The original two Rollercoaster Tycoons might be the pinnacle of “indie” games - basically designed by one guy with a computer. What’s even more impressive about Chris Sawyer’s design is how layered and complex it is behind the scenes, but how simply it presents the player with the stats that they need to know. The sheer amount of variables playing into the ratings of the rides is deeply impressive, and by hiding those calculations the game is able to present itself as a true simulation of real-life physics and what people enjoy.

The original is still my favorite thanks to its progression system - having to play scenarios to unlock more scenarios would have greatly helped Rollercoaster Tycoon 2, which gives too many options straight away.