RollerCoaster Tycoon® 2: Triple Thrill Pack
" Classic simulation strategy with deep park management and custom coasters but dated UI and graphics "
RollerCoaster Tycoon® 2: Triple Thrill Pack Review
RollerCoaster Tycoon® 2: Triple Thrill Pack is a timeless classic that has captivated players for over 20 years, combining nostalgia with deep simulation mechanics. This edition bundles the base game with two expansions, Wacky Worlds and Time Twister, significantly expanding content and creative possibilities. Players manage every aspect of their amusement parks, from ride construction and layout to staff management and pricing strategies, all within a charming isometric pixel-art style that remains visually clear and appealing despite its age.
The game’s greatest strength lies in its balance of complexity and accessibility. Its detailed economic systems and visitor behavior models provide a rewarding challenge without overwhelming players, supported by an intuitive interface. Custom rollercoaster design and scenario variety offer endless replayability. While the graphics and UI feel dated and some expansions can be gimmicky, the overall experience remains engaging. The game runs well on modern systems, especially when paired with community tools like OpenRCT2, enhancing stability and features. This pack is highly recommended for fans of simulation and creative management games.
Highlights
Players praise the game's deep and intuitive simulation mechanics, especially the detailed economic and visitor behavior systems.
The custom rollercoaster design feature is highly engaging and central to the game’s appeal.
The bundled expansions add creative diversity and thematic variety, extending the game's longevity.
The pixel-art graphics, while retro, provide clear visuals and charming aesthetics.
The game’s balance of creative freedom and management strategy is widely appreciated.
Criticisms
Some players find the user interface outdated and clunky compared to modern standards.
Graphically, the game shows its age, which may deter new players used to contemporary visuals.
Certain expansions are viewed as gimmicky or less polished in scenario design.
Game stability issues like random crashes and aspect ratio glitches have been reported.
The original game mechanics limit ride pricing options, though community mods help alleviate this.
Pros
- • Deep and rewarding economic and visitor behavior simulation enhances gameplay complexity.
- • Extensive custom rollercoaster design allows for creative and satisfying park building.
- • Includes two expansions offering diverse themes and additional content.
- • Charming and clear pixel-art graphics maintain visual appeal despite age.
- • Intuitive interface gradually introduces management layers without overwhelming players.
- • High replay value with numerous scenarios and sandbox creativity.
- • Runs smoothly on modern systems, especially with community-made patches.
Cons
- • User interface feels dated and less streamlined compared to modern games.
- • Graphics may appear outdated to players expecting contemporary visuals.
- • Some expansion scenarios are gimmicky and less engaging.
- • Reported crashes and bugs affect stability and save functionality.
- • Limited ride pricing mechanics in vanilla game frustrate some players.
- • Aspect ratio issues cause occasional gameplay interruptions.
- • Lack of an overarching story or campaign mode reduces narrative appeal.
Rating Criteria
This compilation includes the entire RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 series, with the original game as well as the Time Twister and Wacky Worlds expansions.
