The line between virtual and real is blurring, and for a growing number of young people, that intersection is found in the surprisingly detailed world of agricultural simulation. , 20 Minutes reported on the impact of Farming Simulator, the leading agricultural simulation game, on aspiring agricultural professionals. The game allows players to control and manage a farm with various virtual functions, vehicles, and tools, all within a defined budget.
Mathias Roussignol, a second-year student in Agricultural Equipment Engineering (BTS GÉA), aspires to become an agricultural machinery salesperson. He credits Farming Simulator with sparking this ambition. Along with two classmates, Roussignol won the French Agricultural Education Cup in the game of last year. He shared with 20 Minutes how the simulation has impacted his early career in the agricultural sector.
A Decade of Virtual Farming
Roussignol’s journey with Farming Simulator began at age 10, roughly a decade ago. He’s progressed through several iterations of the game, starting with Farming Simulator 2015 and continuing with versions 2019, 2022, and now 2025. He discovered the game independently, as his parents are not from agricultural backgrounds, but he’s been passionate about the field since childhood.
“The game allowed me to live this passion virtually, because I didn’t have the opportunity to do so in reality,” Roussignol explained. “I discovered the operation of agricultural machinery like tractors and combine harvesters through it. It’s definitely the game that pushed me to pursue studies in Agricultural Equipment Engineering. As I grew older, I gained experience in the real world, but my passion first developed through Farming Simulator.”
From Simulation to Practical Knowledge
The game wasn’t just entertainment; it provided a foundation of practical knowledge. Roussignol stated that Farming Simulator taught him a great deal about agricultural machinery and its evolution, knowledge he later deepened in his studies. He noted the increasing realism of the simulation, highlighting the significant improvements between the 2015 and 2025 versions, particularly in financial management of machinery, and crops. He acknowledges, however, that some aspects remain unrealistic, specifically the selling prices of goods.
“I know that some aspects of the game are exaggerated. I realize this thanks to my studies,” he said.
A Catalyst for Career Choice
Roussignol believes his interest in agriculture would likely have taken a different path without the game. “Even though I already liked this field, I might have chosen another direction, like an engineering school,” he stated. “The game really helped me develop my passion and orient myself towards agricultural studies. For me, and for other players, Farming Simulator can encourage young people to pursue these professions. For those who don’t come from the field, it can spark vocations.”
Competitive Farming: The French Agricultural Education Cup
Roussignol and his team’s success in the French Agricultural Education Cup demonstrates the game’s growing competitive scene. The first phase of the competition involved a pre-selection based on a bale of straw loading challenge. The 16 fastest teams qualified for a second online phase in arena mode, where the objective was to harvest wheat, produce bales, and deliver them for maximum points.
The top eight teams then competed in person at the Lanaud center near Limoges, France, in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final. Roussignol’s team emerged victorious. “It’s a source of pride to have won it. All those hours spent on the game were beneficial,” he said.
The State of French Agriculture
Roussignol offered a realistic assessment of the current state of the agricultural sector in France, describing it as increasingly complex and demanding. He emphasized the need for perseverance and further education. He also pointed out that Farming Simulator doesn’t always reflect the difficulties inherent in real-world farming. “Managing a farm is much more complex in reality,” he noted.
Future Participation and the Salon de l’Agriculture
Roussignol is unsure if he’ll participate in future competitions due to his academic commitments. He will be entering his license program, and his studies remain a priority. Regarding the Salon de l’Agriculture (Agricultural Show), he expressed more interest in the machinery exhibits than the livestock. Notably, he indicated he wouldn’t attend the show as cattle will not be present, considering them the “heart of the event.” However, he would be tempted to participate if a competition were organized at the show next year.
The success of Farming Simulator, as highlighted by Roussignol’s story, extends beyond entertainment. It’s a powerful tool for education, career exploration, and fostering a new generation’s appreciation for the complexities and challenges of modern agriculture. According to a report by ONE Esports, the game has sold millions of copies worldwide since its first release in , and continues to grow in popularity, incorporating player feedback and maintaining a strong modding community.
