So we will now talk about the next possible parks in line to receive Giga Coasters. At this point, there are 4 in existance (with a 5th one coming next year):
2000: Millennium Force - Cedar Point - Intamin
2000: Steel Dragon 2000 - Nagashima Spa Land - Morgan
2010: Intimidator 305 - Kings Dominion - Intamin
2012: Leviathan - Canada's Wonderland - B&M
2015: Centurion (no official name) - Carowinds - B&M (rumored)
Parks are still getting Gigas... but keep in mind, these things can be pretty expensive. Millennium costed $25 million, Steel Dragon costed $52 million (OMG), I305 costed $25 million, Leviathan costed $28 million, and Centurion is supposedly going to cost $30 million (I'd expect a longer ride than Leviathan in that case, but that's another story). At this point, the next one is Centurion... but what else could be coming?
Here are the options in this case:
Knott's Berry Farm
In 2011, rumors started spreading of a 340 ft coaster with a 328 ft drop of 85 degrees, 6000 ft long and speeds of around 100 mph, made by Intamin. After that, some land clearing was occurring by Ghostrider... but nothing really materialized from that construction. The rumors died off, but in summer 2012, rumors came back alive again. Some rumors shifted to this ride being a B&M, like Leviathan. Rumors started to boil up for a 2013 installment when Perilous Plunge was confirmed for removal in August... unfortunately, while there was a 2013 coaster, it was a simple wild mouse with a themed boardwalk area. While that is great for families (Knott's does cater to families), the park needs a coaster (or really a new ride in general) soon, especially with their newest installment (WindSeeker) moving to Worlds of Fun this year. At this point, the park is focused on freshening up attractions, such as the Calico Mine Ride, and the rumor of a giga became a running gag these days. But could 2016/2017 finally be the year we see this Giga come to life? Who knows? According to Screamscape, as of late 2012, the park may still get that Giga in the future. Southern California could use some more airtime. Funny, the Knott's situation with a Giga almost reminds me of Busch Gardens Tampa's rumored 2009 coaster. They were to get a B&M Hyper like Apollo's Chariot by Jungala, but that was scrapped with the In-Bev buyout in 2008. In late 2009, however, the rumors came back to life, this time becoming Cheetah Hunt in 2011 (Intamin LSM). This looks pretty similar to Knott's. Supposed to get an Intamin Giga in 2012/2013, now probably getting a B&M Giga, possibly in the 2016/2017 range.
Busch Gardens Tampa
Speaking of BGT, I also suspect this park will get a Giga coaster in 2016. This is more likely, because it is a rumor lately, and we have Gwazi biting the dust soon. Plus with the coaster delayed from 2015 to 2016, I would say BGT is preparing for something MASSIVE to replace Gwazi. We also saw that BGT isn't afraid of building rides over 300 ft. A giga would also advertise more in Florida, with the rising crowds in Orlando. If it comes in 2016, this would put this monstrosity with whatever Universal is planning for KidZone in 2016. They also could be keeping an eye on Centurion at Carowinds, and possibly get inspired by that. Also like SoCal, Florida just needs an airtime machine. It would incredibly crazy if Knott's and BGT get a Giga the same year though (2016). XD
Kings Island
This is definitely more down the line, since Kings Island got their new coaster this year, Banshee, a B&M Inverted. If anything, I suspect it would happen in the 2018-2020 category. That being said, however, I do believe that after Knott's, Kings Island is likely to get a giga. It would definitely be a B&M in that case, because Cedar Point has Millennium Force, an Intamin giga. Two Intamin gigas in the same state by Cedar Fair... as appetizing as that sounds, it seems a little improbable.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Also a little more down the line, SFMM should also get a giga, particularly the first in the Six Flags chain. I believe they would go with Intamin on this one. I also believe this would happen after Iron Colossus is built and after a few new other rides are installed (maybe a mega-Skyscreamer with some other flats). Maybe around 2018 or something. XP
So that said, here's the schedule:
Carowinds - Centurion - B&M - 2015
Busch Gardens Tampa - B&M/Intamin - 2016
Knott's Berry Farm - B&M - 2016
Kings Island - B&M - 2018/2020
Six Flags Magic Mountain - Intamin - 2018
Saturday, May 3, 2014
The Next RMC Coasters/Iron Horse Conversions
I thought I'd do something different with speculating possible new coasters for parks. I'll be looking at the popularity of ride systems: RMC Coasters/Iron Horse Conversions, Giga Coasters, and Wing Coasters.
I'll first start with RMC. At this point, RMC has created (or will create) the following:
New Texas Giant (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Over Texas - 2011
Outlaw Run (Wooden Coaster) - Silver Dollar City - 2013
Iron Rattler (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Fiesta Texas - 2013
Medusa: Steel Coaster (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Mexico - 2014
Goliath (Wooden Coaster) - Six Flags Great America - 2014
Wildfire (Wooden Coaster) - Kolmarden (Sweden) - 2016
Two new rides are opening this year, and one is also confirmed for 2016 (the first European RMC too). But what could possibly be in store for these rides next year? I think they are huge successes, and I don't think they are stopping these anytime soon (hopefully one day, one will come to the Sunshine State).
That being said, however, I think we will limit most of these possibilities to Six Flags parks, since RMC does have a busy schedule (they'll probably go to Cedar Fair at one point, but for now it's the Six Flags parks). This doesn't count stuff though that are already rumors (like Darien Lake).
So, let's begin:
Six Flags Great Adventure
This park just removed Rolling Thunder (worst coaster there IMO. Good riddance), so now would be a good time to add a wooden coaster. This park is rumored for a coaster in 2015, in addition to Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom (the long-rumored drop tower finally opening this year). The only problem with an RMC is that it would be close in similarity (and intensity) to the neighboring El Toro, so I would guess they would build it in Movietown (that area needs work, BADLY). But, if they add an inverting RMC (like Goliath), this would be the first ride like that on the East Coast.
Six Flags New England
Like GADV, if they add an RMC, it would also be the first ride of that caliber on the East Coast. Apparently, there is a rumor spreading about Iron Cyclone happening in 2015. Looking at the coaster, I would expect a longer layout, possibly dominating Flashback (Vekoma Boomerang; get this, the park just got Deja Vu... er Goliath, in 2012, a Giant Inverted Boomering (better). Flashback needs to go). The north side did just get attention with the 2014 installment of New England Skyscreamer (400 ft). Iron Cyclone would just help that section even more. SFNE is also supposed to get two new coasters within the next five years. If Iron Cyclone doesn't happen in 2015, I suspect a built-from-scratch RMC Woodie would happen in 2017.
Six Flags St Louis
This park does need attention, especially with their 2013 addition being a used Boomerang from SFOT (Flashback). There's a rumor spreading about an Iron Boss conversion, but it has almost died off unfortunately. Iron Boss, however (looking at the layout and what they could do), could do wonders for this neglected park.
