Silver Dollar City 2013

I have been following the construction of this wooden coaster in Silver Dollar City for a while... let me first tell you guys an interesting story.

It's of a new company on the scene... Rocky Mountain Construction, or RMC. This company is known for totally transforming Texas Giant in Six Flags Over Texas, with new steel railings, or topper track. Next year, they will transform Rattler in Six Flags Fiesta Texas and are building their first-ever wooden coaster from scratch... and this one has quite a bit of stuff worth looking into... and apparently there was a leak on this ride just yesterday. Oh, and rumors point to the name being "Outlaw."

For starters, the first drop looks incredibly mind-blowing (this is coming from MidwestInfoGuide's 6/27/2012 update):

Word has it, the first drop is 81 degrees. If what I rode at SFGAdv (El Toro with its 76 degree drop, different manufacturer but still) is ANY indication of how the ride's first drop will be... um... why on earth does this have to be more than 1000 miles from where I live (you know, Miami, all that stuff...)?

Apparently the speed on this thing is 68 mph, which puts it under El Toro as the second fastest wooden coaster on Earth (El Toro is at 70 mph). Voyage at Holiday World will come into third at 67 mph. Oh, what's this... El Toro's now the fastest woodie on Earth? Yes, the old record breaker (Son of Beast at 78 mph) is no more... Son of Beast was confirmed to be removed a few days ago... I'll get into that later.

Ha, funny about Son of Beast... that ride experience also had a record-breaking vertical loop... Outlaw, however, is rumored to have a double barrel roll, making this the first wooden coaster to have a "roll" inversion. The double barrel roll came from the leak, but another element of uniqueness caught my attention (first pic from Screamscape today. Second pic from chadster on Facebook (found this on ThemeParkReview) way back on July 8th):

Initially I thought this was going to be a zero-g-roll... but it looks more like an insane Stengel dive (which is also a world's first on a woodie)... that one element is really insane-looking! I'm really in love with Stengel dives, especially the ones on Maverick and Skyrush.

All this will be done on stagecoach-themed cars, with lap bars! And we don't have to wait too much longer either... the announcement will come on August 9th, just 9 days from now!

You can find more pics on Screamscape, ThemeParkReview, and MidwestInfoGuide.

Disaster Transport is Dead and More 2013 Rumors

Two days ago, Disaster Transport at Cedar Point gave its last rider. As of yesterday the attraction is no more (and good riddance to that). Demolition is expected to begin Thursday (apparently).

More rumors are spreading on the theme of the coaster (possibly a mythological beast theme) and the name either Lotan or Gate Keeper:

2013 - Wing Coaster - Semi-Confirmed - (7/27/12) While the dragon / serpent / monster themes keep building up steam, we got another email this week backing up the Gate Keeper name once again. I suppose they could work together… but somehow I think the park will sell more T-Shirts and merchase with a beast themed logo like Behemoth, Leviathan or Hydra than they will with Gate Keeper.  (Unless they sell a shirt for your significant other to wear that says Key Master…)
    (7/26/12) Some interesting digging about another possible name for the 2013 Cedar Point coaster has come from CoasterFusion this week. They believe it could be named Lotan, named after a mythical 7-headed sea serpent / dragon beast that is the representation of floods, oceans and winter. 
    (7/25/12) The latest buzz from The Point seems to indicate that Sandusky could become home to a cousin of Canada’s Leviathan. I can only hope that this dragon will also demand his own cave lair and other fun environmental stuff to fly through. The dragon rumor has also been confirmed by our friends at CoasterFusion as well as some comments on the possible color of the coaster track being green… but with the sighting of the blue wing image on DT being so similar to the colors used on Leviathan, I’m hoping for another blue / cyan combo paint job myself.

I actually like the name "Gate Keeper." It makes sense (since, it's going through the park entrance), but also I think the name just sounds so cool! When I think of "Gate Keeper," I think of a Gothic-type of beast/dragon that guards the entrance to a castle or something else. "Lotan" is a great name too! I also wouldn't mind if they reused the Leviathan name (though I'd prefer Gate Keeper or Lotan).

That said, if it's called "Lotan," will this Wing Coaster possibly have 7 inversions? After all, the mythical Lotan has 7 heads. Could this be the equivalent of the number of inversions this ride might possibly have?

We shall see... I think this next month should be pretty interesting to say the least!

KD's Next Coaster: When, where, and what?

We're in the middle of 2012, and Kings Dominion, while they are not overdue just yet, will soon be due for a new coaster. 2013 is rumored to be a Planet Snoopy expansion, while Volcano's station may get a redo, so it looks like no coaster next year (which is fine for now). However in 2014, it will be 4 years since Intimidator 305 opened (dang, that moved fast!). So this leaves the question: will KD open their next coaster in 2014 or possibly even a year later? It certainly seems possible for a 2014 coaster to be built, but probably no later than 2015.

Where will it go? Apparently reports have Shockwave being removed by the end of the season (from this morning):

Park News - (7/17/12) According to a post at CoasterCrewNetwork , the time may have come to remove Shockwave . To be honest, I’m surprised this Togo Stand-Up coaster has lasted this long as it’s sister ride (King Cobra) at Kings Island was removed years ago. If true, the only remaining Togo Stand-Up coaster in North America would be the SkyRider at Canada’s Wonderland which will likely find itself on the chopping block before too long as well.

The Dippin Dots guy told me today that Shockwave is on its way out the door. Now this is not throw some of my normal channles so I don't know if its true or not.

Later in the day, however, reports show Shockwave staying. Actually, IMO, removing Shockwave (despite the lack of lines) is a stupid idea, especially if they were putting up a new coaster (and I actually enjoy this ride. Unlike other stand-ups, this has awesome airtime. It also has great forces. If you ask me, take out Anaconda). Last season, the park repainted the ride (green and blue) and removing it so soon would mean all that money for the repaint would go to waste. Also, this ride doesn't take up the biggest space in the park... maybe an Intamin Impulse or something like Superman: Ultimate Flight (in SFDK) can fit good (though that can still be cool)... but I think the maximum that can fit in the area is probably a GCI Wooden Coaster (involving the end of Flying Ace and Snoopy's Splash Dance). Then again, SFGAm surprised me by plopping a Wing Coaster (X-Flight) in the old Splashwater Falls plot, so maybe this can happen here to. Still, I'd rather see Anaconda bite the dust, way before Shockwave.

However, let's evaluate the sections of the park. Congo has the most coasters in the park (Intimidator 305, Flight of Fear, Volcano, Backlot Stunt Coaster, and Anaconda) so no need for a coaster in that section (if they take out Anaconda, though, that will open up a large plot. Maybe a Wing or Flying Coaster that interacts with the lake). Maybe Old Virginia, possibly squeezing a coaster by White Water Canyon, and having it sneakily travel behind Dinosaurs ALIVE, Grizzly, and Hurler, and go back through the old Hypersonic lot. Or the Grove, where they can plot one taking over the rest of the old Hypersonic lot and the plot behind Hurler (of course, keeping the trees).

Another possibility is relocating the part of the water park before Rebel Yell with the rest of the water park (possibly an entrance by Hurler and Ricochet). That would open up a decent plot of land, and an even bigger plot would open if Anaconda gets torn out. However, I'd rather they not knock down Anaconda for a coaster there, as much as I dislike Anaconda. I'd want to see something else take Anaconda's space, possibly interacting with the lake.

What will it be? My gut tells me they want a "big" coaster again, so it can be a few possibilities. An Intamin Blitz can do wonders. I think a B&M would be perfect though, as there is only one (Dominator). A Wing Coaster would be an awesome addition, a Flying Coaster (though I think they should save one for Anaconda's replacement), or even a Hypercoaster (traveling from White Water Canyon to the back of Grizzly and Hurler). The difference with Canada's Wonderland installing Leviathan while they have Behemoth is that one has mostly airtime (Behemoth, just airtime hills) and the other has mostly speed (Leviathan, speed curves). I305 has mostly speed (mostly speed curves with airtime hills) and this hyper can have mostly airtime (just airtime hills). Though I think a Wing Coaster has a huge possibility (let's see how Cedar Point's 2013 Wing Coaster will go)!

