Hunting Simulator 3 PC brings the simulation hunting franchise to Windows through Steam, developed by Nacon Studio Ghent and published by Nacon. The game features an open-world setup across Colorado and Texas, driven by the proprietary SimFauna dynamic ecosystem, officially licensed weapons, vehicle transport, and working hunting dogs.
According to the official Steam store page, the release date is scheduled for October 29, 2026, though select retail partner listings note October 28, 2026. A playable demo version is set to appear during Steam Next Fest.
PC System Requirements
The official Steam product page lists a 64-bit installation of Windows 11 as mandatory across both minimum and recommended tiers, alongside a DirectX 12 compatible setup and 25 GB of available storage space.
| Hardware Component | Minimum Specification | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 (64-bit) | Windows 11 (64-bit) |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-9400F or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 | Intel Core i5-14600K (3.5 GHz) or AMD Ryzen 9 7900X (4.7 GHz) |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Graphics Card | AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT (6 GB) or Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 (6 GB) | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 (8 GB) or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT (16 GB) |
| DirectX | Version 12 | Version 12 |
| Storage Space | 25 GB available space | 25 GB available space |
PC Display Options and Controller Compatibility
Official Steam technical data confirms that the PC build includes full controller support, featuring native compatibility with both DualShock and DualSense controllers, customizable volume controls, and adjustable camera comfort options. Steam platform integrations include Steam Cloud saves, Steam Achievements, and Steam Leaderboards.
In early access test footage on PC, the game defaults with Nvidia DLSS enabled in the graphics settings to improve rendering performance. Players running test builds observed smoother capture performance when setting launch options to borderless or full-screen display modes.
PC Gameplay Mechanics and Controls
The PC version maps navigation, ballistics, and dog handling to standard keyboard and mouse inputs, alongside full gamepad support.
- Holding the Shift key steadies weapon aim and holds the hunter's breath.
- A quick tap of the Control key crouches, while holding the Control key causes the character to go fully prone.
- Pressing C opens the companion command wheel to direct your hunting dog with commands such as Scout or scent tracking.
- Scoped rifles feature ballistic indicators on target, including a red diamond reticle indicator reflecting bullet drop and wind drift.
- Integrated photo mode features camera adjustments, including keyboard-based roll controls via C and X.
Vehicles such as the Polaris Ranger EV provide fast travel across the reserves, with optional upgrades available for loadout boxes and specialized dog transport.
Calibers, Ethics, and Licensing Systems
Hunting Simulator 3 enforces realistic hunting regulations through caliber restrictions and region-specific permits. Firing an incorrect ammunition caliber—such as taking a black bear with a .243 rifle—triggers an on-screen warning and slashes harvest payout to a nominal credit.
Hunters acquire regional tags through a license counter at the base lodge, offering options ranging from single-kill allowances (such as six mule deer or eight bighorn sheep) to permanent unlimited tags for specific game like whitetail deer. Successful harvests yield cash credits based on shot placement, animal age, harvest speed, and license validity, or can be mounted in the customizable lodge for a taxidermy fee.
Officially licensed brands featured in the game include:
- Firearms and bows: Remington, Beretta, Winchester, Browning, Bear Archery, and Verney-Carron
- Vehicles: Polaris
- Hunting apparel: Kryptek and Browning Pro Hunt
Available PC Editions
Retail listings and digital storefronts confirm two primary PC packages for Steam:
- Standard Edition: Contains the base game.
- Apex Predator Edition: Bundles the base game with the Apex Predator Pack DLC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What store client runs Hunting Simulator 3 on PC?
Hunting Simulator 3 is registered under Steam App ID 2482760 and activates directly via a Steam account on PC.
Can Hunting Simulator 3 run on Windows 10?
The official developer requirements specify Windows 11 (64-bit) for both minimum and recommended configurations. Compatibility with Windows 10 is not confirmed in available official documentation.
Does the PC release support hunting dogs?
Yes. Players select specialized dog breeds—including yellow Labradors and hound breeds—managed in the field via the command wheel to detect tracks, follow blood trails, and retrieve harvested small game.
Which regions are included in the game?
The official Steam feature list confirms two major wilderness settings: deepest Colorado and the outback of Texas.