Darien Lake
Out of the Six Flags parks range, Darien Lake was rumored to get an RMC in 2014 called "Lake Monster." This would replace Predator and have a Wing-Over Drop (almost like the Wing Coasters, but look at Medusa Steel Coaster's drop. That's what I believe). The lift of Predator was supposed to stay (the only part of the ride that would remain intact). I believe this could happen for 2015, because this park needs a new coaster. This would surely also capture the attention of many!
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Rumors have been spreading since 2010 (during the Texas Giant conversion) that SFMM would give Cyclone the same treatment. This timeline, however, would be similar to that of NTAG, with the ride closing two years (fall Year -2 to summer Year 0). Could we finally see this in 2016? I'd say it's possible. Rumors range from restoring the ride to it's original glory to combining two sides together into one big coaster. If this happens, it could be the main treat of all these RMC installations.
Busch Gardens Tampa
Again, stepping out of the SF parks, because this is a rumor. The 2016 installment at BGT could be a RMC Wooden Coaster (or, like I said, a giga). This would make a lot of sense, since Gwazi is supposed to be on the chopping block for this. Replace a woodie with a woodie. This isn't like Son of Beast at Kings Island, where the ride had a horrible publicity. While Gwazi is in horrible condition (ride wise and capacity wise), it didn't receive any publicity about an accident yet. So a woodie would work fine here! Plus, it could stick out from Florida's coasters. As much as I believe Florida has enough inversions, I wouldn't mind if it was a wooden coaster with inversions. That would attract a lot of attention in Florida, and also change the general view of wooden coasters in Florida.
So to complete the timeline. Here's what I believe we can see happen:
New Texas Giant (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Over Texas - 2011
Outlaw Run (Wooden Coaster) - Silver Dollar City - 2013
Iron Rattler (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Fiesta Texas - 2013
Medusa: Steel Coaster (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Mexico - 2014
Goliath (Wooden Coaster) - Six Flags Great America - 2014
New RMC (Wooden Coaster) - Six Flags Great Adventure - 2015
RMC Conversion of Cyclone (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags New England - 2015
Lake Monster (Wooden Coaster) - Darien Lake - 2015
Wildfire (Wooden Coaster) - Kolmarden (Sweden) - 2016
New RMC (Wooden Coaster) - Busch Gardens Tampa - 2016
RMC Conversion of Collosus (Iron Horse Conversion) - Six Flags Magic Mountain - 2016
And from there, these rides will continue to grow!
Friday, May 2, 2014
Florida Parks Future Attractions Update
Busch Gardens Tampa:
Falcon's Fury is almost done, but the grand opening of this ride has recently been delayed by the park. From BGT's Twitter:
They actually did the tilting RIGHT! I rid Acrophobia in SFOG, and that does tilt... I just didn't feel it though (for some reason). This one, though, is straight down and will probably feel a LOT more effective! Regardless of delays, Falcon's Fury looks to be another winner for BGT.
But what will come after? Reports are now spreading that the next major addition (probably a coaster) won't come until 2016. Gwazi, however, is apparently set to close by the end of 2014. That means that whatever they have planned, it's probably going to be massive. Since Falcon's Fury broke the 300 ft barrier, we now know BGT isn't afraid of creating thrill rides taller than 300 ft. So could we be seeing the first Giga Coaster coming to a SeaWorld Entertainment park? It's been rumored for a while, ever since Busch executives went to Canada's Wonderland to check on Leviathan, a B&M Giga, back in October (Screamscape):
The only other option I can see for their 2016 coaster is... a RMC Wooden Coaster. While the state does have more inversions than needed, I would absolutely love it if they build a RMC coaster in the caliber of Outlaw Run at Silver Dollar City and Goliath at Six Flags Great America. These coasters have received amazing reviews, some ranking them as their best coasters (even the redos of New Texas Giant and Iron Rattler). I heard RMC also constructed El Toro (Disclaimer: constructed NOT made. ET was made by Intamin, another great company). If anything related to that amazing woodie comes to Florida, I would NOT mind waiting for a Giga. Also, like the Giga, BGT would get a lot of attention in the Southeast if they install a RMC Inverting Woodie. Plus, Gwazi is BGT's only woodie, and really the only well-known woodie in Florida, and it's supposedly on the chopping block (ever since they permanently closed half the ride in 2012).
I would be slightly disappointed if they got another steel coaster with inversions (For example, as much as I'm intrigued by them, B&M Wing Coasters). While I would love the ride (I do love inversions), the state has enough for the time being, unless it's RMC inversions. I also do believe that these two additions can also attract some of the huge crowds going to Universal and Disney (that they are sure to get in the next few years).
Walt Disney World:
Snow White Mine Train coaster is opening at the end of May at last. So what's next for Disney?
Pandora: The World of Avatar.
Yes, this new section (opening 2017) has finally begun construction at Animal Kingdom, in the beginning of the year with the closure of Camp Minnie-Mickey. We finally have Disney's response to the growing success of Universal's Harry Potter expansions.
But what else?
I barely follow Disney that much, but I've heard the possibility of refurbishing Hollywood Studios (almost like what they did to California Adventure in 2007-2012), mainly a Star Wars section dominating Indiana Jones and Muppets, as well as the Backlot Tour getting demolished for a Pixar Place expansion (possibly with that long-rumored Monsters Inc indoor coaster). That could help Disney as well! But the only problem here, is that not much about this has come as of late. I do see this happening at one point... when Disney gets it together with the construction! XP
SeaWorld Orlando:
We saw SWO get their newest major addition in 2013, Antarctica, which opened to... well, less than stellar reviews. What could the next addition to this marine life park?
Well, I'm not sure if this is happening anytime soon or not, but rumors have been spreading that the next addition to SWO is a B&M Hypercoaster on the southern side (or border) of the park. If true, I'd expect this by 2017, after BGT completes their 2016 coaster. For those not familiar, the northern side of SWO is home to Manta, JTA, Kraken, and Antarctica, while the Southern side is home to Shamu Stadium, the kids area, the old Clydesdale Hamlet/Hospitality House, and Wild Arctic. So the Southern side, from the looks of it, is dying for some attention. A hyper is a great choice IMO! While BGT builds an intense B&M Giga, or an inverting RMC Woodie, SWO can provide a nice alternative: a not-as-intense, 150-225 ft range airtime coaster.
Here's the rumors from P@n!K_Sw1tC# at Orlando United to give a better idea:
2009: Manta
2013: Antarctica
2017: New B&M Hyper
The Hyper in SWO can also go head-to-head against Avatar opening in Animal Kingdom, while not exactly the *best* competition (think about it, THEMED mega attraction catering to tourists VS a hypercoaster catering to us enthusiasts. Tourists are bigger. Unless the coaster has inversions on a woodie or is a giga, like what I believe is coming to BGT). It will at least attract a few of the crowd.
Universal:
We all know Universal's big mega-weapon, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, is opening this summer! This will probably bring in even greater crowds than when the original WWoHP opened in 2010. Here, we have a very innovative new coaster, Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts (obviously themed to the Gringotts vaults in the book/film). Gringotts will be essentially a combination of Spider-Man and the Mummy. We also have a connection between IOA and USF with the Hogwarts Express. I cannot tell you how excited I am about this expansion! I was a little sad when JAWS had to go, but, as I believed before, this expansion will probably be worth the loss! Diagon Alley will supposedly open in June.
