timeless gem: still refreshing and engaging after nearly a decade.
I've owned the game, and its two subsequent expansion packs, since 2000. I was almost immediately drawn to the game. Though it appeared simple - for its graphics were average at best even back then - there was substance and depth with the myriad of options, customizations, and and almost limitless room for creativity that you can't help but "overlook" some of its less standout features. Even with that said, the graphics were adequate (in the positive sense) and quite appropriate. With so much action and movement on the screen, I think it almost begged for a simpler and distinctive look. The accompanying sound effects are necessarily placed where appropriate to help usher the feel and atmosphere of the amusement park, right in your own home. There is nothing pretentious or over the top. Rollercoaster Tycoon does what is necessary to translate the vision of Chris Sawyer into realty (while still maintaining it a profitable product for the publishers!).
Examining to the present, the fact that the game itself is still being circulated regularly and sold in general stores shows that Rollercoaster Tycoon is something lasting. Like a good piece of literature, the message and value transcends time itself. Often times, newer games focus more on the stunning visual details, instead of the overall playability. We don't play games simply for the looks alone. Of course, a well made game is certainly more welcoming with great graphical presentation too. Anyhow, I just want give praise to Rollercoaster Tycoon for providing those fond childhood memories and most importantly, fun. I was just playing it the other day after many years of hiatus, and it still brings out the same enthusiasm out of me as I erect the roller coasters and attempt to keep my park guests content and satisfied.
Lastly, I just want to say that I hope that there will be a 4th iteration of the Rollercoaster Tycoon franchise. The rumors seems to be that the plug has been pulled recently by Atari because of less than spectacular sales. However things turn out, I hope there will be a publisher that will pick up the pieces and renew the series. I like where they were heading with the full blown 3D rendition of the game with the second sequel, Rollercoaster Tycoon 3, but there is obviously still room for improvements. Perhaps there will be one, in the near future, that is as well-rounded gameplay-wise as it is visual-wise. In other words, a near flawless, even more exceptional presentation of Chris Sawyer's idea of the ultimate amusement park simulation. And let's hope my computer will be able to run it, too...