USA: Busch Gardens Williamsburg to Open New VR Attraction in 2018

Busch Gardens Williamsburg, a Virginia-based leisure park operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, is also looking to enthuse its guests with virtual reality (VR) experiences in the future. Scheduled for spring 2018, the park recently announced the opening of a brand-new VR attraction. The still nameless experience which will combine a state-of-the-art simulation system with VR technology will replace the “Europe in the Air” simulation ride in the park’s Irish theme area. Its storyline will take guests on a journey through the magical “Irish Otherworld”, in which riders will encounter fabulous natures such as dragons and fairies. “We’re going to take you to places that you never thought possible,” said Busch Gardens Vice President of Engineering, Larry Giles. “Nowhere else has this ever been done,” he added.

Orlando-based Falcon’s Creative Group has been contracted to develop the immersive ride and its design. The company works together with CAVU Designwerks, provider of innovative ride systems and VR hardware technologies, to deliver the virtual reality system and with British Electrosonic to supply the AV elements and the attraction’s programming systems.

The official opening of the “InvadR” wooden coaster (from GCI), which is currently under construction at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, is scheduled for April 7^th, 2017. (eap)