Diagon Alley however is just the beginning (or really it was Despicable Me and Transformers; heck, I'd say WWoHP Hogsmeade started it). Comcast is really spending money on this place ever since they bought it in 2011, and it seems that they aren't stopping anytime soon... and it shows with the latest rumors.
Last we heard, Universal will open a Jurassic Park expansion in 2015, King Kong in 2016, and the KidZone redo in 2017.
Now, we have JP's expansion put on hold, King Kong coming in 2015, and the KidZone redo in 2016!
For King Kong, land clearing is apparently underway already, with permits being filed for a show building in the plot between JPRA/Thunder Falls and Ripsaw Falls. There is also loads of markings in the forest between the two rides. I saw the markings myself, and some have the word "Save" written on them (they're white markings). I believe that this means either: they will leave those alone and repurpose them for Skull Island, or relocate them either temporarily or permanently when work begins in the viewable area.
These are the permits found on March 22 by BriMan at Orlando United:
What's even more intriguing is KidZone. Not only are there rumors of a 2016 opening for whatever is going there, but work is also supposed to begin by the end of 2014 (according to rumors from April 4, 2014) from Parkscope:
"UOR Rumor: KidZone Replacement Imminent
Over the past few days we've heard chatter from multiple sources about KidZone going the way of the dodo. Now that we feel we have adequate confirmation, or at least as much confirmation you can get on a thing like this, we feel comfortable sharing what we've heard with you, our loyal readers.
The info we've heard from quite a few people point to the vast majority of KidZone being leveled in the fall to make way for a large scale/large budget project. Attractions that seem destined for the bulldozer are A Day in the Park with Barney, Curious George, and Fievel's Playland. It is unknown whether or not Woody's Nuthouse Coaster will stay and be rethemed, be moved, or be thrown out with the rest. Old school Universal fans will be happy to hear that both ET and Animal Actors should survive the wrath of Universal Orlando's extreme makeover.
We've been told that the scale of the project is large, some even calling it Potter-like. As to what we're going to see come in, well, that's anyone's guess. No one seems to know the theme of the new area, and if they do they certainly aren't sharing. We've been discussing the possibilities, and everything from Dreamworks to Scooby Doo to Fast and Furious have been brought up.
One thing's for sure, Universal isn't slowing down, nor did we expect them too. With this project and the King Kong project seemingly ready to roll once Cabana Bay and Diagon Alley wrap up, Universal is poised to continue to truck ahead.
As always, continue to follow @Parkscope for news updates."
http://www.parkscope.net/2014/04/uor-rumor-kidzone-replacement-imminent.html
This definitely does not sound like a simple KidZone redo. I would expect just a KidZone redo (like Planet Snoopy rethemes, except Universal standard) but I should know better. This won't be a Universal standard; it will be a COMCAST Universal standard. Especially with the timeline lasting from Fall 2014-Spring/Summer 2016. Again, looking at the construction timelines of Universal projects, this will have a longer construction period than Transformers or King Kong. Judging by that logic, I believe we'll be seeing an even larger addition come to KidZone in 2016. According to the rumors, we can say goodbye to Barney (YES! I hate Barney), Curious George (NO! Not the ballhouse :'( ), and Fievel's Playland (based on an outdated animated film, need I say more). No fate on Nuthouse Coaster just yet, but why scrap it? It offers a nice family coaster experience in the other park, and I can see it being relocated somewhere else in the park, maybe towards Springfield/Krustyland. Also according to the rumors, we will also see E.T. and Animal Actors stay (thank god. If they kill another classic like E.T., nostalgic dudes and park fans will swarm the place like angry bees, and Spielberg would be pissed!). If it's really "Potter-like" like what they say in the article, I would expect it to be not as massive as Diagon Alley, but much more massive than Transformers/Kong.
As for construction starting in the fall, I wonder how this will affect the houses in HHN. When I first went to HHN in 2013, I found two houses in KidZone (La Llorona and Walking Dead). Could the entrances of these houses be relocated? Or will they just stay while construction is taking place?
I'm going with the first option, because if these entrances remain the same while they demolish everything, not only will it take longer to do work, it will also congest that whole area. I think they could relocate the entrances to two places:
1. Double the entrance of Afterlife's house with La Llorona's house. I think it's possible to do so with a few modifications here and there. The entrance in question is between MIB and Simpsons (also one of the entrances used for Gradbash students).
2. Create a new entrance for Walking Dead's house. Where? In between the Simpsons and Kwik-E-Mart (where the wall showing Chief Wiggum and Bart is).
I will make a better diagram of this later. Of course, they could work on KidZone during the day, while in the night they stop and go with the later option for HHN.
Either way, the news of these two projects definitely proves what I've been saying: Comcast is NOT wasting time. Remember some of us thinking Comcast will destroy Universal; now it seems that they're improving it drastically! There's even rumors of a 5th resort hotel being built between Royal Pacific and Cabana Bay (the new one opening in 2014), as well as a new water park where Wet N' Wild is (apparently it will be VERY ground breaking!). I said this a few times, and I'll say it again:
"Come 2020, and this haven will look much different than when the first spring of success was spawned."
What do I mean by that? Well (in not so fancy terms :P), by the end of this decade, Universal will look different compared to when the "spring of success," the Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade, opened in 2010.
Falcon's Fury is almost done, but the grand opening of this ride has recently been delayed by the park. From BGT's Twitter:
"Due to construction delays, the grand opening of #FalconsFury has been delayed. We’ll post more info as it’s available, so check back soon."So it looks like the opening will have to wait a bit longer. Meanwhile the park did post a nice POV of the drop tower (going upwards was sped up, but downwards was normal):
But what will come after? Reports are now spreading that the next major addition (probably a coaster) won't come until 2016. Gwazi, however, is apparently set to close by the end of 2014. That means that whatever they have planned, it's probably going to be massive. Since Falcon's Fury broke the 300 ft barrier, we now know BGT isn't afraid of creating thrill rides taller than 300 ft. So could we be seeing the first Giga Coaster coming to a SeaWorld Entertainment park? It's been rumored for a while, ever since Busch executives went to Canada's Wonderland to check on Leviathan, a B&M Giga, back in October (Screamscape):
2015/2016 - Gigacoaster - Rumor - (10/7/13) According to a local area source members of the ride engineering department from Busch Gardens Tampa were spotted at Canada’s Wonderland over the weekend. While neither park is a stranger big rides, especially B&M coasters, the one big thing that you can find at Canada’s Wonderland and no where else in the world would be Leviathan, a B&M Gigacoaster. Is BGT ready to build the coaster coaster in Central Florida to break the 300 foot height limit? Stay tuned!I would say a Giga Coaster is definitely possible, especially with Gwazi closing by the end of the year for this 2016 addition. They would have all of 2015 to transform the Gwazi area into an immersive land to accompany this new addition, including a rumored transformation of Gwazi Park. I also think the park could be keeping an eye on Carowinds' 2015 addition ("Centurion", a B&M Giga; not an official name but we know it's a giga). Once Carowinds opens Centurion, BGT could try to take whatever height/speed/length record Centurion has into their 2016 addition. That would be a GREAT marketing tool, and would definitely give this park even more attention than it already does. Another benefit is the park and the state finally getting the airtime coaster they need!
