Written for practitioners, curriculum developers, and researchers, the document presents evaluation criteria which were developed from an extensive review of research along with the experiences of the author with microcomputer social studies simulation games. The major portion of the document presents the review of research according to seven concerns: definitions of microcomputer-based social studies simulation games, effectiveness of the games, effectiveness of computer-based education, methods for reviewing simulation games, methods for reviewing computer software, instructional theories related to computer-based education, and methods for reviewing social studies simulation games specifically. The second part of the document presents four categories of questions to use when evaluating software programs. The first group of questions is directed toward the new user and the second group assumes some level of computer literacy on the part of the user. Both groups are concerned with computer programs in general. The third group of questions focuses on social studies simulation games specifically: what social science concepts are being taught, how the algorithm is flowcharted, how much flexibility is possible, what skills are used by the learner, and what kinds of group skills might be promoted. The last list provides questions for researchers and curriculum developers which concern objectives, adaptability, affective outcomes, graphics, and necessary changes in school organization. (KC)