Six Flags using Oculus-powered Samsung Gear VR for virtual reality roller coasters

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Here's the deal folks -- I am scared of some amusement park rides. Put me on an intense roller coaster and I will fill with anxiety and probably weep like a baby. I know I am not alone in this regard -- I see other fearful men and women at these parks.

Today, Samsung announces a partnership with Six Flags that could make some roller coasters even more exciting. You see, Six Flags will be leveraging the Oculus-powered Samsung Gear VR for virtual reality roller coasters. The big question is, will wearing a VR mask while on a roller coaster make it even more scary for those with ride-anxiety, or could it alleviate the problem?

"In partnership with Samsung, Six Flags is taking its signature brand of thrills to the next level and beyond in fully immersive, virtual riding experiences using Samsung Gear VR. Some of Six Flags' most popular coasters will be equipped to allow riders wearing Samsung Gear VR headsets to feel the heart-pumping adrenaline of steep drops, inverted loops and powerful twists and turns as gyros, accelerometers and proximity sensors synchronize all of the action in an incredibly realistic 360-degree virtual reality world", says Samsung.

Marc Mathieu, chief marketing officer at Samsung Electronics America explains, "what makes this partnership so compelling for consumers and the broader tech industry alike is that both companies are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible -- and bringing a VR coaster to life is certainly a new and thrilling proposition. Now, people can be immersed into a totally new universe while riding a roller coaster, powered by Samsung Gear VR virtual reality devices. This transforms the modern roller coaster into a totally new, one of a kind sensorial experience – powered by technology. We are excited to work with the premiere brand in theme parks to bring Samsung’s VR technology to nine Six Flags locations across the U.S."

Samsung shares the following VR coasters and locations.

  • Shock Wave at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington, opening March 10 to Season Pass Holders as a special sneak preview
  • Dare Devil Dive at Six Flags Over Georgia outside of Atlanta, opening March 12 to Season Pass Holders as a special sneak preview
  • The New Revolution at Six Flags Magic Mountain near Los Angeles, opening March 26 to Season Pass Holders as a special sneak preview
  • Ninja at Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka
  • Steamin' Demon at The Great Escape in Lake George, New York and
    Goliath at La Ronde in Montreal
  • SUPERMAN Krypton Coaster at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio
  • SUPERMAN The Ride at Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts
  • SUPERMAN Ride of Steel at Six Flags America in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

Believe it or not, I think adding VR to these roller coasters can make it less nerve-racking for those with ride-anxiety. While it won't stop people from feeling the movements, it can enable them to see a more calming environment during the ride.

More importantly, however, it should greatly enhance the experience for those that love the thrill of a wild roller coaster. Potentially, someone could ride the same ride over and over -- while changing the VR imagery each time -- so that it feels like a new and fresh experience every time. That is very clever.

Do you think VR can improve the roller coaster experience, or will it hurt it? Tell me in the comments.

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