The only other option I can see for their 2016 coaster is... a RMC Wooden Coaster. While the state does have more inversions than needed, I would absolutely love it if they build a RMC coaster in the caliber of Outlaw Run at Silver Dollar City and Goliath at Six Flags Great America. These coasters have received amazing reviews, some ranking them as their best coasters (even the redos of New Texas Giant and Iron Rattler). I heard RMC also constructed El Toro (Disclaimer: constructed NOT made. ET was made by Intamin, another great company). If anything related to that amazing woodie comes to Florida, I would NOT mind waiting for a Giga. Also, like the Giga, BGT would get a lot of attention in the Southeast if they install a RMC Inverting Woodie. Plus, Gwazi is BGT's only woodie, and really the only well-known woodie in Florida, and it's supposedly on the chopping block (ever since they permanently closed half the ride in 2012).
I would be slightly disappointed if they got another steel coaster with inversions (For example, as much as I'm intrigued by them, B&M Wing Coasters). While I would love the ride (I do love inversions), the state has enough for the time being, unless it's RMC inversions. I also do believe that these two additions can also attract some of the huge crowds going to Universal and Disney (that they are sure to get in the next few years).
Walt Disney World:
Snow White Mine Train coaster is opening at the end of May at last. So what's next for Disney?
Pandora: The World of Avatar.
Yes, this new section (opening 2017) has finally begun construction at Animal Kingdom, in the beginning of the year with the closure of Camp Minnie-Mickey. We finally have Disney's response to the growing success of Universal's Harry Potter expansions.
But what else?
I barely follow Disney that much, but I've heard the possibility of refurbishing Hollywood Studios (almost like what they did to California Adventure in 2007-2012), mainly a Star Wars section dominating Indiana Jones and Muppets, as well as the Backlot Tour getting demolished for a Pixar Place expansion (possibly with that long-rumored Monsters Inc indoor coaster). That could help Disney as well! But the only problem here, is that not much about this has come as of late. I do see this happening at one point... when Disney gets it together with the construction! XP
SeaWorld Orlando:
We saw SWO get their newest major addition in 2013, Antarctica, which opened to... well, less than stellar reviews. What could the next addition to this marine life park?
Well, I'm not sure if this is happening anytime soon or not, but rumors have been spreading that the next addition to SWO is a B&M Hypercoaster on the southern side (or border) of the park. If true, I'd expect this by 2017, after BGT completes their 2016 coaster. For those not familiar, the northern side of SWO is home to Manta, JTA, Kraken, and Antarctica, while the Southern side is home to Shamu Stadium, the kids area, the old Clydesdale Hamlet/Hospitality House, and Wild Arctic. So the Southern side, from the looks of it, is dying for some attention. A hyper is a great choice IMO! While BGT builds an intense B&M Giga, or an inverting RMC Woodie, SWO can provide a nice alternative: a not-as-intense, 150-225 ft range airtime coaster.
Here's the rumors from P@n!K_Sw1tC# at Orlando United to give a better idea:
I can, in confidence, say that a hyper coaster is in the works for the south side of the park. The location in question is the Port of Call/ Bayside Stadium area near the parking lot. BGW is scheduled to get a premier rides Superman clone (SFDK) near Apollo's Chariot.
Expect a B&M hyper at SeaWorld within the next couple of years. This has been in planning since the construction of Antarctica. If there's one thing I'll give the SWPaE crew credit for, it's that they generally come up with the best coaster designs in each of those ride's respective categories. Although the hyper is going to be targeted towards the family - I can guarantee you in won't be a flop.So we're looking at a 2016-2017 range. If it was coming in 2015, we would have heard rumors by now, maybe even an announcement (Manta was announced May 2008; Antarctica was announced Nov 2011 with details announced April 2012), and seen construction (no I don't mean the fenced off Bayside Stadium. I heard that was for events apparently). 2017 also seems to fit SWO's 4-year major attraction pattern:
2009: Manta
2013: Antarctica
2017: New B&M Hyper
The Hyper in SWO can also go head-to-head against Avatar opening in Animal Kingdom, while not exactly the *best* competition (think about it, THEMED mega attraction catering to tourists VS a hypercoaster catering to us enthusiasts. Tourists are bigger. Unless the coaster has inversions on a woodie or is a giga, like what I believe is coming to BGT). It will at least attract a few of the crowd.
Universal:
We all know Universal's big mega-weapon, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, is opening this summer! This will probably bring in even greater crowds than when the original WWoHP opened in 2010. Here, we have a very innovative new coaster, Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts (obviously themed to the Gringotts vaults in the book/film). Gringotts will be essentially a combination of Spider-Man and the Mummy. We also have a connection between IOA and USF with the Hogwarts Express. I cannot tell you how excited I am about this expansion! I was a little sad when JAWS had to go, but, as I believed before, this expansion will probably be worth the loss! Diagon Alley will supposedly open in June.
Diagon Alley however is just the beginning (or really it was Despicable Me and Transformers; heck, I'd say WWoHP Hogsmeade started it). Comcast is really spending money on this place ever since they bought it in 2011, and it seems that they aren't stopping anytime soon... and it shows with the latest rumors.
Last we heard, Universal will open a Jurassic Park expansion in 2015, King Kong in 2016, and the KidZone redo in 2017.
Now, we have JP's expansion put on hold, King Kong coming in 2015, and the KidZone redo in 2016!
For King Kong, land clearing is apparently underway already, with permits being filed for a show building in the plot between JPRA/Thunder Falls and Ripsaw Falls. There is also loads of markings in the forest between the two rides. I saw the markings myself, and some have the word "Save" written on them (they're white markings). I believe that this means either: they will leave those alone and repurpose them for Skull Island, or relocate them either temporarily or permanently when work begins in the viewable area.
These are the permits found on March 22 by BriMan at Orlando United:
So being bored on Saturday night, I stumbled across this. Some plans were filed to the South Florida Water Management that gives a good idea on what the show building and project area for Kong will be. I threw up this together based on the filings. The red outline is the project outline, and the shaded light pink area is the apparent show building.It looks like they are all set and ready to go with King Kong. I'm more excited that they are supposedly completing this within a year. For comparison's sake, work on Diagon Alley (including the removal of Jaws and Amity) lasted from January 2012-June 2014 (with all buildings up by the end of 2013), and work on Transformers (which included tearing down SS44 and building a 2-story building in its place) lasted from June 2012-June 2013. This is apparently following a similar timeline to Transformers, but this time not only do you have a different ride system as opposed to a clone, but also you have a heavily themed area. And they expect this done by next year? Insanity... madness... Comcast really isn't wasting anytime with this place.
