Farming Simulator 17 is a single-player and multiplayer farming simulation game. Players assume the role of a modern farmer managing their own agricultural business, with the freedom to cultivate fields, raise livestock, and expand their operations through the use of machinery and trade. The game provides an open-world setting where progress is shaped by how efficiently land and resources are used to generate income and build a profitable farm.

The core gameplay revolves around crop cultivation. Players plow, sow, fertilize, and harvest a wide variety of crops, from staples such as wheat and corn to more specialized produce like soybeans and sunflowers. Farm equipment from licensed brands can be purchased and upgraded, ranging from tractors and combines to seed drills and forestry machinery, each with distinct handling and capabilities. Harvested crops can be sold at fluctuating market prices, requiring careful timing and management to maximize profit.

Beyond crops, players can raise livestock including cows, sheep, and pigs. Each type of animal requires care through feeding, cleaning, and breeding systems, with production yielding resources such as milk, wool, and manure. Forestry is also available as a parallel business path, allowing trees to be cut, processed, and sold using dedicated vehicles and tools. Earnings can be reinvested into additional land, more advanced machinery, or expanded facilities.

Secondary gameplay elements include side missions provided by neighboring farms, where equipment can be leased temporarily to complete tasks for extra income. The economy features multiple selling points and transport options such as trains, trucks, and trailers. Multiplayer mode supports cooperative farming, enabling players to divide responsibilities, pool resources, and expand operations more quickly.

The game also supports extensive customization and modding, with players able to add new vehicles, maps, and gameplay features created by the community. Seasonal cycles and dynamic weather influence planting and harvesting conditions, while the management interface allows for fine-tuned control over workers, finances, and production lines. Together, these systems provide flexibility for players to pursue large-scale agribusiness or smaller, specialized operations.