Atari Launches Crowdfunding Campaign for Roller Coaster Tycoon Switch Title

Triple-A developers invading crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter has become something of a problem. While things have slowed down a bit in recent months, it’s hard to forget the time Sony tried to use Kickstarter to raise money for Shenmue 3, a game they should have made years ago and frankly don’t need the money for. Or when Mighty No. 9 studio Comcept decided it would be smart to try to raise funds for yet ANOTHER game after their first was delayed twice and still unreleased. You know, typical industry shenanigans.

Atlas looks to be the next offender, as it’s decided that it’s going to take a stab at the whole “Crowdfunding” thing, specifically asking for donations to bring a new Roller Coaster Tycoon game to the Nintendo Switch. That said, if you’re expecting this to be a naked attempt to exploit fans to raise easy money, you might be surprised to learn this is more of a business opportunity than anything.

See, rather than getting some backer rewards like some in-game items or some bonus levels, Atari is promising anyone who invests a portion of revenue shares, as well as backer updates that include future information about Atari’s next projects. That means that it won’t be worth anyone’s time for someone to throw five or ten bucks at the project: so instead you’ll need to donate a minimum of $250 if you want to contribute to the project. A hefty sum, to be sure, but it’s possible you could make that money back and then some if the game is successful.

Atari’s ultimate goal is 1.07 million dollars, but for as little as $10,000 they’ll move forward with the project, meaning that they only need a handful of donations before the game is all but guaranteed. It seems unlikely any common gamer will throw their money behind this one, given the high bar of entry, but if you feel this is worth your time then you have 90 days before the campaign closes.