What's even more intriguing is KidZone. Not only are there rumors of a 2016 opening for whatever is going there, but work is also supposed to begin by the end of 2014 (according to rumors from April 4, 2014) from Parkscope:
"UOR Rumor: KidZone Replacement Imminent
Over the past few days we've heard chatter from multiple sources about KidZone going the way of the dodo. Now that we feel we have adequate confirmation, or at least as much confirmation you can get on a thing like this, we feel comfortable sharing what we've heard with you, our loyal readers.
The info we've heard from quite a few people point to the vast majority of KidZone being leveled in the fall to make way for a large scale/large budget project. Attractions that seem destined for the bulldozer are A Day in the Park with Barney, Curious George, and Fievel's Playland. It is unknown whether or not Woody's Nuthouse Coaster will stay and be rethemed, be moved, or be thrown out with the rest. Old school Universal fans will be happy to hear that both ET and Animal Actors should survive the wrath of Universal Orlando's extreme makeover.
We've been told that the scale of the project is large, some even calling it Potter-like. As to what we're going to see come in, well, that's anyone's guess. No one seems to know the theme of the new area, and if they do they certainly aren't sharing. We've been discussing the possibilities, and everything from Dreamworks to Scooby Doo to Fast and Furious have been brought up.
One thing's for sure, Universal isn't slowing down, nor did we expect them too. With this project and the King Kong project seemingly ready to roll once Cabana Bay and Diagon Alley wrap up, Universal is poised to continue to truck ahead.
As always, continue to follow @Parkscope for news updates."
http://www.parkscope.net/2014/04/uor-rumor-kidzone-replacement-imminent.html
This definitely does not sound like a simple KidZone redo. I would expect just a KidZone redo (like Planet Snoopy rethemes, except Universal standard) but I should know better. This won't be a Universal standard; it will be a COMCAST Universal standard. Especially with the timeline lasting from Fall 2014-Spring/Summer 2016. Again, looking at the construction timelines of Universal projects, this will have a longer construction period than Transformers or King Kong. Judging by that logic, I believe we'll be seeing an even larger addition come to KidZone in 2016. According to the rumors, we can say goodbye to Barney (YES! I hate Barney), Curious George (NO! Not the ballhouse :'( ), and Fievel's Playland (based on an outdated animated film, need I say more). No fate on Nuthouse Coaster just yet, but why scrap it? It offers a nice family coaster experience in the other park, and I can see it being relocated somewhere else in the park, maybe towards Springfield/Krustyland. Also according to the rumors, we will also see E.T. and Animal Actors stay (thank god. If they kill another classic like E.T., nostalgic dudes and park fans will swarm the place like angry bees, and Spielberg would be pissed!). If it's really "Potter-like" like what they say in the article, I would expect it to be not as massive as Diagon Alley, but much more massive than Transformers/Kong.
As for construction starting in the fall, I wonder how this will affect the houses in HHN. When I first went to HHN in 2013, I found two houses in KidZone (La Llorona and Walking Dead). Could the entrances of these houses be relocated? Or will they just stay while construction is taking place?
I'm going with the first option, because if these entrances remain the same while they demolish everything, not only will it take longer to do work, it will also congest that whole area. I think they could relocate the entrances to two places:
1. Double the entrance of Afterlife's house with La Llorona's house. I think it's possible to do so with a few modifications here and there. The entrance in question is between MIB and Simpsons (also one of the entrances used for Gradbash students).
2. Create a new entrance for Walking Dead's house. Where? In between the Simpsons and Kwik-E-Mart (where the wall showing Chief Wiggum and Bart is).
I will make a better diagram of this later. Of course, they could work on KidZone during the day, while in the night they stop and go with the later option for HHN.
Either way, the news of these two projects definitely proves what I've been saying: Comcast is NOT wasting time. Remember some of us thinking Comcast will destroy Universal; now it seems that they're improving it drastically! There's even rumors of a 5th resort hotel being built between Royal Pacific and Cabana Bay (the new one opening in 2014), as well as a new water park where Wet N' Wild is (apparently it will be VERY ground breaking!). I said this a few times, and I'll say it again:
"Come 2020, and this haven will look much different than when the first spring of success was spawned."
What do I mean by that? Well (in not so fancy terms :P), by the end of this decade, Universal will look different compared to when the "spring of success," the Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade, opened in 2010.
Summer 2014 Trip
While I have yet to have official plans for this, I think there's a safe bet that I will be going to a trip again this summer. It will be an out-of-state trip, but which one: driving in the north like in 2011 or 2012, or an international trip to Europe like in 2010? ...or even both?
The answer is both.
By far the best summer trip I think I will have yet, it will take place from the beginning of July to the beginning of August. It will first involve a flight from Miami to Zurich (why Miami? Orlando doesn't go to Zurich), a tour of Switzerland. Then Paris, London, and Amsterdam. Then a flight back to New York from Frankfurt and a trip down South like the "driving in the north"-style trips. That means, new theme park opportunities!
All Out-of-state Summer Trips with theme parks (not counting the California winter trip):
2010:
Europa Park
2011:
Carowinds
Kings Dominion
Cedar Point
2012:
Busch Gardens Tampa
Kings Dominion
Hersheypark
Cedar Point
Six Flags Great Adventure
Unfortunately, we could not go to such places in 2013, as we were busy with our expensive moving from Pembroke Pines to Oviedo as I prepared for my first semester at UCF. I was able to get new credits in 2013, but only two at Fun Spot America in September: White Lightning and Freedom Flyer.
But this summer, we're back to traveling!
So what parks?
2014:
Universal (doesn't count as a trip since we're right there, but I think we should start the trip there with a full day)
Thorpe Park
Heide Park
Kings Dominion (the only park from the north trips that we're going this year)
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Dollywood
So the new ones are Thorpe Park, Heide Park, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and Dollywood. That also means that, unless something goes incredibly wrong at the park, there will be 3 B&M Wing Coasters (the company's newest model) that will be in the journey. I've always wanted to try one of these, and now I finally will in this trip; not one but THREE (Swarm, Flug der Damonen, and Wild Eagle). I've mainly followed at least two of them in my blog, Wild Eagle and Swarm. Other coasters in our expedition?
Krake, the dive machine I followed a while back at Heide Park. Verbolten, the addition at Busch Gardens Williamsburg that I also followed until it opened in 2012. Griffon also in BGW, a Dive Machine almost like SheiKra that I've always wanted to try. Apollo's Chariot also in BGW, the first Hypercoaster built by B&M. Colossus in Heide Park, currently the tallest wooden coaster in the world now that Son of Beast is gone, and also an Intamin Plug n' Play like El Toro (my favorite wooden coaster EVER!). Colossus in Thorpe Park, a 10-inversion coaster. And many other new additions, as well as some of my favorite coasters in Kings Dominion, like Intimidator 305, Volcano, and Dominator.
