RE: Verbolten
Alrighty then, time for some
objective observations...
Firstly, I'm stoked for Verbolten. It introduces a different take on the roller coaster experience we are used to enjoying at BG, now for a wider audience. I think both adults, kids, and seasoned enthusiasts alike will enjoy this ride (Heck,I'm 24, and after I've ridden the big ones repeatedly, I'm not ashamed that I head over to Grover's Alpine Adventure for a laugh or two

). Fact is, many, many kids can't handle Alpengeist, shy away from Griffon's 1st drop, and have a hard time with Apollo by the time the Helix comes up. Loch Ness is acceptable, but after that, the coaster experience for them is over. Yes Kings Dominion has a few rides similar to Verbolten in its *perceived* intensity (Back Lot Stunt Coaster), offset by several other major attractions like Intimidator, but Busch only has 4 other "biggies" and then Verbolten, so it makes the announcement of Verbolten and its stats seem somewhat underwhelming considering the other options we have.
Secondly, until I see an animated video of the entire ride, or even ride it for the first time, I'll gladly not flood this forum with complaints. SFA in Maryland is getting a heavily used, "New for 1991 B&M Standup," renamed and rethemed, and while cool in it's own right, is a recycled effort. We are getting a heavily themed, one-of-a-kind, all new installment that will surely gain attention from a wide variety of people. There is always 2013 and beyond of the B&M Flyer, B&M Wing Coaster, or an unknown "enthusiasts" coaster that will ease the "pain" of the 53mph Verbolten. This ride has potential, both to be amazing or underwhelming, just like MT or EiTA, but until we are strapped in the seat, with thumbs up in the air, and the green "Go" button flashing on the podiums in April 2012, we are lingering aimlessly in the roller coaster pipe dream of little to no information to form an educated opinion.
Lastly, I actually like the logo, the name, and the suffix of "Brave the Black Forest." Afterall, we could have been give "Uber Bahn," "Black Forest Turbo" or NOTHING for 2012 except a new stuffed animal whack-a-mole stand and let MT be the latest attraction for a whole season.
I for one, will gladly grin and bear Verbolten on that hopefully sunny day in April. Let the teaser site leaks begin!