I'm sure wherever the next coaster will go, the park will make as much necessary space as possible. Look at what Six Flags Great America did! They squeezed in a Wing Coaster in a plot that was home to a small shoot-the-chutes ride, and it still looks to pack a punch!

For now, we shall wait and see what happens next year... But 2014 should be an interesting year!

Cedar Point 2013 To Bring A New Coaster

I shall revive my blog with a news update.


Disaster Transport and Space Spiral at Cedar Point have both been confirmed for removal (on July 13th) with DT closing by July 29th, and Space Spiral possibly closing around Labor Day:

Disaster Transport Final Dispatch: A Mission for the Kids
Sunday, July 29, 2012 at 9:00 PM
Cedar Point
Sandusky, Ohio


Disaster Transport Final Dispatch: A Mission for the Kids

Cedar Point and Give Kids The World are
partnering for another exciting event!

At Disaster Transport Final Dispatch: A Mission for the Kids, guests can become a part of history while helping children with life-threatening illnesses and their families make memories that last a lifetime.

Participation includes complimentary all-day park admission for non-season passholders, an hour of exclusive ride time on Disaster Transport, VIP access to a private reception, a commemorative event t-shirt, a special souvenir and eligibility for the the last ride with the lights on. The top three fundraisers will also receive prizes!

Here's what we have planned for Sunday, July 29:

9 p.m. Welcome Reception-- Enjoy light refreshments, music and a special presentation at the patio outside Disaster Transport.

10:30 - 11:30 p.m. Exclusive Ride Time-- Disaster Transport is officially closed to the public and open to all participants for ERT.

11:40 p.m. Final Lap-- Last ride with the lights on! The 50 participants who have raised the most money are guaranteed a spot. The first place fundraiser will have the privilege of choosing their seat first, followed by the second place fundraiser and so on until all seats are taken.

In addition to the $20 registration fee, a minimum of $50 must be raised in order to participate. Top fundraisers will be determined Friday, July 27 at Noon EST.

Online registration will close Friday, July 27 at Noon EST. Onsite. day-of registration will be available for $75 and includes all-day park admission for non-season passholders, an hour of exclusive ride time on Disaster Transport, VIP access to a private reception, a commemorative event t-shirt and a special souvenir. Onsite registrants are not eligible for the Final Lap.

Thank you for your support!

 https://www.firstgiving.com/gktw/finaldispatch


From the park's Facebook page:

Something big is happening. Disaster Transport & Space Spiral will be dismantled this season to make space for @!!$!(*%%. We're sad to see them go, but are excited as we fly into the future. Stay tuned for more!

 "Watch out for inversions and (!%!@@!#%(!@!!^ You didn't think we would give away 2013 THAT easy did you?"

Already teasing? Lemme guess, @!!$!(*%% = 2-1-14-19-8-5-5 = B-A-N-S-H-E-E. IDK, it just looks like that. I have no idea about the other one, but some say that means FALSE CLUES in inverted text.


Originally Mantis (B&M Stand-Up) was going to be called "Banshee," but apparently the word "banshee" had some negative connotations. So they changed the ride's name to "Mantis" (as it is today), and most of the original "Banshee" souvenirs were recalled, and burned (though there are still some around). I can't really imagine them naming this coaster "Banshee" after that scenario.


If what I heard last summer is true, Disaster Transport and Space Spiral's replacement WILL be a new B&M coaster. Funny, just a couple of weeks ago I was at Cedar Point, and imagined them imploding Space Spiral (almost like Freefall at SFOT back in 2008) and the tower falling on Disaster Transport's structure, destroying both attractions. I also saw quite a bit of markings around the Space Spiral/Disaster Transport area (especially in the dead end by DT's exit).


Just recently (May 30), the news leaked out about DT/SS getting removed for a new coaster that will stretch to the front of the park:

Cedar Fair stands ready to spend big money on a new roller coaster for 2013 at Cedar Point that will change the park landscape.

Code-named “CP Alt.Winged,” the coaster will have the “longest drop, run the fastest and be the longest ride” of its kind, Cedar Fair CEO Matt Ouimet wrote in Feb. 15 memo to Cedar Fair’s board of directors.

The total projected cost of the project is $25 million, a price that includes removing the park’s Space Spiral and Disaster Transport rides and restructuring the park entrance. 

Ouimet was unavailable for comment Tuesday.

To see photos of the Space Spiral and Disaster Transport, click HERE.

Lee Alexakos, corporate vice president of marketing, declined to confirm the information in the memo.

“We have not announced any plans for 2013 but we did announce a $25 million investment,” Alexakos said. “This will be one of the largest capital expenditures ever.”

Alexakos said that with any ride or attraction Cedar Point undertakes, the company is always looking to set records.

The Swiss-based Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers is set to design the new ride, which was described in the memo as having a “Front Gate Statement— a roller coaster that flies overhead, rolls and flies back— highly visible above guests entering the park.”

The firm designed Cedar Point’s Raptor.

A winged coaster is designed to suspend riders on wings to the sides of the rails so there is no track above or below the guest.

Engineering schematics show a proposed coaster with gravity defying twists, curves and rolls.

“Rob Decker (Cedar Fair VP of planning and design) and others have done a great job of creating a compelling, economically attractive new coaster for Cedar Point,” Ouimet wrote. “We believe this particular ride design with this particular manufacturer balances the desire for marketable innovation and risk associated with early adaptations of prototypes.”

Bolliger & Mabillard designed the first winged coaster for installation in Italy at a park known as Gardaland. The Six Flags Great American park outside of Chicago also has one of the company’s winged coasters, called X-Flight. 

The new ride at Cedar Point could promise to be a work horse available to guests at almost any time they are in the park.

“Rob talked to operators of the first one in Italy and found no unanticipated negatives and very high ride reliability (less than 1 percent operational downtime).

Design plans show the new ride with a 170-foot tall lift that will fly overhead of park guests entering the park. It will have the longest track and longest ride time of any coaster of its style as it flies overhead, rolls and then fly back.

The huge roller coaster will dominate the front gate and the track will travel over a large parking area at the park.

“We have several coasters that cover parking lots,” Ouimet wrote. “Not necessarily ideal, but certainly acceptable given tight site constraints and the amount of land such attractions require.”

Disaster Transport and the Space Spiral both would have to come down if the site plan currently under consideration is chosen.

Part of the $25 million investment will also include renovations and upgrades at the park entrance from the parking lot.

Cedar Point general manger John Hildebrandt was not available for comment on Tuesday.

http://www.sanduskyregister.com/sandusky/news/cedar-fair/memo-cedar-point-build-coaster-2013

The rumor mill is throwing roller coaster enthusiasts for a loop today.

And this particular loop is a doozy: Cedar Point is planning to remove Disaster Transport and Space Spiral to make room for a wing coaster that extends to the front of the park and above the main entrance, according to a Feb. 15 memo from new Cedar Fair CEO Matt Ouimet to the board of directors.

A wing coaster, as shown in the artist rendering above, is one on which pairs of riders sit on either side of the track, with nothing above or below them except air.

The only coasters at Cedar Point that I haven’t ridden this year are Mean Streak, because it’s kind of hard on my aging back, and Disaster Transport, because, well, it kind of sucks.

Someone at Cedar Point with much more influence than I have might think the same thing.

At the Erie County Chamber of Commerce Breakfast of Champions on April 24, Ouimet mentioned publicly that the company wasn’t thrilled with Disaster Transport, which gives more credence to this development.

“We believe strongly in the future of Cedar Point,” Ouimet said at the breakfast. “Our board of directors, at John’s (Hildebrandt) encouragement, have committed more than $25 million to Cedar Point for next season. I will leave it at that, for all to speculate what that is.”

And speculate the enthusiasts have done.

I've suspected for a while that Cedar Point's 2013 attraction would be a coaster. The loss of one roller coaster, WildCat, and Ouimet divulging the $25 million investment number all but clinched it. It was just a matter of waiting to see what type of coaster it would be.

Obviously, it would be something relatively different than what the park already has, and a flying coaster, Firehawk, being only 200 miles away at Cedar Fair-owned Kings Island seemed to preclude Cedar Point from doing a flyer, with other options available. So I assumed it would be a dive coaster.