This summer, I will expand my Europe coaster collection. At this point, the only true park in Europe I went to (not counting Conny-Land. Fun place, but Cobra didn't open, so it didn't have any coasters) is Europa Park in Rust, Germany. By far one of my favorite theme parks, combining themed attractions and kick-ass coasters. Now I will add another German park (Heide Park) and an English park (Thorpe Park). I will also complete the 2 main parks of Virginia; I already did Kings Dominion, and now I will do Busch Gardens Williamsburg, let alone WITH KD). I will also finally go to Dollywood, a park that always intrigued me.
I'm also very excited about the non-theme park places we will visit, particularly Paris. Lately I've been getting into Disney's 1996 animated film, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," featured in 1482 Paris centered around the Notre Dame cathedral (where a hunchback child named Quasimodo was kept). Obviously it is a fictional piece (also based off a book by Victor Hugo, whose museum I plan on visiting), but Notre Dame almost seemed like the real thing in Paris. I would be pretty excited to finally see the real cathedral. I also am excited to see the Eiffel Tower (the real one not the KD one XP). In Amsterdam, I also would love to see the house where Anne Frank hid from the Nazis. I was always into World War II and the stories (even the malicious horrors like what happened in the Holocaust). I'm also excited about seeing London.
So could this 2014 summer trip be one of, if not the, best coaster trips yet. I would say YES! Not to mention, since in 2013 we couldn't go anywhere, this trip will definitely be welcomed! I really can't wait until this trip takes off! Just two more months!!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Universal's Many Expansions
Now to talk about a particular Central Florida Theme Park/Resort that has been growing tremendously these past few years with tower cranes building new attractions, and from the looks of it will continue to do so: Universal Orlando Resort.
In 2012, Universal opened Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (replacing the old Jimmy Neutron ride), added a nighttime show, and a parade. Also, at Islands of Adventure, they updated Spider-Man with high definition.
This year, they opened their version of Transformers (replacing the old Soundstage 44) and managed to build it in a year. They also transformed the old International Food and Film Festival restaurant and surroundings into Springfield (next to the Simpsons Ride) including Moe's, Krusty Burger, Lard Lad's Donuts, and even a new spinner flat ride, Kangs and Kodos.
2014 will bring the long-awaited Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley expansion, replacing the former JAWS ride and Amity section. At this point, London has been built along with Kings Cross and Gringotts. The track for the Hogwarts Express stretches from Kings Cross behind Disaster, ROTM and next to Sinbad into Islands of Adventure's Hogsmeade station, also being built. Soon, supposedly the Lost Continent games next to Hogsmeade's entrance and station will be removed. Also, recently the Hogwarts Express trains have arrived. 2014 will also bring a new resort: Cabana Bay Beach Resort, themed to the retro area.
At this point, I think many of us are in agreement that Comcast is the mastermind behind the sudden rise of expansions at Universal, ever since they bought Universal in 2011. So this brings the question: What's next? A employee parking garage will be going up in the employee lot behind Diagon Alley (where they drop off buses for GradBash). But in terms of rides/attractions... are they done?
According to recent reports, mainly from Orlando United... they are not done. In fact, they are FAR from done. There are many more expansions that we can expect in the years after Diagon Alley opens. But let's first start with:
Jurassic Park
It is strongly believed that the next major Universal expansion will take place in Jurassic Park, taking over both empty plots of land in the "island": the old Trike Encounter and the plot between River Adventure and Ripsaw Falls. In fact... signs are already beginning to show in this area.
Last summer brought the installation of new midway games next to River Adventure's entrance (maybe not the best way to give an island attention but...), possibly replacing the ones to be removed in the Lost Continent. Some sources say, though, that these midway traps are only the beginning of a huge expansion in Jurassic Park. Plus, site prep for future attractions are already underway apparently.
Yesterday (Nov 26), RetroKidJaycob at Orlando United reported that movement is occurring in the old Trike Encounter site (7th pic down):
http://www.orlandounited.com/forums/showthread.php/7591-Jurassic-Park-Expansion?p=348992#post348992
Surveying is already occurring in the old Trike Encounter zone. If rumors hold up, this area could be home to a Family Amber Mine-Themed Mine Coaster in 2015. This in my opinion is exactly what the park needs! They need a bridge connecting the kiddie coaster (Flight of the Hippogriff) to the thrill coasters (Hulk and Dragon Challenge), and I think a Mine Coaster will do just the trick.
As for what is going on in the plot between River Adventure and Ripsaw Falls, apparently this will be a new mini-island coinciding with the return of a former Universal icon. What may it be? Well, it looks like they're bringing the King back to Universal... King as in King KONG with the mini-island being Skull Island! Originally, King Kong was actually supposed to replace Disaster, but a recent change in plans just shifted the King to IOA as a mini-island and a major E-Ticket attraction.
HateToFly describes the concept of the King Kong ride:
Some say this could also be done by 2015 (latest being 2016). Regardless, the Amber Mine Coaster and King Kong look to be the next major attractions for Universal.
KidZone
KidZone is another possibility for future expansion and has been for years. Some say Woody Woodpecker's theme in the area will finally be removed. It's unknown what the new theme will be, but at this point replacements currently range from SpongeBob to even (at one point last summer) the Smurfs, taking over ET. Though the Smurfs rumor has been long debunked and ET also looks to be staying. I would say they will begin work here once Kong is done at IOA.
Seuss
This is another likely bet for a future expansion, in the plot behind 12RBFish. Supposedly it will be a family dark ride themed to the Lorax (the recent animated film), but HateToFly reports that this is no longer the case:
But there does seem to be something going on in Seuss Landing... I'd say after the JP Expansion/Kong attractions are done like KidZone.
Middle Earth
In the beginning of the year, rumors began spreading of Universal talking with the Tolkien family to acquire the rights to the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit franchise to bring Middle Earth to life as a new island, possibly replacing Toon Lagoon (supposedly closing in 2017). At this point, however, this rumor seems very far off in the future. Some say that because of a Tolkien-Warner Bros lawsuit in the past it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. I, being a Lord of the Rings fan, would love to see Middle Earth at IOA, but I'll be sad when Toon Lagoon leaves. I think Popeye will stay and be rethemed, but I have a feeling Dudley will meet the wrecking ball (which is a shame, because I love Dudley). I think the Toon Theater will be demolished, if not possibly exploded (not really, but... you never know)!
In closing, ever since 2012, giant tower cranes now dominate the skyline of Universal building new thrills for guests, and this is not the end of it yet. Some say that Universal may eventually add a third gate southward! Who knows... but by the end of the decade, Universal will be a very different place! Stay tuned!
In 2012, Universal opened Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (replacing the old Jimmy Neutron ride), added a nighttime show, and a parade. Also, at Islands of Adventure, they updated Spider-Man with high definition.
This year, they opened their version of Transformers (replacing the old Soundstage 44) and managed to build it in a year. They also transformed the old International Food and Film Festival restaurant and surroundings into Springfield (next to the Simpsons Ride) including Moe's, Krusty Burger, Lard Lad's Donuts, and even a new spinner flat ride, Kangs and Kodos.
