First off if you own the original do not buy this one unless you just have that need for new scenarios. The only reason I purchased roller coaster tycoon 2 was because I was having problems installing the expansion packs for the original (Windows XP). If you own windows XP I would recommend buying this game because it is compatible and for the price it is pretty much the same as buying roller coaster tycoon gold edition (has the original the 2 expansion packs included). To me both RTC gold and RTC2 are the exact same except for a few minor additions which pretty much go un-noticed by a lite gamer as myself.

What new? - Nothing much, but since I'm writing a review I need to waste my time to tell you all the little things that were adding. Now available are actual ride replicas of six-flag's roller coasters. I believe this selling point did not work at all for anyone. You’re supposed to get new rides, the developer Chris Sawyer to me got lazy by adding very few new rides to use. Just because you get six flags to endorse your game does not mean you can skimp on new rides. The roller coaster developer program to be honest is a feature I have never used. But from my understanding you can build your own coasters and use them in game scenarios. A bonus to gamers who spend hours on the game but for me wasted hard drive space. A few new scenery items and pretty much you have a horrible and disappointing sequel to great game.

Game-play: If I wrote a review on the first game just look at that. (Im being sarcastic don't go looking) Everything to me is the same. The interface looks the same, the rides are the same, and the angry customers are the same. Same, same, same same same!!! I am sorry for this short review on the game play but nothing to me is new.

Sound: ARRGG the same. Really Chris Sawyer should have just called this RTC Platinum because its the same game as the original. About the only good part about the sound is I do like it original and this.

Graphics: I can see and trend can't you? Take a guess what I am about to say about the graphics? THE SAME! About the only difference is you get the coaster editor. The Same guy barfing after 5 loops, yup that’s the same.

My Thoughts: It is very annoying to think that a great concept like this did not need graphical improvement. And for how long fans had to wait for this sequel it is an extreme disappointment. This game was great for windows 98 but nothing graphically was improved. The game play was great, for 1998 but in 2002/03 4 years and they produce the same exact game and expect us to buy it like the people did for the original? NO WAY! I am sorry for such a short review for the people who know nothing about this game. If you have never played this game before believe me it is very addicting and fun to play. The concept of building to meet the goals is fun for anyone. Even if you care nothing about goals and want to build your dream theme park go for it.

BOTTOM LINE: If you have never played this game before and own windows XP I would recommend giving this game a try if it strikes your fancy. If you don’t like simulation games and spending a couple of hours a day stay clear (bc the game is addicting) If you have played the original you have played this game, trust me on that!


Recommended: No