Attractions Becoming Cheap, Themed Mess?

[Mrs.Toad]

Nice thoughts everyone. May I just add that some of the longest standing rides were original ideas that actually inspired later movies (Pirates) and have stood the test of time.

It seems these well thought out rides are actually better long term investments than slapping Nemo on a ride and letting the ride name do the drawing instead of the content.

Pirates
Haunted mansion
Splash mountain
SpaceMountain

I know some of those have back stories, but they are largely stand alone rides, done absolutely the right way down to the last detail and are still great today.

Someone mentioned tower of terror.....Tower of Terror is a perfect example of subtly blending an established backstory with an incredibly detailed ride that will last 40-50 years. Again, a product of a more parks oriented CEO.

Trouble is, parks are making record profits so management knows the consumer is well, consuming. I just can't help but think it could be so much more. Maybe I'm wrong, but I doubt it.

Yup, TOT is a winner. They managed to create something amazing, lasting, and covered many bases. It contributed to the old Hollywood focus of the front parts of the park and Sunset Boulevard. I remember when it opened and I was thinking, Awesome, a creation like this, can't wait to see what is next. And then…well….

 

[graphite1326]

One Big Pile of Dino Diarrhea..

I agree

 

[Fable McCloud]

For me it's about the overall experience of the ride. If the theming doesn't work with the ride, it all goes downhill. More immersive themed rides are needed, like my favorite attraction HM.

When I first went to WDW I thought Pirates was gonna be my favorite, and while it was great and playing spot Jack Sparrow was fun for my mom, HM blew me away. The theming from outside to inside, every detail, just made it the best. I pretty much plan my vacations around how much I miss the Mansion.

THAT's how you make an impact and bring back the guests. Quality over quantity. If they could go back to those super atmospheric rides, like the Mountains of MK, HM and ToT, there'd be more people who would come back for repeat rides.

 

[elfshadowreaper]

I'm sick of current pop culture theming now. I fell in love with Mystic Manor when I heard about it. It has nothing to do with anything Disney(at least not that I've heard of). They created a cute character and made what looks to be a great ride. I really hope I get to HKDL one day so I can ride it. Unfortunately the franchises sell more than new ideas do. I worry what the future holds for Haunted Mansion, IASW and other rides that don't have a pop culture skin. All it'll take is a Hollywood blockbuster(and almost a straight to DVD movie for Pixie Hollow before they pulled the plug).