2014 will bring the long-awaited Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley expansion, replacing the former JAWS ride and Amity section. At this point, London has been built along with Kings Cross and Gringotts. The track for the Hogwarts Express stretches from Kings Cross behind Disaster, ROTM and next to Sinbad into Islands of Adventure's Hogsmeade station, also being built. Soon, supposedly the Lost Continent games next to Hogsmeade's entrance and station will be removed. Also, recently the Hogwarts Express trains have arrived. 2014 will also bring a new resort: Cabana Bay Beach Resort, themed to the retro area.
At this point, I think many of us are in agreement that Comcast is the mastermind behind the sudden rise of expansions at Universal, ever since they bought Universal in 2011. So this brings the question: What's next? A employee parking garage will be going up in the employee lot behind Diagon Alley (where they drop off buses for GradBash). But in terms of rides/attractions... are they done?
According to recent reports, mainly from Orlando United... they are not done. In fact, they are FAR from done. There are many more expansions that we can expect in the years after Diagon Alley opens. But let's first start with:
Jurassic Park
It is strongly believed that the next major Universal expansion will take place in Jurassic Park, taking over both empty plots of land in the "island": the old Trike Encounter and the plot between River Adventure and Ripsaw Falls. In fact... signs are already beginning to show in this area.
Last summer brought the installation of new midway games next to River Adventure's entrance (maybe not the best way to give an island attention but...), possibly replacing the ones to be removed in the Lost Continent. Some sources say, though, that these midway traps are only the beginning of a huge expansion in Jurassic Park. Plus, site prep for future attractions are already underway apparently.
Yesterday (Nov 26), RetroKidJaycob at Orlando United reported that movement is occurring in the old Trike Encounter site (7th pic down):
This is possibly the most interesting photo Jwhee took. Notice the Tree on the right. That pink Ribbon, is a Survey Marker. That is confirming that SOMETHING, is going on we just do not know what exactly yet.
http://www.orlandounited.com/forums/showthread.php/7591-Jurassic-Park-Expansion?p=348992#post348992
Surveying is already occurring in the old Trike Encounter zone. If rumors hold up, this area could be home to a Family Amber Mine-Themed Mine Coaster in 2015. This in my opinion is exactly what the park needs! They need a bridge connecting the kiddie coaster (Flight of the Hippogriff) to the thrill coasters (Hulk and Dragon Challenge), and I think a Mine Coaster will do just the trick.
As for what is going on in the plot between River Adventure and Ripsaw Falls, apparently this will be a new mini-island coinciding with the return of a former Universal icon. What may it be? Well, it looks like they're bringing the King back to Universal... King as in King KONG with the mini-island being Skull Island! Originally, King Kong was actually supposed to replace Disaster, but a recent change in plans just shifted the King to IOA as a mini-island and a major E-Ticket attraction.
HateToFly describes the concept of the King Kong ride:
The attraction itself is a MAJOR E Ticket Attraction complete with indoor and outdoor scenes. Think Indiana Jones meets the Great Movie Ride with a little bit of Jurassic Park thrown in. The entrance themed to ruins with waterfalls bursting out of the façade. It will feature a massive themed “underground” temple queue surround among more ancient ruins. The tandem entertainment guided EMV’s will leave the temple and head out into the wilderness. Outside will feature large AA’s most that we avoid as our guide shows us the way on our journey. We then enter the massive sound stage where we will encounter numerous AA’s, giant insects, projected effects, live fire effects, and a host of other live effects. We will also see one creature utilize Kukas for arms that attack the RV’s. At one point even our driver is captured and were left to fend for ourselves in the wilderness. The final and very large scene involves the big man coming from multiple angles on both sides of the RV.This sounds like an amazing addition to the park! Plus, King Kong will still fit with the literature theme the park has.
Some say this could also be done by 2015 (latest being 2016). Regardless, the Amber Mine Coaster and King Kong look to be the next major attractions for Universal.
KidZone
KidZone is another possibility for future expansion and has been for years. Some say Woody Woodpecker's theme in the area will finally be removed. It's unknown what the new theme will be, but at this point replacements currently range from SpongeBob to even (at one point last summer) the Smurfs, taking over ET. Though the Smurfs rumor has been long debunked and ET also looks to be staying. I would say they will begin work here once Kong is done at IOA.
Seuss
This is another likely bet for a future expansion, in the plot behind 12RBFish. Supposedly it will be a family dark ride themed to the Lorax (the recent animated film), but HateToFly reports that this is no longer the case:
I've been led to believe the Lorax is dead simply due to marketability. Apparently the suits think this attraction would get lost among Potter advertising and not bring in the crowds a stronger more well known character could. Does this mean we could see the Grinch come to life? Possibly... But whatever happens in Seuss Landing it seems it will not involve the Lorax.If Lorax is really dead, I say bring the Grinch to life! I would love to see Mt Crumpit in Seuss Landing. The only problem is, will this be too similar to the JP Mine Coaster?
Whylightbulb had it correct from the get go so shout out to him!
But there does seem to be something going on in Seuss Landing... I'd say after the JP Expansion/Kong attractions are done like KidZone.
Middle Earth
In the beginning of the year, rumors began spreading of Universal talking with the Tolkien family to acquire the rights to the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit franchise to bring Middle Earth to life as a new island, possibly replacing Toon Lagoon (supposedly closing in 2017). At this point, however, this rumor seems very far off in the future. Some say that because of a Tolkien-Warner Bros lawsuit in the past it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. I, being a Lord of the Rings fan, would love to see Middle Earth at IOA, but I'll be sad when Toon Lagoon leaves. I think Popeye will stay and be rethemed, but I have a feeling Dudley will meet the wrecking ball (which is a shame, because I love Dudley). I think the Toon Theater will be demolished, if not possibly exploded (not really, but... you never know)!
In closing, ever since 2012, giant tower cranes now dominate the skyline of Universal building new thrills for guests, and this is not the end of it yet. Some say that Universal may eventually add a third gate southward! Who knows... but by the end of the decade, Universal will be a very different place! Stay tuned!
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Falcon's Fury Rising + BGT 2015 Rumors
So what's going on in the Busch Gardens frontier?
However, there is a new wild card into the equation. One word: POLERCOASTER
I love the concept of a PolerCoaster, and I'm excited see it in Florida... but BGT just doesn't seem right for it. I'd rather have an Intamin Plug n'Play or a B&M/Intamin Giga than a PolerCoaster in Busch Gardens. Plus, if it has an inversion (like what they're saying), I'll be a little disappointed. I love inversions, but BGT has ENOUGH. We need AIRTIME! I also think the ride seems way to priced for BGT. If anything, I can see this amazing creation go up in I-Drive somewhere (possibly a project conducted by Merlin, or even one of the Fun Spot parks).
You never know though, this could very well be the rumored Gwazi replacement. I'm sure whatever comes, I'll enjoy it! But we'll see what happens in the next few weeks...
Stay tuned!
A few days ago on November 18th, the base piece for Falcon's Fury was installed!
According to BGTFans, the second piece is already in the self-propelled trailer, which indicates that this next piece will be installed Thursday or Friday. Sounds like Falcon's Fury is beginning to rise into the sky! I'd expect the ride to be done when Santa comes to town!
