Six Flags America Unveils 'Virtual Reality' Roller Coaster

UPPER MARLBORO, MD — Six Flags America is unveiling a new alien invasion-themed virtual reality roller coaster on April 1.

Six Flags partnered with Samsung to introduce the Galactic Attack VR coaster, which will enable riders to "decide how to save the planet from an alien drone invasions," according to a Six Flags statement.

"When guests board the coaster and don their Samsung Gear VR headsets, they will be introduced to the device’s pass-through camera functionality, instantly making riders aware of their surroundings, by allowing them to see the 'real world,' including the person seated next to them— along with virtual content," the statement reads. "As they get settled into the ride, a heads up display overlay on the pass-through camera view will show data like current status of weaponry, time codes, fuel cells, and a countdown clock.

"Cresting the lift hill, a massive, swirling wormhole comes into view. As riders drop at high speeds, the mixed reality view changes to a completely immersive, virtual reality environment and a fighter spaceship cockpit materializes and envelops the riders into a tunnel of light," it continues. "At the bottom of the first hill, riders are launched into the middle of a space battle, coming under attack from flying drones firing lasers and missiles. After swinging through tight channels, narrowly dodging drones and artillery fire, riders are brought into one of three drone bays, each of which offer a completely different gaming experience and three different endings."

Only Season Pass holders will be able to access Galactic Attack on opening weekend, April 1 and 2, between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The ride will open to all guests after 1 p.m.. The ride will be available for a limited time this spring.

For more information, visit Six Flags America.

Image via Six Flags