Difficulty:

Easy

Time Spent:

100 or More Hours

The Bottom Line:

"Instant classic"

This game may seem outdated compared to future sequels and similar roller coaster simulators (Thrillville being the main one I think of), but for $5.99 on GOG.com, with both expansions I might add, it is a worthwhile deal for a wonderful classic. There are limitations due to age that are a little annoying, like the 4-angle rotation. That's why this game doesn't get a 10/10. But this game is just amazing. It is easy to learn how to work, unlike many other simulators I have tried. For example, I can't play SimCity because I don't understand how it all works, despite many attempts. But I've been playing Roller Coaster Tycoon since I was 8-9. Wow, it's been over 10 years since I first played this!
Even if you don't make your own roller coasters, which is fun in itself, you have lots of options for rides. There is an unbelievable amount of customization for the time as well :) You can choose the colour of the rides, the food stands, even the paths! It's not as customizable as something like the Sims series, but it's more then most other simulator games I have tried from the time.
Anyway, I say give Roller Coaster Tycoon a shot, especially if you're a fan of easy to learn games with charm.