I've never ridden a true wing coaster, but I have been on Griffon, a dive coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Riding on the outside of its 10-seat-wide train gives an experience somewhat similar to a wing coaster, because you hang over air, not the track. Needless to say, it's an interesting experience.

Also fueling the speculation is a development at another Cedar Fair property, Canada’s Wonderland. That park’s new coaster for 2012, Leviathan, features elements that are located in and above the guest parking lot and around the main entrance of the park, just like Cedar Point’s new coaster is expected to do.

In addition, you know Cedar Point wants to be able to at least argue its case as being the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World."

The first-ever entry to this blog was about the park’s last-minute removal of WildCat and the fact I thought it was a good long-term move. At the same time, losing one coaster also lost the park the claim of having the most roller coasters in the world, a title held by Six Flags Magic Mountain.

If this new development comes to fruition, Cedar Point still won’t be able to lay claim to the title of most coasters. (Gain one, lose one, leaving 16.) Six Flags Magic Mountain also has announced it will open an 18th coaster in 2013.

But I, for one, will take quality over quantity, substance over marketing, any day.

If Cedar Point adds a coaster type it doesn’t already have, I’ll still easily consider the park the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World." And with its high-quality and versatile lineup, it would be difficult to argue against it.

There are only four wing coasters in operation in the world: Raptor at Gardaland in Italy, The Swarm at Thorpe Park in the United Kingdom, Wild Eagle at Dollywood in Tennessee and X-Flight at Six Flags Great America in Illinois. The first in the world, Raptor, opened only a year ago.

Incidentally, the cost of the two wing coasters at U.S. parks are reported to be $20 million for Wild Eagle and $15 million for X-Flight, which seems to be in line with the $25 million Ouimet mentioned. (Assuming, as usual, Cedar Point wants the tallest, fastest and longest coaster of its type in the world, which would increase the ride's cost, in addition to the cost of removing the two rides.)

All four wing coasters in existence are manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, which designed and built Cedar Point’s Raptor and Mantis, as well as Diamondback at Kings Island. While I know a lot of people bemoan Mantis, I’m glad to see another B&M coaster coming, especially considering what seems to be excessive downtime on the Intamin coasters. (Millennium Force is still my favorite.)

And now would be a good time to mention the buzz that started a while ago when a photo surfaced of green wing-coaster track at a B&M fabricating plant in southwestern Ohio. (It could be for any number of other parks.) It's also a good time to mention it's been five long years and one major recession since a new coaster rolled its way to Cedar Point.

Some people wanted to see a 500-foot coaster, but I just don't see the point with Top Thrill Dragster already standing at 420 feet. Go skydiving if you want a towering drop from the sky, because that'd basically be all you'd get from such a coaster.

A new type of coaster will be good for the park in terms of its ability to draw guests, and sacrificing a couple of aging and underperforming rides for something fresh while adding some impact to that area of the park will be a good thing. (I spend a huge percentage of time in the back half of the park, roaming toward the front usually only when I want to ride Raptor or Wicked Twister or when I'm heading to my car.)

The elimination of Disaster Transport’s building also will allow for more and better views of the lake, which is an asset most parks simply don’t have.

Whatever the coaster ends up being and wherever it ends up going, it’s going to leave bigger footprints than the T. rex or Ruyangosaurus giganteus from Dinosaurs Alive! ever could.

http://www.sanduskyregister.com/sandusky/belaboring-point/cedar-point/blog-cedar-points-wing-coaster-answers-enthusiasts-prayer

There even seems to be a planned layout in the last link:

This looks like a combination of Swarm (dive possibly) and Wild Eagle (out-and-back layout). However one thing comes to question... it looks like after exiting the Disaster Transport area, there is a unique-looking element. Some say it could be the "Norwegian Lift" (well, what I would call it, LOL). Essentially, the train crests the lift, and goes through a twist n' dive, followed by an immelmann. This should be very interesting... I wonder what's for dinner at Cedar Point (LOL, I had to throw that in!)... and it also should be cool to see the dive loop... er immelmann... er whatever that is at the end (between the main entrance and Blue Streak) by Blue Streak's turnaround.

As for DT packing it's bags, goodbye, good riddance, so long, and farewell! Never been a fan of it... Space Spiral, however, IDK. It doesn't look to be part of the layout... =/

It should be exciting to see how all this folds out...

EDIT:

Just saying (this is from MudchopX at YouTube)...

SFMM 2013 Construction Update #1

The plot thickens on SFMM's supposed 2013 coaster project (taking over Log Jammer's space). From bostonlva at ThemeParkReview:

Theme Park Review @ThemeParkReview
Six Flags Magic Mountain already working on their "next record breaker!" @SFMagicMountain #WestCoastBash

If this is referring to the 2013 attraction, then it could be a giga perhaps?

This could be something rather big if this is true. I'm already picturing a Skyrush-type Giga from Intamin towering over the Log Jammer plot (with those impressive trains) and hopefully it is full of intense turns, airtime hills, and possibly a tunnel.

Speaking of tunnels, it looks like the monorail track has been removed from the tunnel underneath Laughing Dragon and the path leading towards Superman's entrance (February 18th):

Link 1

Link 2

This has led to some speculation of the tunnel being reused for the supposed coaster. Let's update the overview (new details added, such as Superman's station, Laughing Dragon, and the old metro tunnel):













I will update this image as I get more information. If the plot expands (possibly will), I will get a new overview picture.

The old metro tunnel opens up new possibilities. Could it be reused for the new coaster with possibly an on-ride camera? I think it's possible (very possible). Adding a little more fuel to the fire, it looks like heavy equipment tracks are leading right into the tunnel (meaning that work could be going on inside) according to this update:

http://www.thecoasterguy.com/index.php/2012/02/19/trip-report-for-19-feb-2012/#more-2540

This project is really rising in the interesting meter!

In other news, Thrill Shot has been removed (after sitting a couple of years unused). Lex Luthor has also begun construction recently.

Skyrush Almost Done

The latest update from Keystone Thrills as of February 10 (yesterday) shows that Skyrush, the new Intamin "winged" hypercoaster, is almost done (from Ccron10 at Keystone Thrills):

http://keystonethrills.megabb.com/t365-hersheypark-skyrush-construction-update-86#6028

The lift hill has been topped off on January 30, 2012. At this point, they have cap the first two airtime hills, and add other track pieces, and then it's pretty much done! The station is starting to look nice too!

This is a pretty cool looking hypercoaster, and I like how they're using the space behind Comet (aka the creek up to the former Creekside Catering space). I can't wait to see how the trains look like!

Speaking of trains, they appeared on a Skyrush contest promo:









It looks like the restraints on these trains will be much like Blue Fire's restraints.

Can't wait for completion!

Leviathan Complete

On February 7, 2012, the last piece of Leviathan at Canada's Wonderland, B&M's first Giga Coaster, has been installed. Here's a video of this moment from Canada's Wonderland Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=339784509394799

And kunpc1 at CWMania posted some nice photos too:

http://www.cwmania.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=51608#p51608

Here are some photos from the above link:















































































































































I am just in ultimate AWE of these photos. The station is receiving stone work/theming too. I can't think of the last time Cedar Fair themed a station (I guess Maverick in 2007). That 4th photo is the old Cyber Central arcade, which will become a gift shop for Leviathan.

And overall... this looks menacing. This looks to be the new signature attraction of Canada's Wonderland, and I hope more of these go up in other parks (like Knott's possibly, or even Kings Island). The colors are nice looking too!

Now, hopefully testing starts at the end of February, or early March!

SFMM and Cedar Point Heading to a 2013 Coaster Duel!

