picturesque scenes around his early track rides. This has now developed into multi-million dollar licensing deals that serve to marry the biggest and most exciting rides with some of the most lucrative global brands. Looking ahead, both manufacturers and operators were
reticent to offer any firm predictions regarding the future shape of the roller coaster industry. However - as has become clear over the past 125 years - it is precisely this not knowing that keeps us coming back for that Next Big Thrill. “It is not easy to foresee the new borders and much
will depend on the developments and discoveries of new components and applications - both technical and scientific,” said Demaria. “We can, however, assume that the new applications will seek to conjure specific emotions through factors such as the acceleration of departure, the speed and the most complicated of evolutions.” Bilsen continued: “With the current economic crisis it
“Licensing and branding will enhance the ride experience
since with the right branding a total experience is offered to the guest,” said Bilsen. “The very well-known brands offer a high marketing value. Although this mostly pays off for the parks, the original investment in theming and licensing will be more expensive and sometimes is a hurdle in the decision making process.”
The future’s bright, yet unclear
Since the first roller coaster patent was signed 125 years ago, this unique sector has gone from strength to strength. In terms of theming, LaMarcus Adna Thompson was quick to realise the benefits brought about by simply adding dark tunnels and painting
is very difficult to predict what will happen, as it depends on which type of investments are available, feasible and responsible. In the emerging markets we expect growth to continue and in the existing markets the parks will focus on positioning themselves to create a competitive edge. Affordable new and innovative roller coaster rides will always be interesting for any theme park.” “We think that advanced materials and technologies
will be extensively used for the roller coaster sector,” added Novikova. “This can be new lighting or illumination technologies, new decoration materials other than ‘old’ concrete, etc. We expect that 3D and 4D technologies will also be applied as specific trends in the roller coaster sector.” When asked about the future of roller coasters, Czibulka
said: “This indeed is the million dollar question! Like in past decades, we certainly will see further technological sophistication as well as new features and even more impressive performance data. At the same time the above mentioned trends will play a key role for the operators, when it comes to the purchase decision - sophistication/ spectacular/uniqueness appeal to a wide ridership and space efficiency.”
Viper, Six Flags America
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