Overview
One man’s obsession became millions of hours spent. Chris Sawyer programmed RollerCoaster Tycoon almost entirely in assembly language, achieving performance that let hundreds of guests navigate elaborate parks. The coaster builder provided endless creativity. The management layer added challenge. Watching guests enjoy (or vomit from) your creations provided satisfaction unique to gaming.
Fast facts
- Developer: Chris Sawyer.
- Publisher: Hasbro/Infogrames.
- Year: 1999.
- Language: 99% assembly.
Coaster creation
| Tool | Function |
|---|
| Track types | Variety of styles |
| Height/banking | Precise control |
| Testing | Safety verification |
| Ratings | Excitement/intensity/nausea |
Park management
| System | Depth |
|---|
| Finances | Budget balancing |
| Staff | Handymen, mechanics |
| Guests | Needs, satisfaction |
| Scenarios | Objective challenges |
Technical achievement
| Aspect | Implementation |
|---|
| Assembly code | Performance |
| Guest AI | Pathfinding, behaviour |
| Physics | Coaster simulation |
| Scale | Hundreds of guests |
Guest behaviour
| Need | Response |
|---|
| Hunger | Food stalls |
| Thirst | Drink stalls |
| Nausea | Benches, first aid |
| Happiness | Ride satisfaction |
Series expansion
| Title | Year |
|---|
| RollerCoaster Tycoon | 1999 |
| Loopy Landscapes | 2000 |
| RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 | 2002 |
| RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 | 2004 |
See also