So following on, here are ideas for what could be implemented for "scare zones" . I envisage these to be free to experience, and be focussed on atmosphere rather than jump scares - this would mean that they would have a broad appeal. I have come up with three zones that could complement their areas and use a similar number of actors as Mardi Gras. Considering I farted this out in under an hour, I hope Merlin or Towers have something up their sleeves!
Apocalypse 3000
This zone would be based on a Mad Max style aesthetic, loosely tied to the Nemesis story. As well as some roaming actors, I would have a rock / metal band set up to perform on a stage on top of the games unit. Theming could be limited to banners and barrels, although lighting towers would also enhance the rock concert atmosphere I imagine for this zone
The Welcoming
The most family friendly of zones, I would have theming elements from the original maze incorporated into this area, and actors creating the kind of village festival atmosphere that we saw at the rides opening. Live drumming would be a part of the atmosphere for this one. This would be the least expensive to achieve as we know Towers rarely throw out their theming and costumes
Undergrowth : Roots of Evil
This zone would play on the forest setting, with actors disguised as plants (if anyone experiences the Seeds of Extinction maze at HHN you get the idea). I would achieve the atmosphere here by rigging camouflage above areas of the lower portion of Dark Forest, with smoke machines, lighting, and additional set pieces filling the space. This zone would be going for a creepy atmosphere rather than jump scares. I was unable to find a way to have alternate routes to Thirteen and Rita within the DF scarezone, however it wouldn't be difficult to have actors focussed away from their entrances - the theme I have chosen it would work better for the actors to stay close to the central planted area!
Areas like these, alongside the existing line up, would really help the event to be enjoyable for those who feel paid mazes are a rip off alongside the already high park entry price, as well as offer less intense scare experiences. What do you think?