Looks like 2013 will be another monster coaster year, and the two coaster capitals of the world, SFMM and Cedar Point (now that SFMM removed Deja Vu, they're tied with Cedar Point, so yeah TWO), are preparing for the installation of big coasters. I'll first start with the rumor that came first:

Cedar Point 2013:

From Screamscape:

2013 - New Coaster - Rumor - (2/10/12) Still more rumors trickling in about the possible 2013 coaster plans in the works for The Point. Right now the good money bets are still on it being a B&M coaster once again, but this leads to a question about what style? While I think the park could certainly use a good Floorless mega-looper, there is also hope for a mega Floorless Dive Machine concept.
The rumor mill suggests that management (or at least Kinzel’s old management) did not care for the B&M Flyers. The park already has a plentiful supply of launched coaster concepts, so this really leaves only the new Wing Coaster idea as an alternate possibility, but with SFGAm building one in greater market, I have a feeling Cedar Point isn’t ready to jump on that bandwagon yet either.
(12/29/11) Another Screamscape source has confirmed hearing that a new B&M coaster is supposed to be in the works for The Point in 2013. So will it be something standard like a Floorless or a Dive Machine, one of the new Wing coasters or perhaps something we’ve never seen before?
(7/7/11) While it’s still a bit far out to say anything for sure, we’ve heard from a new source that the rumored 2013 coaster project for The Point will see B&M come back to the park at last with a new project. It’s hard to say exactly what it may be, so I suspect it could be one of the new Wing Coasters, though a Floorless with a ton of inversions or even a Dive Machine would also be a good fit. A location near the front of the park on the Disaster Transport / Space Spiral side was also mentioned.
(7/5/11) If your hoping for a new coaster at Cedar Point in 2012, I’m told you will probably have to wait for 2013. No word on just what it will be, but usually Cedar Point doesn’t disappoint, so it should be good.

Okay, I'm ready to speak out... I'm not sure if I mentioned this in the blog before, but it's time I say it: I was the one who sent the (7/7/11) report to Screamscape.

Last summer when I visited Cedar Point (around June 29th), I was taking snapshots of markings around the rapids area (back when there were 2012 rumors), and then a park security person came. He and I had a chat and he told me that 2012 would not bring in a new coaster, but something else (possibly a water park expansion). That water park expansion was proved true: with the confirmation of Dinosaurs ALIVE, Cedar Point also confirmed the addition of a mat racer slide in Soak City. Also, the markings were for Snoopy (I think).

He then told me that 2013 would bring a new coaster, and he stated that the manufacturer was the one "who made Raptor and Mantis" (I recall him saying that), which means B&M. The design is unknown at this point, so it could be anything (I'm guessing it will be a Wing Coaster, despite Screamscape's doubts). He also said to look for a location in the front of the park, by Disaster Transport/Space Spiral.

I wasn't really sure when to send Screamscape the rumor (whether it be a week, a month, two months, etc), but as my trip up north ended (around the July 5-July 7 time frame) rumors started spreading of Dinosaurs ALIVE for 2012 and the coaster coming 2013, so I decided to send the rumor to Screamscape as I got home. Sure enough, signs are pointing to the rumor being true. Recently (as you can see above from Screamscape) rumors are continuing to spread of a B&M coaster coming in 2013. And what the security person said about 2012 came true too (the mat racer). This makes you wonder the only thing left... when would we start seeing construction in the lot behind Disaster Transport/Space Spiral? Time will tell.

This is also logical: the last coaster Cedar Point installed was Maverick (2007) and the last B&M Cedar Point installed was Mantis (way back in 1996!). The past few coaster installations (Millennium Force, Wicked Twister, TTD, Maverick) have all been Intamins. I think they're overdue for a B&M coaster (though I wouldn't mind another Intamin monster, I think it's time for B&M to come back to the Point).

Six Flags Magic Mountain 2013:

Remember the report of Log Jammer closing. Demolition began recently, and the old Metro Station has been demolished too. And just like the latest CP 2013 rumor, Screamscape also reported a little something this morning for SFMM:

2013 - New Coaster - (2/10/12) It’s still a bit too early to lock in anything for the SFMM 2013 project just yet, but with demolition fully under way, what we have heard so far is what it wont be. Screamscape sources confirm that this is not expected to be a B&M coaster of any kind, so throw out all those long rumored Dive Machine rumors that have been brewing forever. (Which is just disappointing, the terrain of the Log Jammer site would have made for a great themed Dive Machine...)
(2/7/12) Demolition work has begun at Six Flags Magic Mountain on the old Log Jammer ride area. The station building itself is fairly removed, though from the midway it may look more intact than it is due to the façade out front still standing. The splashdown lagoon is being torn up and they’ve even begun work to demolish the old Metro monorail station across the midway from the Log Jammer as well, along with a few sections of the Metro’s nearby beamways.
(1/27/12) The first 2012 edition of the SFMM GoBigCam video blog ends with what some are thinking could possibly be a clue about the park’s 2013 attraction. While the theme of the video is about working out, the hostess ends it by posing in front of a Wonder Woman backdrop and says, “Maybe by 2013 I’ll look like that,” in reference to Wonder Woman. With Six Flags seeming to have a renewed focus on ride’s themed after the DC Comics characters, could it be time for a Wonder Woman themed coaster all these years?
Now in all seriousness, this “clue” is probably way way WAY off track here. After all, the new 2013 coaster is supposed to take over the Log Jammer spot, which is located no where near the DC Universe section of the park. So I really don’t put any stock into this idea at all. I’ve got a feeling we could be seeing something with a more unique theme coming in 2013.
(11/3/11) Sue Carpenter, spokeswoman for Six Flags Magic Mountain confirmed to the local news that the Log Jammer is now closed, to be removed to make way for a future park expansion project which will be announced sometime in 2012. So at least we know where to keep our eyes focused for the park’s 2013 ride plans… lets just hope they try to work in some of the natural landscaping and water features leftover from the Log Jammer into the new ride.
(11/2/11) With the demise of the Log Jammer happening any day now, you can take one last look at the ride as it stands today over at Theme Park Review, as well as catch some pictures of Déjà Vu coming down.
(10/28/11) Sad news today regarding the fate of the Log Jammer at SFMM. I’ve been told that a sign in a ‘break room’ at SFMM indicated that the Log Jammer only had a few days left to run. The basic gist of seems to be that the Log Jammer will be no more following Halloween.
(10/19/11) Its been a few weeks, and I’m sorry to say that the rumors about the possible removal of Log Jammer from SFMM have not let up. As wrong as it seems to remove a classic “log ride” from any park… I’m starting to get worried the rumor could be true. If so… get your last rides in while you still can, or regret it forever.
(9/19/11) To be honest, this is the first I’ve heard of the following rumor… and I have yet to get the story fully double-checked with any other sources at this point, so I have to remain skeptical about it still. That said, a report has come in claiming that Magic Mountain may be considering the possible removal of the popular Log Jammer flume ride. I really hope not, as it get hot beyond belief in the summer at The Mountain, and that park really needs more water rides, not less. Even today, I think the Log Jammer probably has the most consistently long line of all the park’s water rides. If anyone has anything else to share about this, please do let me know.

So we can rule out a Dive Machine (or any other B&M) for this creation (though it would have been nice). IMO, this tells me that this coaster will be what TheCoasterGuy reported a while back (when Log Jammer was confirmed to get the axe):

Brand new gigacoaster to be built were Log Jammer sits today @SFMagicMountain. Will debut for 2013 season.

With B&M out, it looks like this masterpiece will be sent by the Intamin gods, in the form of a Giga Coaster. I hope for a combination of I305's intense turns and Millennium Force airtime hills (and possibly mix a little Skyrush in it, with the new winged trains, and stengel dives). I also doubt this ride will be Wonder Woman themed, but you never know.

Here's an update from February 6th that shows some interesting things:

http://www.themeparkreview.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1144657#p1144657

Apparently the pump house and the main entrance building for Log Jammer is still up. Could they be reusing it (they could demolish all this later, but still worth noting)? They could theme this giga to some monster in the wilderness (like a Sasquatch or something). I'm just interested in seeing how that area will look like within the next year, with the Log Jammer plot and Metro plot now open:














This plot is looking bigger and bigger, and when you add Flashback's plot (behind the metro station) to the mix, it looks even larger (though a water park expansion would look good in Flashback's plot).

I hope to hear some more about this 2013 coaster war soon! =)

Jaws is Dead and Phase II Plans

On January 2nd, 2012, JAWS sprang from the water, terrorizing riders, one last time, before closing for good. Right after the last attack, walls were being put up. By the next day, the games, shark photo-op, and Amity buildings were walled off (the restroom is still open though), and any evidence of JAWS and Amity have been removed from the park maps (downloadable and paper). The ride has even been removed from the interactive map.

On the 5th, the shark photo-op was unfenced, and became available for guests once again to pose with (in the mouth, as they're about to get "om nomed"... ;)).

