Coaster Remake: Thorpe Park Launches “The Walking Dead: The Ride“

It’s still possible even without the use of Virtual Reality to upgrade an existing rollercoaster with a new overall experience. England’s Thorpe Park has recently launched its latest attraction “The Walking Dead: The Ride”, which is a remake of the former Vekoma coaster “X”, which went into operation 1996. Under its new name, the rollercoaster now offers an all-new experience for guests. The queueing area of the coaster has been redesigned and extended by a pre-show area immersing riders into a thrilling world full of zombies, based on AMC’s television series “The Walking Dead”.

During the renovation phase, the team of Merlin Magic Making has worked in partnership with the AV and media specialists from Holovis: The company has delivered all audio, lighting and special effects as well as the media footage presented on a 4K screen in the pre-show area. Furthermore, Holovis has installed the on-board effects in order to create a fully immersive experience also during the actual ride. In partnership with British Scruffy Dog design company, Merlin’s magic makers created the storyline, theme book and visual content for the coaster remake. Scruffy Dog was also commissioned to manufacture the theming elements. The ride is accessible for guests aged 13 years or older. (eap)