Media-based attraction company Holovis and thrill ride company S&S-Sansei Technologies have announced a design and patent for the world’s first Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster.

The new technology and scalable solution is set to extend and develop the roller coaster experience. They will take the coaster experience from a short, dynamic ride through to a fully engaging story-driven experience.

Continuing the Thrill

The Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster starts with a narrative. This will flow through a highly themed media and interactive preshow. Guests will then board what initially might look like a traditional dark ride. The ride vehicle will then enter a 360° dome. Rich media will then completely surround the guests, with no need for awkward VR headsets or 3D glasses.

With S&S-Sansei Technologies’ expertise in roller coaster and elevator systems added to the unique turn-key systems and creative skills of the Holovis Attractions and Holovis Media teams, the whole ride will be a unique and unforgettable experience.

Stuart Hetherington, CEO of Holovis said, “Together with S&S-Sansei Technologies, we have paralleled the key structure of narrative based entertainment and applied it to the physical coaster experience, something that has never been done before in this way. Coasters have long been the traditional form of physical and thrilling entertainment. However, typically the patterns of excitement peak at the highest point. This is usually towards the beginning, then drop as there is no connected narrative to continue the thrill.

“We are adding creative-led emotive story and journey into the design of the Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster. This ensures a shared immersive experience. We are creating a new genre in coaster solutions. This ensures that as physical boundaries are reached, coaster technology can evolve into completely new attractions.”

The Immersive Elevator MediaCoaster

“Wrapping of coaster sections with physical screens and lighting effects has been done effectively for a long time, but the patented, storytelling capability now offered by S&S-Sansei Technologies and Holovis allows the immersive experience to physically move with a moving vehicle, creating a more dynamic, immersive experience for guests. We’re combining the thrill of a death-defying drop tower and extreme coaster technology with truly immersive media for a unique next-generation experience.

“This scalable design extends the overall ride time. It also allows for complete customization of the guest experience in the elevator section before the guests realize they are about to drop back into the real world, thus heightening the thrill levels even more.”

Tim Timco, CEO and President of S&S-Sansei Technologies said, “S&S is very pleased that our partnership with Holovis will now allow us to bring the Immersive Elevator MediaCoasters to the amusement industry.

“We believe the dynamic, immersive experience of this new attraction will have a tremendous impact on the industry. It will provide a uniquely thrilling, memorable experience that will draw people looking for the ultimate combination of intense immersion and physical thrill.”