Since purchasing the iPhone 5 last week, I have been in an app-downloading frenzy. Conveniently, a brand new coaster game app launched this week entitled “Coaster Crazy.” The 3D game, developed by Frontier Developments Limited (the makers of Roller Coaster Tycoon 3), is about the closest I think the app world has ever come to reputable roller coaster designer. Think No Limits “lite” (and by lite, I mean very lite). But that’s not to say that hard-core coaster enthusiasts won’t enjoy the game.
A press release from Frontier describes Coaster Crazy as an “amazing, new touchscreen 3D coaster building tech lets you build and ride and coaster you can draw with your finger.”
The press release continues: “You intuitively bend, twist and thread the coaster through itself and the scenery. It’s easy to build, ride and crash any type of coaster you can think of – tall, short, long, fast, wooden, modern, crazy or classic re-creations.”
While at first glance, Coaster Crazy may seem rather childish and not advanced in regards to its capabilities. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the elements and coaster “add-ons” (i.e. launch track).
Coaster Crazy is first and foremost a game, however. The game does not appear to have a sandbox mode. Update: Simon from Frontier has informed us that the moon level acts as a sandbox mode. Once you unlock that locale, you’ll be able to build your dream coaster without limits. Otherwise, your creations are somewhat controlled by the goals set in each “locale,” the first being Australia. As you progress and earn more “cash,” you are able to purchase more locales. You must earn cash to unlock those locales and new coaster elements.
The “peeps” or coaster riders in Coaster Crazy are very cartoon-like in their appearance, but their facial expressions are very telling. You’ll know whether they enjoyed your coaster creation.
They’re also indestructible, so don’t worry about sending them out on an outlandish coaster creation.
The design editor allows for a large amount of customizing when designing a coaster. Height, banking and length can all be adjusted with the swipe of a finger.
The game is relatively easy to figure out, but there is a slight learning curve (especially if you’re accustomed to mouse-based design games). I recommend taking full advantage of the tutorial offered when you first open the app.
Also, the game will run phone’s battery down quicker than most apps. Keep a charger nearby.
Other features of the Coaster Crazy app include:
- Build a coaster empire in iconic locations around the world
- Share your coasters with friends and others online, download and ride others’ coasters
- See how your creations stack up on the leaderboards and rate others’ coasters
- Take part in daily coaster building challenges
Overall, the is a great app for users of all ages. The 3D graphics are great. It’s a long overdue app for the iPhone, and I’m certain that Frontier will continue to update the app in the future.
The app works on both the iPhone and iPad. You can download it for free (as of this posting) through iTunes here.
Have you played Coaster Crazy yet? Share your thoughts on the game in the comments section below.
There is a way to ride them…keep pressing the button with a loop on the bottom.
Thanks, Christian! We’ve corrected the review.
There is a sandbox mode! You need to open the Moon level where you can build all your unlocked coasters for free!
Thanks for letting us know, Simon. We have updated the review…can’t wait to unlock the moon!