OpenRCT2
An open-source re-implementation of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, adding modern features, multiplayer, and cross-platform support.
What is OpenRCT2?
OpenRCT2 is an open-source game engine that re-implements RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, a classic construction and management simulation video game. It allows players to build and manage amusement parks, complete with rides, shops, and guest management, while solving the original game's compatibility issues with modern systems. The project expands upon the original with new features, multiplayer support, and ongoing community development.
Fans of classic simulation games, particularly RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 players seeking modern compatibility and enhanced features, as well as developers interested in game reverse-engineering and open-source game projects.
It provides a legally compliant way to play RCT2 on current operating systems with significant improvements, active development, and a strong modding community, unlike the abandoned original. Its open-source nature allows for deep customization and ensures the game's longevity.
Overview
An open source re-implementation of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 🎢
Use Cases
Best For
- Playing RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 on modern Windows, macOS, or Linux systems
- Experiencing RCT2 with cooperative multiplayer support
- Using improved tools and increased build limits for park creation
- Exploring open-source game reverse-engineering and development
- Contributing to game localization, graphics, or scenario design
- Enjoying classic RCT scenarios with enhanced AI and bug fixes
Not Ideal For
- Players who do not own a legal copy of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, as OpenRCT2 requires original game files to run
- Gamers seeking a brand-new amusement park simulation with cutting-edge graphics and entirely original gameplay
- Developers looking for a general-purpose game engine to license or modify freely without dependency on legacy code
Pros & Cons
Pros
Runs natively on Windows, macOS, Linux, and BSD, overcoming the limitations of the original 32-bit assembly code and ensuring compatibility with current operating systems.
Includes improved guest and staff AI, more editing tools, increased game limits, and re-introduces mechanics from RollerCoaster Tycoon 1, expanding on the original experience.
Allows multiple players to build and manage parks together in real-time, a feature absent in the original game, fostering community interaction.
Welcomes community contributions for new features, translations, graphics, and scenarios through a structured gitflow workflow, ensuring ongoing evolution and fixes.
Cons
Requires legally purchased RCT2 files to play, adding cost and setup complexity compared to fully open-source standalone games.
Building from source involves multiple platform-specific guides, and contributing new features requires prior approval from the development team, which can slow down community input.
Primary support and discussions are on Discord, which lacks the permanence and searchability of traditional documentation, making it harder for users to find archived help.
Open Source Alternative To
OpenRCT2 is an open-source alternative to the following products:
Frequently Asked Questions
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