Just noticed this from an article published in 1999, posted by TheMan in the Farce-Track topic.
(Which can be seen here.)
But this brings up a broader issue - what does Alton provide as queue line entertainment? And do you think it's really necessary? It's okay plonking in a few TV's to explain the story, (a la Sub Terra) but on a bright day, they're hardly visible and the audio is pretty dire. Plus your average guest pays little attention anyway! I feel The Smiler is a step in the right direction with lots of ride-queue interactivity and a strong emphasis on playing the game as a way to pass the time - a concept which should prove to be effective now most people carry around a smart phone in their pockets. But something as simple as a few QR codes or augmented reality objects could make queuing slightly less of a drag.
(Which can be seen here.)
Did the guns ever materialise? I don't remember ever seeing them.PR Newswire said:In addition to the "Virtual Queue", Alton Towers is investing a further £1 million on queue line entertainment including a water based quiz at the Log Flume, TV screens at the Black Hole, water blasters by Ripsaw, and fun activities for toddlers at Squirrel Nutty.
But this brings up a broader issue - what does Alton provide as queue line entertainment? And do you think it's really necessary? It's okay plonking in a few TV's to explain the story, (a la Sub Terra) but on a bright day, they're hardly visible and the audio is pretty dire. Plus your average guest pays little attention anyway! I feel The Smiler is a step in the right direction with lots of ride-queue interactivity and a strong emphasis on playing the game as a way to pass the time - a concept which should prove to be effective now most people carry around a smart phone in their pockets. But something as simple as a few QR codes or augmented reality objects could make queuing slightly less of a drag.