RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D announced for Nintendo 3DS, adding a new dimension to popular theme park video game series

in Entertainment, Theme Parks, Video Games

Twelve years after the first RollerCoaster Tycoon video game launched, Atari has announced the series will return in 2012 with RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D for the Nintendo 3DS portable video game system. The theme park simulator has sold 11 million units across its many versions and will now add extra depth to gameplay using Nintendo’s glasses-free 3D screen.

For years, theme park fans have been designing their own theme parks as well as recreating real-life parks using RollerCoaster Tycoon’s unique set of tools, building rides and stores, and managing crowds of guests as they flow through the virtual space. The 3DS game will be the first-ever handheld release of the game.

Video: Teaser trailer for RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D

By tapping and dragging on the Nintendo 3DS touchscreen, gamers will be able to more easily create rides using the “Coaster Creator” option. A new “Coaster Story” gameplay mode pulls together tutorials and park challenges into a narrative complete with unlockable content including unique attractions, themes, amenities and more.

“Park Sandbox” mode allows players to enjoy RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D in the classic way, releasing full creative control over the park’s layout and themed content. Whether it’s attempting to recreate iconic theme parks like Disneyland or designing an original, RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D will offer the tools necessary to be somewhat of a virtual Imagineer.

Gamers will work with a variety of characters, sporting fun roller coaster-themed apparel:

The Nintendo 3DS networking capabilities will enable easy sharing of park creations online.

RollerCoaster Tycoon 3D will be available in 2012. For more information, visit atari.com or on Facebook.

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