The latest update from Orlando United now shows that a majority of the decorations have been taken down:

http://orlandounited.com/2012/01/15/amity-update/

Also, from hatetofly in the Orlando United forum:

...from what I overheard they are wasting no time taking out the ride system and show elements.

I wonder how long it will be until all those carnival buildings get to have a date with a wrecking ball, and the water gets drained (assuming some of the pictures above (some of the last ones) are of the ride in its current state). I can already hear the bulldozers.

Meanwhile, on the rumor side of things, on New Years Eve, Theme Park Insider posted details on what seems to be the plans for the replacement, which is indeed Phase II of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter:

http://www.themeparkinsider.com/flume/201112/2824/

From the plans seen, it looks like it will take over the JAWS/Amity plot, and will include the secret entrance into Diagon Alley (yes, it will also have the Leaky Cauldron). The two major attractions will be the Gringotts coaster, and another one on the southeast plot of the land (possibly King's Cross station with Platform 9 3/4, and maybe the Hogwarts Express will go over the walkway into the new section (from San Francisco) and would travel behind Mummy and other soundstages to the WWoHP in IOA).

Speaking of the Hogwarts Express, it looks like Sinbad is getting the axe too:

On the southeastern portion of the plot, a second attraction is designated. I can't tell from the plans what this attraction will be, but its position is consistent with the rumor of a Hogwarts Express ride connecting the two Harry Potter land, as this attraction points into the back-of-house access road that runs straight into the rear of Sindbad theater where the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is expanding into in Islands of Adventure.

Bye Sinbad! You were an OK show!

They even posted pictures of the Gringotts coaster trains:
































And here's a quote about the ride system, which looks a lot like the ride system reported earlier:

After the load platform, the two load channels merge to the south, then bearing to the left and entering Scene 1: "Turntable." In this scene, you'll face a brick wall, with two tunnel entrances, to the left and right. But before you proceed, the track below the first of the twin cars will drop from underneath that car. The track will come to rest at a 40-degree angle. Then, the track under the trailing car will begin to rise, matching the 40-degree angle of the leading car.

At that point, the two cars will drop in tandem into a third tunnel, below the tunnel on the right. Basically, we've just ridden a teeter-totter-like vertical track switch, attaching to the roller coaster track for our initial drop.

The Gringotts ride won't be a traditional roller coaster. It appears to be a hybrid roller coaster and motion-base ride, a la Spider-Man and Transformers. There are 3D projection screens throughout the ride, embedded in the rockwork of the tunnel walls, creating an illusion of open space, within which we'll watch battles taking place.

Sounds good to me! =D

Can't wait to hear more!

Six Flags Ride Rotation Rumors

From JJ2K at Great Adventure History forums:

The mumblings I'm hearing from within the park all seem to be pointing to this season quite possibly being the last season for Bizarro. From what I have been able to piece together and again I can't confirm any of this but it does come from a collection of reliable sources is that all of the parks in the SF chain were asked to submit to corporate a coaster to be put on the "list" for ride rotation. Gadv was told they could not submit SUF because Gam had already put their SUF on the list so there was absolutely no other choice that could be made Bizarro was pretty much forced on the list.

More things I'm hearing suggest that the five "big parks": Gadv, MM, Gam, oT & oG are all required to give a coaster to the ride rotation program once every 5 years....Gam & MM have already done so. One source of mine claims however that gadv, MM & Gam have three coasters on their 5 year plans. The push that seems to be getting made right now for this year is that Bizarro is out...IMO its likely destination is between SFstl & SFoT. And 2013 we will be getting an all new B&M coaster in its spot.....I have my fingers crossed its a B&M 4D and NOT a wing rider.....but the hurtful pit in the bottom of my stomach tells me its a wing rider which makes me angry cause I've been actively posting that I wanted a B&M 4D since 2003! And you know if we get a wing rider it means you can kiss a B&M 4D goodbye

This kind of makes me worried about some of the rides at SFMM... hopefully X2, Riddler (though it's likely), Goliath, and Tatsu (very unlikely) stay far away from the list. And for SFOG, I don't want their Goliath on the list either (though it's very unlikely, since it's the signature ride of SFOG).

As of this moment, SFMM has submitted Deja Vu into the list (Goliath at SFNE) and SFGAm also submitted a coaster, Iron Wolf (Apocalypse at SFA). Now Bizarro (SFGAdv) may be removed as well. So here's some speculation from yours truly (with the bold meaning confirmed and italic meaning rumored):

SFMM: Deja Vu, Scream, and Riddler
SFGAdv: Bizarro... not so sure about the others
SFOT: Mr. Freeze, Flashback, and Pandemonium
SFOG: Georgia Scorcher... IDK about the others on this one either
SFGAm: Iron Wolf, Superman: Ultimate Flight, and Rajin' Cajun

I'm not sure that I like the concept of this that much. Some of the rides listed above (SFOG, SFMM) are either ones I like, or are ones (or ONE) that I haven't ridden yet, however I was in the park.

It should be interesting though to see where these rides end up (or if these rides even get moved). I'm also curious as to wondering what SFGAdv has in mind for Bizarro's plot. Could we be seeing another Wing Coaster or something new entirely (or even one of the other rides listed above)?

New Theme Park News

Again, I do apologize for neglecting the blog lately, but I have been terribly busy. Now I finally have the opportunity to update some things.

First off I will start with the name of B&M's new design that debuted this year. Yes it's official: it will be called the Wing Coaster. This pic is from IAAPA Trade Show 2011 (from ThemeParkReview):
























So we have our Wing Coaster name! I actually really like the name. =)

Dollywood:

So to start things off, let's look at our current Wing Coaster construction. Dollywood recently completed their Wild Eagle as of November 2, 2011. Here's two pics from ernierocker at ThemeParkReview from a recent backstage construction tour:





































This looks to be one of the most photogenic rides, especially when trees or flowers get added to that last pic.

Thorpe Park:

Swarm was also completed recently, on November 18, 2011 (from The Swarm - Developers Diary on Facebook):

















Keep in mind, when the plans were first seen, it showed some thematic elements installed, including an airplane at the bottom of the first drop (headchopper I think). With those installed, this will look incredible (not that it doesn't already, ESPECIALLY with that twist n' dive on top).

I know I keep saying this all the time, and it might sound repetitive, but FLORIDA NEEDS ONE (that and a hyper, giga, stand-up, and more Intamins and launched coasters)!!

Leviathan:

Getting out of the Wing Coaster zone, let's look at another one of B&M's impressive new coasters next year: the giga coaster, Leviathan, at Canada's Wonderland. Recently vertical construction started, and on the 18th, the 306 ft. lift hill has been topped off. It really towers over the park, and here are some pics from CWMania (the last one is from ThemeParkReview):






































































When I first saw the topped off lift hill, I dropped my jaw. The monster is literally dominating the look of the park, and I love it! This is the most exciting coaster next year for me! I hope I can experience this bad boy soon!

In the second picture, notice how the big box track above transitions into the standard B&M box track. Apparently this is a new design for B&M: essentially, their version of I305's support structure. Once the big box track separates from the main track, the big box structure goes to the ground, acting as a support. Hopefully B&M uses this in one of their future hyper/giga designs!

Skyrush:

Don't worry Skyrush, haven't forgotten about you! Vertical construction has begun for the new Intamin hyper winged coaster at Hersheypark on November 17, 2011. On the 19th track was already installed (with vertical construction being worked on the turn after the main drop):



















Just that turn alone makes me drool with anticipation! I305's turn after the drop was pure awesomeness, and I think this will be neat as well! This ride experience will be very unique (remember how the trains look like? ;) )!!

The more they come, the more I want one in the Sunshine state (come on, at least a hyper)!!

Six Flags Magic Mountain 2013:

Now the rumor side of things begin. Recently, SFMM has removed one of their log flumes: Log Jammer. Rumors are pointing towards the replacement being a record breaking coaster... possibly a giga (from TheCoasterGuy):

Brand new gigacoaster to be built were Log Jammer sits today @SFMagicMountain. Will debut for 2013 season.

