The first screenshots of RollerCoaster Tycoon World, the upcoming, "full premium" entry in the amusement park simulator series, have been released along with a few details on the game's multiplayer mode.

World's screenshots, which you can see above and below, come courtesy of PC Gamer, which got to see the game at PAX over the weekend. The game has a decidedly cartoony look to it, with full, 3D graphics (similar to RollerCoaster Tycoon 3's) as opposed to the pixelated style of the classic games.

Click for full-size view.

When World was announced, Atari noted that the game would offer multiplayer--a controversial point, especially in light of complaints about the most recent SimCity and its always-online requirement. World's multiplayer allows up to four players to create an amusement park together, with each one controlling a different section of the park. This mode is, importantly, completely optional. There's also no way for one player to have much effect on the others beyond dragging down a rating for the whole park.

A new system has been put in place for designing roller coasters that doesn't involve laying them out piece-by-piece. Once you've designed a roller coaster, you'll then be able to ride it (or any other attractions in your park) in first- or third-person. Asked if virtual reality support might be offered, the developers told PC Gamer, "We are exploring all available options for the game."

The developers also talked about trying to recapture the feel of the older games in the series. World's announcement attempted to make it clear this latest game is a "full premium PC experience," which was an important distinction to make after the most recent game, RollerCoaster Tycoon 4, turned out to be a microtransaction-heavy mobile game. Atari made sure to note it's "giving fans the ability to enjoy a microtransaction-free amusement park."

What do you make of these screenshots and first details? Are they what you were hoping for, or will you be sticking with an older game in the series for your amusement park simulation needs? Let us know in the comments.