Is NC Code Simulation worth it?

All right, we all love seeing it posted here. But clearly, nobody wants to crash a machine, scrap a part, or call the customer and tell them how they can't meet the schedule because they are waiting for a new raw part.

However, even the big names of NC Code Simulation, like Vericut, are not guaranteed to catch every issue and do not make running a program risk-free. And they certainly don't come for free...

Toolpath/APT-based simulation in CAM has many critics, but is it really that bad in 2024? "Uh, back in 2008 MASTERCAN'T didn't catch that one error - that's why it's sh*t, SH*T!!" is something I read a lot... But it feels like these opinions might be outdated.

It's difficult for me to judge. Visiting IMTS certainly didn't help - people want to sell, and I don't blame them. Obviously, CAM simulation is the greatest for those who only have CAM simulation on their price list. And if you talk to the Vericut folks, you start questioning your sanity because you're not yet using Vericut. The leaflets and calculations about cost savings always look great, and the free coffee usually tastes good...

What's your experience with CAM Simulation?

Do you use CAM or NC Code simulation? For all jobs or just specific ones?