It does seem possible to build a Giga, since the last coaster built that is Mega Coaster related is Goliath back in 2000. Also keep in mind, the farm in Buena Park is also rumored to build a Giga (yes, I mean Knott's) however the park will not get a new ride next year (according to a recent Cedar Fair press release). This makes me think it got delayed to 2013 (that or by next year, they mean when the 2012 season starts). So if it was delayed, we could be seeing a giga coaster war, almost similar to the 2009 coaster war in Florida (Rockit at Universal, Manta at SWO, and an all-new Space Mountain at MK). In short; if you go to SoCal, you will be in for quite a big treat in 2013!

Here is an overview of the Log Jammer plot of land to give a better idea of what may occur:

















I think some interesting rumors are coming soon.

Knott's Berry Farm Construction 2012/2013

From Screamscape:

Late 2012 / 2013 - Giga Coaster - Rumor - (9/21/11) Westcoaster stops by Knott’s once again to check out the Haunt build up duing crunch time, as well as checking on that new land clearing. According to the latest rumors, this could be for the park’s long anticipated new mega/giga coaster, though at this point in the game, we may be looking at a 2013 opening or perhaps even a late 2012.
(9/12/11) There may be hope for some kind of new attraction in the works for Knott’s after all it seems, as the latest update over at Westcoaster reports that two sites near GhostRider have been cleared suddenly, sites which should have nothing to do with the Haunt construction taking place elsewhere in the park. Curious… anyone know more?
(8/11/11) It has been awhile since any new rumors have leaked out from the Knott’s camp, as they have been very busy trying to play catch-up with Windseeker all summer, but once again the rumor of a large hyper/mega/giga coaster project in the works for the park’s next big attraction has been reaffirmed.

Here are some links to some pics of the land clearing:

http://www.westcoaster.net/community/viewtopic.php?f=29&t=4392#p99755

http://www.westcoaster.net/updates.php?updateCD=091311&page=10 (for the rest of the update)

http://www.westcoaster.net/updates.php?updateCD=092011&page=14 (also for the rest of the update)

If the rumors of a possible station in the old Kingdom of the Dinosaurs building is true, this will be one MASSIVE coaster. This will also link to the rumors of this coaster traveling through quite a bit of the park, from the old KOD building, over the Bigfoot Rapids, and into the backstage area by the KBF Resort Parking Lot, all the way to Ghost Rider (where the land clearing is taking place) and back into the park (these next quotes are old rumors from last year):

So rumor has it, the sky tower and perilous plunge are out, KOD will be the loading dock. It will be 300 feet tall, and run from Sky tower/ Xcellator to Big Foot, to Ghost Rider. If you get back stage look for the markers around the Four Corners Café, and in front of the rides office.

When I worked there back in 2006, somebody had gotten to see blueprints for what was supposed to be a new hyper coaster. We had seen all the higher ups scouting out the area as well, they were monitoring foot traffic, and it was all supposed to take place in the old Kingdom of the Dinosaurs building, thats where the station was going to be, with the queue taking out the arcade below and the drop turning out over I believe the street behind it was Western, can't recall, and into the employee parking lot for a Hammerhead turn, then over Bigfoot Rapids, and continue all over the place. Then, out of nowhere, in our eyes, everything was dropped, or put on hold. Maybe this is it, but changed a bit? It was supposed to be at least a 2 year construction process since it took up so much room. Hopefully something of the same is going to happen. It would actually give me a reason to visit again.

Also a new rumor from Bolliger&Mabillard at ThemeParkReview:

There is a rumor that when (if) this coaster starts to go up, every area except Snoopy and Fiesta will be affected. Is it possible that this clearing has to do with a 2012 attraction? Maybe. But me thinks it has to do moreso with GhostRider's rehab. I don't know, haven't seen which area they're referring to.

As for the opening, I kind of expect it to be in late 2012. They are starting construction now, and it just makes sense for a late 2012 opening, as Knott's has done openings of new rides late in the year, particularly December (Ghost Rider in 1998, Silver Bullet in 2004). I can really see this attraction opening in late 2012, and the LATEST would be 2013.

I think this project will be one of the biggest coaster projects I have ever seen, and if the rumors are true, this may be the tallest and fastest non-launched coaster in the world. Once it gets announced (if it happens that is), I think it will be a very big day in the amusement industry.

Six Flags Parks 2012

Six Flags Great America:

While Dollywood is getting America's first Wing Coaster, SFGAm was the first American park to announce a Wing Coaster.

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/x-flight/

Gurnee, Ill. (September 1, 2011) – Get ready to take flight! Six Flags Great America announces plans to add a state-of-the-art roller coaster for the 2012 season. X-Flight is a ground-breaking wing coaster featuring cutting-edge technology. The Gurnee theme park is the first to announce plans for a wing coaster in the U.S.

X-Flight will take riders on a flight that defies gravity, with no track above or below them. Riders sit in pairs, suspended on either side of the track with their feet dangling, as they begin their climb up a 12-story plunge launching them into speeds of 55mph through 3,000 feet of intense drops and five inversions, including a barrel roll and zero-g roll. One of the most adrenaline-pumping moments on the ride is an extreme fly-through where the coaster speeds straight toward a structure, before making a last-minute vertical flip to fit through a keyhole cut-out.

“Six Flags Great America has a long history of introducing legendary rides and first-of-its-kind roller coasters,” said Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great America Park President. “What makes X-Flight so unique is soaring through 3,000 feet of high-speed drops, loops and turns, with nothing above or below you. The coaster’s train actually looks like a plane with seats suspended on either side of the track. It’s like nothing you have ever experienced before. We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary wing coaster to our guests for the 2012 season.”

X-Flight is designed by acclaimed Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, who also designed Six Flags Great America favorites: Raging Bull, SUPERMAN: Ultimate Flight and BATMAN: The Ride. The wing coaster will make its home in the County Fair section of the park. Construction begins this Fall. X-Flight is scheduled to open Spring of 2012.

Six Flags Great America is located between Chicago and Milwaukee and offers fun for the entire family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters, a free 20-acre water park, spectacular shows, a nighttime illuminated parade and three children’s themed areas. Soar on X-Flight all season long with a 2012 Season Pass, now on sale for $64.99 for four or more. Buy now and get a
2012 Season Parking Pass free. Sale ends October 30, 2011.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

This kind of reminds me of Swarm going up at Thorpe Park. Anyways, I really like this ride (probably the most exciting out of all the announcements), especially that "keyhole" effect (hm... perfect for my IOA Wing Coaster idea)!

Six Flags Magic Mountain:

For next year, SFMM is building the tallest drop tower in the world:

Another one for the history books, Six Flags Magic Mountain, in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC Entertainment, announced today the world’s tallest vertical drop ride, LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom, will make its debut for the 2012 season. Named after one of DC Comics’ most dangerously intelligent super-villains and Superman’s greatest enemy, LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom will be an engineering phenomenon, attached to both sides of the iconic SUPERMAN: Escape from Krypton tower. Soaring at a sky-scraping 400 feet, LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom is slated for a spring 2012 launch.

Fearless riders will be seated inside floorless gondolas on two vertical tracks flanking each side of the SUPERMAN: Escape from Krypton tower. Passengers on the gondolas will be pulled to the top of the tower, experience a brief pause before being released and dropped at speeds of up to 85 miles-per-hour. After five seconds of freefall, the gondola will be stopped by a sophisticated magnetic braking system just a few feet from the ground.

“Six Flags is known world-wide as the industry leader in delivering world-class thrills, and Six Flags Magic Mountain is proud to be at the head of the pack, offering guests the biggest and the best,” said Bonnie Rabjohn, Six Flags Magic Mountain Park President. “We are excited to add another world record to our collection of record-breaking, first-on-the-planet attractions.”

Changing Magic Mountain’s legendary skyline, LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom will offer riders breathtaking panoramic views as they are lifted to the top of the tallest vertical drop ride ever built. Sitting eight abreast, riders will plummet 40 stories at an extreme speed before coming to a stop, all while the SUPERMAN: Escape from Krypton cars are blasted to the top of the same structure.

“Six Flags Magic Mountain continues to deliver powerful thrills to our guests year after year,” said Jim Reid-Anderson, Chairman, President and CEO of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. “LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom is a tremendous addition and brings a new dimension of excitement to the park’s already remarkable collection of thrill rides.”

LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom is being manufactured exclusively for Six Flags Magic Mountain by Intamin AG of Switzerland.

