Sandbox Mode

Sandbox mode is a game mode, made first available in RollerCoaster Tycoon 3, whereby the player is given a large empty plot of land and unlimited funds with all rides and scenery unlocked. This differs from the Career mode (and the scenarios of RollerCoaster Tycoon and RollerCoaster Tycoon 2) as there are no objectives the player is required to complete. Instead, the focus is on player creativity as there are no restrictions and no “win” condition; the player can do whatever they see fit. Rather than working to complete a particular set of goals, the player can create whatever park they want.

Sandbox Mode is also a popular choice for creating Park recreations due to the “blank canvas” you begin with allowing for the most customisation. It is also an ideal setting to create custom roller coaster tracks.

Mega Park from RollerCoaster Tycoon and the “Build your own” scenarios from RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 can be considered precursors to the Sandbox mode, as the idea is similar; build the park however you see fit. However, they are not true sandbox modes as they are still restricted by money and/or objectives as well as limited access to rides and scenery.