World's First Virtual Reality Roller Coaster

by Startacus Admin

The World’s First Virtual Reality Roller Coaster

Virtual reality is one of the most rapidly developing areas of technology.  No surprise then, that the number of startups involved in the growth, implementation, and integration of this one-time mainstay of the science fiction genre has shown similar increases in recent years.  But it isn’t just highly ambitious and innovative startups seeking out ways to utilise the recent upswing in VR fascination, many well-established brands have identified the technologies potential to lend a competitive edge.

One such big player is UK amusement park Alton Towers, which will launch the world’s first virtual reality rollercoaster in April 2016.    

Alton Towers VR Launch

The evocatively named Galactica will combine the traditional experience of being projected around a roller coaster track with the less familiar sensation of soaring into space.  Passengers onboard Galactica will adorn VR headsets and be strapped in for a ride quite unlike anything else currently available to thrill-seekers… unless you happen to be an astronaut on your way to the International Space Station.  On the announcement, marketing director for Alton Towers  Gill Riley said  

"Tim Peake captured the imagination of millions of Brits last year when he set off on his mission to the International Space Station -- and now our visitors can become astronauts too,"

“There is nowhere else in the world that people can experience the feeling of a flying roller coaster combined with soaring through the universe. For two minutes, our guests will be transported into space and we believe Galactica showcases the future for theme parks around the world.

Check out the video below which will give you some sense of what to expect along the 840m track.

We wonder what other household names will be dipping their toe into the waters of VR in the coming years?

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Published on: 13th January 2016