As for 2015, from bobwadd at Orlando United:
I have been able to confirm that Gwazi will be demo'd in the spring of 2014. Still working on info for it's replacement.Gwazi is now supposed to be demolished in the spring as opposed to the end of the year as before mentioned. This certainly locks in for a Summer 2015 opening.
However, there is a new wild card into the equation. One word: POLERCOASTER
What exactly is a "PolerCoaster"? It is a new design by US Thrill Rides/S&S that features a large tower that can extend beyond 500 ft with glass elevators and an observation deck on top, including retail/restaurant space. It also includes an S&S El Loco style coaster wrapping around the tower.
How exactly is this involved with BGT's 2015 rumors? At this point, three installations have been confirmed: one for Las Vegas standing 650 ft tall, one for the LakePoint Sporting Community around the Atlanta area standing 325 ft tall (opening 2015)... and one for Florida standing 525 ft tall (also opening 2015). It would begin with an inversion on the top and would have a length of 8000 ft. This monstrosity will take the title for the tallest coaster in the world. "Okay, I still don't get, what does this have to do with BGT?" Bobwadd from Orlando United reports an interesting rumor that the PolerCoaster for Florida could very well end up rising at BGT:
All I'm saying is a little birdieThis is just my honest opinion... I honestly don't know if I believe this just yet. This system just doesn't seem right for Busch Gardens, except if they theme it to an animal climbing to the treetop, and the observation deck being themed to a view from the top of the tree. I can think of one benefit though: with the addition of a thrill ride, there will also be an addition of a calm and gentle observation tower which is another thing BGT needs (calm rides).chirped something about BGT regarding a PolerCoaster
I love the concept of a PolerCoaster, and I'm excited see it in Florida... but BGT just doesn't seem right for it. I'd rather have an Intamin Plug n'Play or a B&M/Intamin Giga than a PolerCoaster in Busch Gardens. Plus, if it has an inversion (like what they're saying), I'll be a little disappointed. I love inversions, but BGT has ENOUGH. We need AIRTIME! I also think the ride seems way to priced for BGT. If anything, I can see this amazing creation go up in I-Drive somewhere (possibly a project conducted by Merlin, or even one of the Fun Spot parks).
You never know though, this could very well be the rumored Gwazi replacement. I'm sure whatever comes, I'll enjoy it! But we'll see what happens in the next few weeks...
Stay tuned!
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Giga Coaster Coming to Busch Gardens Tampa?
I think a week or two ago, I talked about the future of Busch Gardens Tampa in terms of major investments. Screamscape just a few days ago reported this tidbit:
There is also three reasons why I think it would be a possible/smart strategy:
1. With BGT breaking the 300 ft limit with Falcon's Fury, it would make sense for them to build a 300 ft coaster
2. With Carowinds building a giga for 2015, having a giga at BGT would allow a nice "duel in the South" in terms of gigas. However, if Carowinds is going with B&M, I'd want BGT would go with Intamin (because a B&M would be too similar). Though if they were looking at Leviathan, maybe they might choose B&M. Either one would make me happy! :P
3. BGT also needs something to attract crowds heading to Universal for Diagon Alley in 2014, plus the rumored Jurassic Park expansion and King Kong attraction (mainly Diagon Alley). A simple hyper wouldn't do the trick, nor would a woodie (except if they went with RMC or Intamin and aimed for tallest wooden in the world). A giga, however, would do the trick.
4. We have enough inversions in Florida!! LOL I love inversions, but we need an airtime machine with nothing but gigantic hills!
I do wonder if this is really replacing Gwazi or not though. While I'd think Gwazi would go, given the rumors recently, Screamscape didn't actually mention about the giga replacing Gwazi. Additionally, they reported that BGT has opted to keep Gwazi for the time being (on "life support"):
I'm leaning logically towards either Gwazi's space or the old Jungala rumors. Bird Gardens needs a new attraction the most though so I'd prefer Gwazi's plot (though I'm probably the only one who likes Gwazi)! But we'll see how this goes! Stay tuned! :3
2015/2016 - Gigacoaster - Rumor - (10/7/13) According to a local area source members of the ride engineering department from Busch Gardens Tampa were spotted at Canada’s Wonderland over the weekend. While neither park is a stranger big rides, especially B&M coasters, the one big thing that you can find at Canada’s Wonderland and no where else in the world would be Leviathan, a B&M Gigacoaster. Is BGT ready to build the coaster coaster in Central Florida to break the 300 foot height limit? Stay tuned!I would go crazy over a giga, because Florida needs a great airtime machine, and this one will definitely satisfy it (more than ever)!
There is also three reasons why I think it would be a possible/smart strategy:
1. With BGT breaking the 300 ft limit with Falcon's Fury, it would make sense for them to build a 300 ft coaster
2. With Carowinds building a giga for 2015, having a giga at BGT would allow a nice "duel in the South" in terms of gigas. However, if Carowinds is going with B&M, I'd want BGT would go with Intamin (because a B&M would be too similar). Though if they were looking at Leviathan, maybe they might choose B&M. Either one would make me happy! :P
3. BGT also needs something to attract crowds heading to Universal for Diagon Alley in 2014, plus the rumored Jurassic Park expansion and King Kong attraction (mainly Diagon Alley). A simple hyper wouldn't do the trick, nor would a woodie (except if they went with RMC or Intamin and aimed for tallest wooden in the world). A giga, however, would do the trick.
4. We have enough inversions in Florida!! LOL I love inversions, but we need an airtime machine with nothing but gigantic hills!
I do wonder if this is really replacing Gwazi or not though. While I'd think Gwazi would go, given the rumors recently, Screamscape didn't actually mention about the giga replacing Gwazi. Additionally, they reported that BGT has opted to keep Gwazi for the time being (on "life support"):
???? - Gwazi Status Updates - (9/3/13) According to the latest crazy rumors about Gwazi, I've heard that they only expect to keep Gwazi up and running (or rather the half that is still running) for another couple of seasons before they give up and demolish it. I'm guessing this means that they have a long-term plan in place to build some kind of replacement attraction on or near the site, which means we may not see a new coaster in the park until 2016.So if Gwazi doesn't go, where will this new ride end up rising? There's always the old rumors of Jungala Phase II, with a coaster being built from there all the way to Kumba/Congo River Rapids (those rumors died out after the InBev situation in 2008 I believe). That rumor could rise again. Plus, there's the possibility of tearing out Rhino Rally for a themed area, with a giga heading to Kumba/Congo River Rapids and a dark ride, plus animal exhibits and a new train station. However, I don't think it will happen just yet (trust me, as much as I would love for it to happen. RR definitely needs to go).
Of course if this means that Gwazi is officially on "life support" until they are ready to replace it, if anything very costly were to come up in the form of maintenance over the next couple of years, we could see the park opt to simply close it down early. So get your last rides in while you can.
I'm leaning logically towards either Gwazi's space or the old Jungala rumors. Bird Gardens needs a new attraction the most though so I'd prefer Gwazi's plot (though I'm probably the only one who likes Gwazi)! But we'll see how this goes! Stay tuned! :3
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