Use of simulation games to develop insights relative to the U.S. political system is discussed. The games involve processes of nomination and election of senators and presidents, campaigning, and legislative decision making. First, selected dimensions of simulation game utilization are reviewed. There is agreement that outcomes of simulation games include student motivation, development of decision-making skills, and nonthreatening teacher-student interaction. Less substantiated outcomes are cooperation, empathy, and learning about competition and the role of chance. In a discussion of specific games which might be valuable in affecting political attitudes and values, special attention is given to development of positive political efficacy in students. Research using different simulation games shows that one game definitely helps develop positive attitudes toward political processes and another influences children from higher economic groups more than lower socioeconomic backgrounds. In a final section, specific games are described which seem especially good for classroom utilization. Some are embedded in curriculum materials; others are freestanding. Sources and costs are given. (AV)