in their graphics, physics, or gameplay mechanics, while others focus on capturing the essence of a particular aspect of life. Ultimately, the most realistic game for you depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience.
Read more about “100 Nintendo Switch Games You Absolutely NEED to Play … 🕹️”
Reference Links
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Animal Crossing: Nintendo Official
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The Good Life: Swery65 Official Website
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House Flipper: PlayWay Official Website
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The Sims: EA Official
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PowerWash Simulator: FuturLab Official Website
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Farming Simulator: Giants Software Official Website
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My Time At Portia: Pathea Games Official Website
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American Truck Simulator: SCS Software Official Website
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Not Tonight: PanicBarn Official Website
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SnowRunner: Saber Interactive Official Website
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Littlewood: Sean Young Official Website
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VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action: Sukeban Games Official Website
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Mega Mall Story: Kairosoft Official Website
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Two Point Hospital: Two Point Studios Official Website
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Cook-Out: A Sandwich Tale: Team Meat Official Website
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Game Dev Story: Kairosoft Official Website
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The Sims 3: EA Official
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Animal Crossing: Wild World: Nintendo Official
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Two Point Campus: Two Point Studios Official Website
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Stardew Valley: ConcernedApe Official Website
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RimWorld: Ludeon Studios Official Website
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Cities: Skylines: Paradox Interactive Official Website
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Crusader Kings 3: Paradox Interactive Official Website
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Dwarf Fortress: Bay 12 Games Official Website
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Planet Coaster: Frontier Developments Official Website
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Oxygen Not Included: Klei Entertainment Official Website
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Factorio: Wube Software Official Website
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Minecraft: Mojang Studios Official Website
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Most Realistic Games 2024 for Phones – TapTap: TapTap