Experience the future of theme park design as UK’s first global theme park takes shape, bringing immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology to thrill-seekers of all ages.
Building an iconic rollercoaster is no easy feat. According to Andy Sinclair-Harris, creative director at Katapult, what matters most is not the speed or height of the ride, but rather the depth of storytelling that immerses riders in the experience. A good example of this is ‘Universal’s Harry-Potter-themed rollercoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure’ , which tells a compelling story through its setting and characters.
Roller coasters have a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
The first roller coaster, 'Russian Mountains,' was built in Russia in 1784.
Modern roller coasters feature advanced technology, including hydraulic launches and magnetic brakes.
The tallest roller coaster, Kingda Ka, stands at 456 feet tall, while the fastest, Formula Rossa, reaches speeds of up to 150 mph.
Roller coasters are designed with safety features, such as seat belts and harnesses, to ensure a thrilling experience for riders.
The Art of Cohesion
Joseph Bright, CEO at Scruffy Dog, emphasizes the importance of cohesion in theme park design. ‘Every element must serve the wider guest story,’ he says. This means that rides are often developed as storytelling tools within a specific genre or world, rather than standalone attractions. The size and layout of rollercoasters, for instance, are influenced by factors such as crowd capacity and desired ride experience.
Theme parks have undergone significant transformations since their inception.
Initially, they featured simple attractions and landscaping.
With advancements in technology, modern theme parks incorporate elaborate theming, immersive experiences, and record-breaking roller coasters.
The incorporation of cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality has further enhanced the visitor experience.
Statistics show that the global theme park industry has grown by 10% annually over the past decade, with an estimated 1.2 billion visitors in 2022.
The Power of Flat Rides
Flat rides, which cater to less thrill-seeking crowds, play a crucial role in balancing out the park’s offerings. These smaller rides can be bought off the shelf from manufacturers and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for guests. According to Dennis Speigel, founder of International Theme Park Services , these rides often reach speeds between 70-90mph on their first drop.
Designing an Immersive Experience
When it comes to designing an immersive experience, every detail matters. From the route to the ride to the surrounding environment, theme park designers must consider how each element contributes to the overall story. Andy Sinclair-Harris stresses the importance of ‘budget as a thing’ during the initial discussions, allowing designers to let their imagination run wild.
Immersive experiences combine technology, art, and storytelling to create engaging and interactive environments.
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) are key components of immersive experiences.
These technologies transport users into new worlds, allowing them to interact with digital objects and environments in a natural way.
According to a study, 71% of consumers prefer immersive content over traditional forms of entertainment.
Immersive experiences have applications in education, healthcare, and marketing, revolutionizing the way we learn, heal, and engage with products.
The Role of Audio and Scent in Immersion
Even subtle elements like audio, scent, and queue lines can play a significant role in creating an immersive experience. According to Joseph Bright, these details can help transport guests into the world of the theme park. As ‘Justin Garvanovic, founder of the European Coaster Club, ‘ notes, ‘there’s tons of subtle stuff going on in the background’_ that can enhance or detract from the overall experience.
A Masterplan for Success
The design phase is crucial in determining the success of a theme park. A masterplan configures how attractions, pathways, and amenities fit into the space, often influencing crowd flow and queuing times. Robbie Jones, insights director at Katapult, notes that some parks employ the ‘hub and spoke’ layout, with a central gathering point radiating out to different lands.
The Final Touches
Finally, theme park designers must consider the finishing touches that bring their vision to life. From trees and artificial rock to audio and scent effects, every element is carefully considered to maintain the illusion of an immersive world. As Robbie Jones notes, ‘there’s tons of subtle stuff going on in the background’ that can enhance or detract from the overall experience.
The Story Behind the Theme Park
At its core, a theme park is a story waiting to be told. From the design phase to the final touches, every element contributes to the narrative that unfolds before guests. By understanding the art of cohesion, immersion, and attention to detail, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into creating these magical worlds.
