Introducing the Elevator MediaCoaster
US ride manufacturer S&S-Sansei has partnered with British media-based attractions specialist Holovis to produce a new concept called the Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster.
Offering a scalable range of options to potential clients, the two companies hope to extend the rollercoaster from a short thrill ride and into a fully-immersive, more memorable experience driven by storytelling.
The attraction begins with an interactive pre-show before guests board what is seemingly a traditional dark ride. The experience continues with the ride vehicle entering a 360° dome and media completely surrounding the passengers. By employing this technique, Holovis has negated the need for cumbersome VR headsets or 3D glasses yet created the same level of intense immersion, only to be enjoyed as a group experience.
“Rollercoasters have long been the traditional form of physical and thrilling entertainment [in a park],” observes Holovis CEO Stuart Hethetington, “but typically the patterns of excitement peak at the highest point, which is usually towards the beginning, then drop as there is no connected narrative to continue the thrill. By adding an emotive story and journey into the attraction design and ensuring a shared immersive experience, we are creating a new genre in coasters.”
“Wrapping of coaster sections with physical screens and lighting effects has been done for a long time, but the patented, storytelling capability now offered by us and Holovis allows the immersive experience to physically move with a moving vehicle,” explains notes S&S-Sansei Technologies president and CEO Tim Timco. “We’re combining the thrill of death-defying drop tower and extreme coaster technology with truly immersive media. We believe the dynamic, immersive experience of this new attraction will have a tremendous impact on the industry.”
The first customer for the Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster is expected to be signed soon. The inaugural version of the ride will feature a full coaster circuit with an elevator style drop, and extensive use of media which will extend the length of guest experience. More at holovis.com/#news