Someone actually thought of the idea of a drop tower on the side of S:EFK at some point.

Anyways, this ride looks really... insane. Tallest drop tower in the world (at least 400 ft)! That looks like an awesome addition to an already amazing park like SFMM!

Six Flags New England:

Looks like Deja Vu is moving to SFNE and will now be known as Goliath:

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/goliath/

Six Flags New England, home to the largest collection of coasters in the Northeast, today announced the addition of Goliath a suspended looping boomerang coaster that will leave guests wondering which way is up! New England’s newest coaster will reside in the Crack Axle Canyon section of the park and will make its debut in late spring of 2012.

The ride experience will begin when guests are strapped into chairs suspended from the track above, Goliath sends riders dangling face-down out of the station and up the first tower. Once riders reach the top of the tower they are dropped into a complete vertical 18-story free-fall reaching speeds of 65 miles-per-hour before racing head-over-heels on the outside of a 102-foot-tall vertical loop followed by an enormous 110-foot-tall butterfly turn before rocketing up the second 19-story tower. Think that’s all…hold on, there’s more as guests are sent rocketing back through the entire experience all over again with nothing beneath their feet but earth and sky.

“Six Flags New England is thrilled to announce the addition of Goliath to our already amazing arsenal of rides,” said Jason Freeman, Six Flags New England park president. “This ride delivers pure adrenaline from start to finish and solidifies our commitment to adding high volume fun for the entire family.” Goliath joins an incredible line up of coasters including: Cyclone, Batman The Dark Knight, Mind Eraser and of course the top rated steel coaster, Bizarro. When coaster enthusiasts are looking for thrills and excitement, Six Flags New England is their #1 choice! Six Flags New England is also home to three dedicated children’s areas, entertaining shows, FREE concerts and New England’s largest water park. Guests can experience Goliath-sized thrills all season long with a 2012 Season Pass! Buy three (3) 2012 Season Passes today for $59.99, and get one (1) FREE, plus receive FREE parking. Season passes must be processed by October 30, 2011 to receive FREE parking and can be used for the remainder of the 2011 season. Be sure to check out Fright Fest, New England’s premier haunted attraction, weekends in October. Don’t miss out on the fun, visit www.sixflags.com to purchase online.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation:
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

Weird how they called it "Goliath" when it seems more fitting for a hypercoaster... =/

This looks like a nice addition to SFNE, but I can think of two other weird things:

They are putting up Goliath right next to Flashback in the old boat site, RIGHT NEXT TO a Vekoma Boomerang (Flashback) with the cobra rolls facing each other (I thought it going up in SFNE was weird enough with the boomerang, but right next to it =/).

Another weird thing is that SFMM is even removing it. They worked hard on gaining the coaster crown from Cedar Point; now they're just going to let it go?

Glad to see the ride saved though. I actually saw it at SFMM last winter, and it looked pretty sick looking. Too bad it was down! =( But if I go to SFNE (yes IF), I can ride Deja Vu/Goliath!

Six Flags America:

The first B&M ever built is getting a new home in SFA, and will be known as Apocalypse (like SFMM's former Terminator Salvation coaster):

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/six-flags-america-announces-apocalypse/

The end is near as Six Flags America prepares to face the Apocalypse in 2012! Mayhem comes to Maryland’s favorite theme park in the form of a 100-foot mean machine roller coaster. Guests will take a stand against the end of the world in an all-new, stand-up, steel adventure.

Upon approaching Apocalypse, located in the Skull Island area of the park, guests will wind through a queue stepping further and further into an end of the world scenario. Just when it looks bleak, riders will break out to make the final stand against obliteration. They’ll stand four abreast together, while making the 100-foot ascent to the ride’s apex. For two minutes, they’ll hurtle along the 2,900-foot steel track, feeling the rush of 55 miles-per-hour speeds, hairpin turns, and pulse-pounding inversions.

The Apocalypse is planned to begin at Six Flags America on Friday, May 25, 2012 with a grand opening observance in the morning as the park opens and a thrilling display of fire in the sky that evening. 2012 Six Flags America Season Pass holders will be invited to be amongst the first to brave the ride in a two-day preview event on Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 2012. Season passes are on sale today at sixflags.com/America.

Apocalypse has been designed by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) of Switzerland. This is Six Flags America’s first B&M coaster as well as the park’s first stand-up coaster. Apocalypse promises to add to a whole new high-intensity thrill to Maryland’s favorite theme park, complementing the park’s arsenal of world-class roller coasters, thrill rides, and water park. The seven current roller coasters at Six Flags America are anchored by the 200-foot SUPERMAN: Ride of Steel; and highlighted by BATWING, Maryland’s first flying coaster; and the classic wooden Wild One, which celebrates its 95th year of thrills in 2012.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

I'm glad Iron Wolf has been saved! I mean, while it is supposedly painful from what I hear, I respect it, since it is B&M's first coaster! =) Also glad that SFA is finally getting a coaster (I would have preferred a new one, but this is okay, especially if it gets the rumored new trains).

Six Flags Great Adventure:

Looks like SFGAdv has entered the Star Flyer battle (along with another SF park that I'll mention after this):

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/greatadventure/

Six Flags Great Adventure, America’s largest regional theme park, today unveiled plans to add both extreme and family thrills to its current lineup for 2012. SkyScreamer, an extreme swing ride, will transform the Fantasy Forest skyline while three additional family rides are introduced to the whimsically-themed section below – bumper cars, scrambler and flying elephants.

Theme park guests will have more to scream about with the introduction of SkyScreamer. The newest sensation in tower rides, SkyScreamer will take swing rides to the next level and join the park’s already breathtaking lineup of thrills as it whisks guests up, up and away high over the park, feet dangling and hair blowing. Towering 15 stories above the ground, SkyScreamer will reside next to the classic Big Wheel. Thirty-two guests will board the ride and sit two across in open-air swings as they climb to the top of the SkyScreamer tower while spinning round and round. At full swing, guests will soar in a 98-ft. circle at speeds of 40 mph high above the park below.

For those wishing to keep their feet closer to the ground, the park is introducing two new, yet classic, family attractions – bumper cars and a music-themed scrambler. Guests will also be greeted with the return of the popular flying elephants ride, which formerly made its home in The Golden Kingdom section of the theme park.

“Although we are best known for our record-breaking thrills, families have told us they would like more attractions they can enjoy together. So this season we are introducing four rides sure to deliver fun for all ages,” said park president John Fitzgerald.

At Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, it’s go big, go extreme – with the addition of exciting, new drop boxes guaranteed to ramp up the thrill factor at the slide tower known as “The Falls.” Guests will climb into a clear, fully-enclosed launch capsule and begin the nerve-wracking countdown to the moment when the floor literally disappears beneath them and sends them into a freefall at speeds of up to 32 mph.

“Drop boxes are an innovative, exciting addition to our already thrilling speed slides,” Fitzgerald added. “They are not for the faint of heart. The sheer anticipation of waiting for the floor to drop will have our guests’ adrenaline pumping.”

The best way to enjoy the thrills of the 2012 season is with a season pass. 2012 season passes are currently on sale and a great family value at $59.99 per person, which includes the theme park and free admission to the Wild Safari; and for just $10 more provides admission to Hurricane Harbor water park. All season passes include free tickets for friends and unlimited access to this season’s Fright Fest Halloween celebration in October. Guests who process their passes by October 30, 2011 receive one free parking pass with every four season passes purchased-a $50 value. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

Shocking how it will only be 15 stories high (presumably the smaller SFDK-esque version). I figured it would be WindSeeker-sized. But that will do! ;) I'm really intrigued by these drop boxes on water slides. Hopefully some water park in Florida (Rapids Water Park, Aquatica, Adventure Island, Wet N' Wild, and the two Disney water parks) will add a drop boxed-water slide.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas:

Yes, this park will also get a SkyScreamer:

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/fiestatexas/

September 1, 2011 – San Antonio, TX – Six Flags Fiesta Texas revealed plans today to give guests more to scream about in 2012 with the introduction of SkyScreamer. The newest sensation in tower rides, SkyScreamer joins the park’s already spectacular lineup of thrills as it takes guests skyward, high above the park. The addition of SkyScreamer continues Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ tradition of providing thrilling rides and award-winning live entertainment. A selection of new and returning show favorites will also be featured in 2012.

