Some questions, like Nero's pill preference, may be settled by simply running the simulation at some constrained point in space-time.

But to see how those effects might propagate through the continuum, it may be necessary to execute the Full Monty. Like for example, will his capsule choice lead to humans developing a Galactic Empire a thousand centuries later?

Actually, I kind of like the idea of the souls created in the simulation NOT being the point of the simulation, but just an unfortunate by-product. That sounds a lot more like how I believe our present universe is organized, with God as a comedian. The Great Programmer has other questions he's working on, he may not care how we turn out; he may not even know we're here.

How concerned are you about the bacteria in your garden soil, or in the evolutionary destiny of your intestinal flora? My universe is neither hostile nor benign. Its indifferent.