How Much Theming Is Enough?

[GrandpaD]

I thought we had (albeit it sure got ugly in places) a good conversation regarding theming in the MMXX thread. So, instead of continuing an off-topic slant in that thread, I thought we could conceptualize here.

As a summation, it appeared the consensus was BGW needs to look at "A Good Place" (I love that show) between Alpengeist and Invadr and not to try to go "full-Disney" as with Verbolten.

Theming doesn't have to be expensive, just well executed. Here's a report of Copperhead Strike's opening. Scroll to the last half for pictures of their theming. It's not too expensive...but it's well executed. It sets the story without high tech mumbo-jumbo. Heck, there's even stencils on a wood fence (looking at you, Invadr).

But, I offer this opinion. A backstory needs theming. But theming doesn't necessarily need a backstory. If you go through the trouble of concocting a story, then you best, by darned, be prepared to tell it. Conversely, if it's just to "fit into the area's ambiance" you don't need to have a story. Just make the effort to truly make it fit.

Example (going by my guess of the MMXX coaster name)- If you concoct a story that Mercury needs to fly to deliver a message of an impending Gaul invasion, you best be prepared to visually theme this hard core so, by the time they board, they are ready to deliver that damned message!

But, if you're just saying "Take wing with Mercury!", then nice Roman architecture with (perhaps) a rooftop golden statue of Mercury would, IMHO, suffice. Think Caesars Palace with a coaster.

I'm certain there's other ideas...let's conceptualize!

 

[SLC Headache]

I hold larger coasters to lower theming standards. Usually, you're going way too fast to appreciate theming elements.

I disagree about Verbolten being highly themed. Its theming standard is slightly behind that of Kings Island coasters like Adventure Express and Mystic Timbers, let alone anything Disney/Universal. Making the ride so fast and forceful probably allowed them to get away with a minimalist show building like Flight of Fear.

 

[Applesauce]

I'm pretty sure most of the theming discussion was more about queue. You can still see enough in verbolten when you're flying by. It's not like you're going to fast not able to see anything. It's like Rock n' Roller coaster. Just giant cutouts of random shapes until you get to the drop.

I'd argue that RnR is a lot harder to see things because you want to actually take in the random street signs you see, versus Bolt which is random shapes to make it look like you're moving crazily.

Even still a nicely done tunnel or lift adds to a larger themed coaster experience, versus just a plain empty parking lot coaster. See: Flight of Fear vs say... Dominator? (I really want to put volcano down. But I'm not sure it counts bc of the mountain. Even though after the launch the rest is just a parking lot coaster.)

 

[GrandpaD]

I agree. When you're taking about coasters, it's the immediate surroundings, the queue building, etc. Visuals and sound. Sure, maybe somewhere along the actual ride there might be a little something, but mostly it's telling/setting the story as you approach and enter.

 

[BGWnut]

To me for a coaster I really want the cars to contribute. I think having a themed queue and then generic cars can kind of kill it.

Edit: however I am perfectly happy with theming to the queue house and some landscaping. It doesn't need to extravagant. Just tie the coaster into the larger themed area it's in.

 

[belsaas]

On the rare occasions I go through the extended queue on Loch Ness Monster, I'm always glad to see the theming and sound effects are still around. That combined with the renewed strobe and roar are enough to tell a story without it having to be super elaborate.

 

[GrandpaD]

To me for a coaster I really want the cars to contribute. I think having a themed queue and then generic cars can kind of kill it.

Edit: however I am perfectly happy with theming to the queue house and some landscaping. It doesn't need to extravagant. Just tie the coaster into the larger themed area it's in.

No question. If they don't theme the trains at MMXX....grrrrr.


Soaring with Dragon themed train.

 

[SukaUniFl]

I really enjoy theming at the parks, and one thing I love the most is when there is a story to it and even how back in the days of BGW even the TM's were part of the story with the costume they had to wear. The old days of BGW was amazing and one reason why I love the park and worked at BGW for a few years. I hope there is some theme even if it is just the que and entrance and maybe the station. Throw in some broken Roman columns and statues that are part of whatever name it gets, or whatever else is coming. As for theming I do believe BGW are being lazy to a point, and the reason for that is they probably think why put theming in, when most people don't even look at it. I just hope it don't look like an eye sore like Tempesto (I miss working at Tempesto the year it opened) Now if they wanted or have It in the budget could you imagine if MMXX was themed like TARON( I would geek out)

 

[Logang]

I only really care about theming at BGW because it totes itself as more than just your average amusement park. They always win "worlds most beautiful park," but I wouldn't have given them that title for the last few years. They've lost their drive it feels like to make this park special. Last year was the first time in over a decade I hadn't gone to the park at all during the season. I just don't feel like spending $70 for a day there when I can pay half that an hour up the road. Themeing is what separates BGW from KD, and they have been noticeably slacking.

 

[GrandpaD]

As for theming I do believe BGW are being lazy to a point, and the reason for that is they probably think why put theming in, when most people don't even look at it. I just hope it don't look like an eye sore like Tempesto (I miss working at Tempesto the year it opened) Now if they wanted or have It in the budget could you imagine if MMXX was themed like TARON( I would geek out)

Hopefully, with the competition both North and South stepping up their game, BGW/SEAS will open their eyes (and wallets) to "complete" an attraction. And I doubt we'll ever see the level of theming of Taron/Phantasialand...but, like you, I can dream.

 

[SukaUniFl]

Hopefully, with the competition both North and South stepping up their game, BGW/SEAS will open their eyes (and wallets) to "complete" an attraction. And I doubt we'll ever see the level of theming of Taron/Phantasialand...but, like you, I can dream.

Yup and I do believe It was Steven Spielberg who said at one time "I Dream For A Living" and yes they need to open their eyes and wallets and make it not only a fun ride but something very unique and new, so that its not just an attraction it would or could be an adventure. Plus, it would be amazing if they did the same level of theming of Taron/Phantasialand (which I get to go to in June) but could you imagine if MMXX would look like these pics courtesy of Phantasialand. Such an amazing job they do with the themes of the park, and I think besides Taron I am more excited to see the new Steam Punk area with the Vekoma flyer. So with that there is never too much theming, it is just maybe besides BGW from being a bit lazy and other parks being lazy too with theming, I think maybe they need to bring some fresh creative design people on board. And maybe besides the theming making more immersive ideas to the parks. My favorite area where I do feel immersive at BGW is probably Killarney 1st & DaVinci's Garden

 

[GrandpaD]

Oh, I've seen the pics. I'd love to see it in person. But I'm fearful we're just gonna get an Invadr effort here based on cutbacks we've seen in the plans already. So, anything beyond that will surprise me.