Theming contributes to the ride experience

Each year we make presentations to local school kids about the physics of roller coasters and we have been impressed with their insights about the rides. This year, we shared a physics discussion with third graders at Butterfield School in Libertyville and 5th graders at St. Gilbert’s School in Grayslake, based on the new X Flight roller coaster at nearby Six Flags Great America. Their experience of riding coasters has been strongly influenced by the theming and environment that surrounds the coaster.

When we consider the ride and its environment, we utilize 3D modeling to visualize the ride before it is even built and to plan and coordinate the sequence of the effects with the roller coaster. An extreme rider experience is achieved with X Flight when it speeds toward a control tower structure, before making a last-minute vertical flip to penetrate a narrow keyhole in the tower. The coaster then dives toward the ground and seems to skim the surface of a pond before pulling up at the last minute. Vapor cones provide the effect to give the riders and onlookers the impression that they have skimmed the pond’s surface. Both of these are examples of theming and environment that contribute to an exciting ride experience.

X Flight opens to the public on May 16 only at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee.