RollerCoaster Tycoon is Back, and Bubsy Wants a Ride!

Get ready to dust off your park management skills! Atari has just announced a brand-new installment in the beloved RollerCoaster Tycoon franchise, titled RollerCoaster Tycoon Wonderworks, developed by Springloaded, the studio behind the quirky and addictive Let’s Build a Zoo. This isn’t just a rehash; it’s a fresh take on the classic formula with a whole lot of personality.

A New Era for RollerCoaster Tycoon

While Atari has held the rights to the RollerCoaster Tycoon franchise since the early 2000s, attempts to revitalize the series in recent years haven’t quite hit the mark. However, with Wonderworks, it seems like they might have finally cracked the code. The game is launching into Steam Early Access, allowing Atari and Springloaded to collaborate directly with the community throughout development.

“Early Access allows us to involve this passionate community directly in our development process, helping them shape the next great RCT game,” Atari stated. “We want to hear your ideas! What works well? What’s missing? What would you like to see in your ideal RCT game?”

The Steam Early Access page promises a roadmap filled with new parks, attractions, and features, including water-themed content. But more importantly, they are actively soliciting feedback from players to directly influence the game’s evolution.

A Blast From The Past (and Future?)

From what we’re seeing in the announcement trailer, Wonderworks retains the core gameplay loop that made RollerCoaster Tycoon so addictive. However, it also introduces a vibrant “toy” aesthetic to characters and attractions. And get this: Atari is planning to incorporate other retro brands into the game! The trailer even featured a brief cameo of Bubsy, the iconic mascot, wandering around the park (much to the apparent dismay of presenter Kyle Bosman).

Early Access and Beyond

RollerCoaster Tycoon Wonderworks will initially launch in Steam Early Access, with Atari planning to keep it in this phase for approximately a year. The full 1.0 version is slated to include six different parks and the “classic” build mode, which won’t be available during the early access period.

Visit the game’s Steam page for more information and to join the Early Access program.

So, buckle up, park enthusiasts! RollerCoaster Tycoon Wonderworks is shaping up to be a unique and exciting addition to the franchise. With its blend of classic gameplay, fresh visuals, and community-driven development, it’s definitely one to watch.

Check out Tomas Franzese’s Bluesky profile for behind-the-scenes insights into the game’s development.