Escape From Gringotts: A Frankenstein Custom Coaster?!

Ok So Today I wanted to talk about quite possibly my favourite theme park experience out there...

Now I call it an 'Experience' as apposed to an attraction, as that is what it truly is.

Its multi-levels of immersive story telling and the various shows and elements combined all together ( even before you get to the ride) makes this not just one single ride, but more an incredibly rich experience.

So I wanted to break this down and just give it all the glory it deserves..

 Line

The first experience any theme park goer must 'endure' is the waiting.... Expect here.. 

Moving into one of the most impressive set pieces out there, is gringotts bank. 

With so much to look at, the characters, the architecture, truly takes you away from the real world.. 

This is not a line, more a homage to the movies and wonderful world of HP. 

I honestly can remember the very first time I stepped foot into the bank, I was speechless, gasping and grinning from ear to ear! 

Pre-show 

Here is where universal hit the mark, to an enthusiast wanting to use technical terminology, once through the gringotts and into the passage towards the vaults, you enter a selection of pre -shows. 

But It's hard to even call it that! 

The 'Movie' section uses an mixture of projection mixed with real set pieces, to create the illusion that the characters are really in the room, its so impressive, and fitting for the world. 

The lift ride 'Down' to the vaults, again, a lovely touch, that really was totally un-needed. But Universal felt like adding that extra special touch... 

before entering the vaults and the ride station... I have never in my life been more immersed and lost in a ride station! 

Its worth pointing out, that at this point, we have already experienced 3 attractions. A animatronic show, a projection movie and a motion simulator.... All before we have experienced the main feature! 

Ride

Ok so hear is where I want to discuss my main question... What exactly is this ride?! 

It combines elements of sim, 4D, track switches, launches, of course the famous drop, screens and set pieces galore! 

It's in one sense a hybrid between Spiderman / transformers, but then combines elements of a coaster?! 

So is it a coaster? can we call this multi - element filled ride a 'coaster'. This almost feels like a down grade... a branding... slap the word coaster on here because it uses a track... 

I don't believe this does it justice... Its mish mash of everything, a beautiful Frankenstein of technology and showmanship! 

Wrap Up

This is so much more than a coaster.... it really is the most impressive, overwhelmingly stunning ride experience out there! 

Have you been on it? Seen another attraction that matches up? comment below or get in touch on our insta: @coastersamblog

Until Next Time, 

See Ya! 

Sam x