Towering 200-ft. above the ground, SkyScreamer will surpass the height of the park’s quarry walls. Thirty-two guests will board the ride and sit two across in open air swings as they climb to the top of the SkyScreamer tower while spinning round and round. At full swing, guests will soar in a 98-ft. circle at speeds of 40 mph with the rest of the park far below their dangling feet.

“SkyScreamer will provide a breathtaking, panoramic view towering above our unique park setting. From the vantage point of these thrilling, open-air swings, guests will have an unusual birds’ eye perspective of the San Antonio skyline as they soar to new heights,” stated Park President Martin Bozer.

By day, guests will have an aerial view for miles past the cliff walls and even into downtown. By night, SkyScreamer will provide a totally different experience. SkyScreamer will take flight in Spring 2012.

Guests may enjoy Six Flags Fiesta Texas all season long including the new SkyScreamer, concerts and special events with a 2012 Season Pass. Now through October 30, 2011 guests can purchase a 2012 Season Pass and get the rest of 2011 FREE including Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park! Guests who purchase and process a 2012 Season Pass 4-Pack by October 30, 2011 will receive a special price of $56.99 (plus tax) per pass and free Season Parking Pass. A Season Pass offers unlimited visits to both the theme park and White Water Bay water park and comes with over $300 of in-park savings on food, games and souvenirs, free tickets for friends and access to exclusive events. It is the best deal to experience the best thrills!

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

This also looks like a cool addition to SFFT.

And now the Star Flyer vs WindSeeker battle moves to the center of the USA (if Worlds of Fun gets one)...

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom:

Now, X-Flight may be my favorite of the announcements, but this is the most interesting one though:

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Announces New Thrill Coaster in 2012 — SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight


New Thrill Coaster is Park’s First DC Comics-Themed Attraction

The familiar refrain, “It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Superman!” will become part of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom’s lexicon with the official announcement today of the park’s exciting new roller coaster, SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight. The ride, created in a partnership between Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC Entertainment, is slated to open in spring 2012.

This one-of-a-kind super launch coaster features the tallest inversion west of the Mississippi and will rank alongside the tallest coaster inversions in the world. At 150 feet high, riders will experience lightning speeds of 62 miles per hour, with two upside-down twists and two vertical rolls over a track length of 863 feet.

“We’re excited to bring this caliber of ride to Discovery Kingdom,” said Dale Kaetzel, Park President. “Since we opened our super coaster Medusa in 2000, the public has been waiting for a ride to match that intensity. We believe that SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight will satisfy even the most fearless thrill-seeker, and then some.”

As Discovery Kingdom’s first DC Comics-themed ride, the new addition is the perfect complement to the park’s unique collection of marine life, wildlife and wild rides. Thrill rides include the aforementioned Medusa, along with Kong, Roar, Vertical Velocity and Boomerang, and SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight’s addition solidifies Discovery Kingdom’s standing as Northern California’s best place to experience thrills of all kinds.

Brightly painted in Superman’s colors — vibrant blue, red and yellow — the steel coaster will be visible from Highway 37 and beyond from its location on the eastern side of the park. Construction on SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight will begin in early 2012.

SUPERMAN Ultimate Flight is being manufactured for Six Flags Six Flags Discovery Kingdom by Premier Rides.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

At first when I saw this, I thought it would be made by Maurer Sohne (the people who did HRRR and some Skyloop coasters) but then I read it was Premier and got really intrigued. I mean, I know SFDK is known for having unique rides (V2, an Impulse that inverts (though that was because of height restrictions), and Medusa, B&M Floorless with a Sea Serpant roll) but... WOW! This is probably my 2nd favorite of the SF 2012 announcements.

This will supposedly replace Pandemonium, which may relocate to Six Flags Mexico soon.

Six Flags St. Louis:

SFSL is building a rather interesting water slide:

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/bonzaipipeline/

ST. LOUIS, MO – September 1, 2011 – Six Flags St. Louis today announced plans to add an extreme body slide, Bonzai Pipeline, to Hurricane Harbor in 2012. Bonzai Pipeline joins the
12-acre water park’s existing lineup of water attractions as the only looping body slide with a launching capsule. Hurricane Harbor opened in 1999 and remains Missouri’s only free water park with theme park admission.

Bonzai Pipeline is the ultimate wipeout experience featuring twin, looping slides that sit side by side and the Proslide Skybox launching capsule. After reaching the top of the 6-story structure, guests will step into the enclosed capsule where the floor drops out beneath them, sending them free-falling down the slide and into a side “super loop.” Riders will surf the 290-ft. slide at up to 40 mph. Bonzai Pipeline’s clear tubes allow spectators below to watch riders as they shoot through the 360˚ loops and splash out into the water below.

“Hurricane Harbor is already a favorite of our guests during their visit to Six Flags St. Louis,” said Dave Roemer, Six Flags St. Louis park president. “The addition of Bonzai Pipeline makes the water park an even greater value while providing a new element of extreme thrill that we think guests are really going to love.”

Bonzai Pipeline, manufactured by Proslide Technology, Inc., is scheduled to open May 2012. The body slide will be located to the west side of the wave pool and will have a 48” height requirement.

Six Flags St. Louis is also launching the sale of 2012 Season Passes. For a limited time, guests purchasing four or more 2012 Season Passes will receive a special price of just $46.99 per pass, the price of a one-day ticket, and one free Season Parking Pass. Season Passes must be purchased and processed by October 30, 2011 for this special offer. A 2012 Season Pass will not only let guests experience all that Six Flags St. Louis and Hurricane Harbor have to offer including the new Bonzai Pipeline, but guests can use the Season Pass for the remainder of the 2011 season including Fright Fest in October. A Season Pass offers the best value with unlimited visits to the theme park and water park and comes with a coupon book featuring over $300 in special offers including limited free concerts. A Season Pass can also be used at all
Six Flags theme parks throughout the country.

This type of water slide is really cool looking! This is one I hope goes up in Adventure Island or Aquatica (or Rapids Water Park)! =)

The Great Escape:

TGE is adding a similar water slide to the one ^ above:

http://news.sixflags.com/2012news/2011/08/26/alpinefreefalls/

LAKE GEORGE, N.Y., (September 1, 2011) – The Great Escape’s popular outdoor water park, Splashwater Kingdom goes big in 2012! The Great Escape and Splashwater Kingdom today announced plans to add Alpine Freefalls, a two level water slide complex set to open May 2012. The new attraction will boast the park’s first free fall speed slide with Skybox technology and the Northeast’s first of its kind mat racer.

Guests will face their biggest fears when they take on the double black diamond Cliffhanger water slide. Perched six stories high, riders will count to three before the floor drops from below, plunging them at speeds of up to 32 mph down an 80 degree drop into six inches of water. The plummet slide will complement the popular Tornado water slide, offering thrill seekers the ultimate water park adventure.

For those looking for a little competition, Twisted Racer is a four-story, four-lane race through enclosed tunnels, giving guests the chance to compete with friends and family at speeds of over 25 feet per second. Riders will race on mats through pretzel shaped tubes before opening up into a final drop and a straight shot to the finish line where each competitor’s time will be displayed on LED boards.

“Alpine Freefalls will offer our guests an extreme water ride experience combined with friendly competition,” said Don McCoy, President of The Six Flags Great Escape Properties. “We believe this multi-slide attraction will be a great enhancement to the water park and offer guests an attraction that is as fun to watch as it is to ride.” McCoy added, “From our coasters and shows, to our two children’s areas and free water park, there is no other theme park in the area that offers the tremendous amount of thrills we do for one price.”

More information about Alpine Freefalls will be released during a hard hat tour of the attraction’s construction site in the spring of 2012.

Splashwater Kingdom, including the all-new Alpine Freefalls is free with park admission or season pass. 2012 Season Passes are now on sale. Buy yours today for $49.99 and visit during the rest of the 2011 season, including Fright Fest, FREE. Also, when you purchase four or more season passes, get FREE parking for the 2012 season. Offer ends October 30, 2011.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the company’s flagship location, is celebrating its 50th anniversary season in 2011.

Overall these are nice additions SFI! 2012 is shaping up to be an epic year!