The RollerCoaster Tycoon series is making a comeback. Atari and indie studio Springloaded have announced RollerCoaster Tycoon Wonderworks, a new mainline entry in the beloved theme park management franchise, revealed during Gamescom 2026’s Opening Night Live. The game enters PC Early Access this winter at $24.99.
A Return to Form
Designed by Chris Sawyer, the original 1999 RollerCoaster Tycoon was a quintessential PC game for an entire generation. It let players design theme parks, build roller coasters, and manage every aspect of the business. The series has had several installments since, but the last core game was 2016’s poorly received RollerCoaster World. Wonderworks is a clean break — a decade-later reboot from a studio that understands the assignment.
Springloaded, the team behind Let’s Build a Zoo, is bringing its signature humor to the franchise. The announcement trailer shows rides breaking down in spectacular fashion and park guests getting launched off the map in comedic chaos. It’s the kind of emergent mayhem that made the original games memorable.
What’s New in Wonderworks
- Isometric perspective — Classic RCT view, but with a more toylike, modern art style
- Intuitive coaster design — A redesigned roller coaster builder with an “accurate” physics engine
- Expanded customization — Deeper park and ride customization options than previous entries
- Streamlined management — More approachable financial and operations tools
- Emergent chaos — Springloaded’s humor means rides break down in spectacular fashion
Atari notes that Wonderworks is designed to be both deep and approachable, with expanded customization options and more streamlined management tools. The Steam page is already live, and the Early Access roadmap includes new parks, rides, and features — including water elements.
Why Early Access Matters Here
Atari’s press release emphasizes community involvement: “RollerCoaster Tycoon is a franchise with an extremely dedicated, passionate fanbase. Early Access offers an opportunity for us to involve this community directly in our development process.”
The studio says it has a dedicated roadmap but is “leaving space to hear from you and incorporate feedback and suggestions from the community directly into the game.” For a franchise that built its legacy on PC modding and community engagement, that approach feels right.
What Should You Do?
- Wishlist RollerCoaster Tycoon Wonderworks on Steam
- Watch the announcement trailer on YouTube for a taste of the chaos
- Expect Early Access launch this winter at $24.99