Oblivion
Don't Look Down!
Drop into the X-Sector, and experience the ultimate in 90s thrills: a 180ft near-vertical drop into Oblivion.
Throughout the queue line, the Lord of Darkness taunts would be riders with proclamations that the ride is perfectly safe, whilst his opposite number muses whether or not all riders reappear after dropping into Oblivion's pit.
Of all the coasters at Alton Towers, Oblivion is arguably most often associated with Alton Towers in popular culture, inspired by the ride's simulation of the primal fear of falling.
It may be something of a one-trick pony, but it performs that trick immaculately.
Attraction History
Opened in 1998, Oblivion was anticipated to be the world's most intense and nerve shattering ride. Needless to say, those who followed the development and construction of the ride were not disappointed!
During construction the whole area was closed off, and all attractions, with the exception of the Black Hole, were removed. Over time a gaping hole appeared in the ground, growing deeper and deeper, as an ominous security guard patrolled the perimeter, zero-ing in on any guest foolhardy to spend too long staring at the construction. Only time would tell what was destined to rise beyond the fences, and drop into the pit below.
In 1998, X-Sector opened, home to Enterprise, Black Hole, Energiser, and its newest addition: Oblivion. This menacing steel giant attracted attention from press and guests the world over, who all flocked to Alton Towers to experience the vertical free-fall into Oblivion.
Whilst boasting claims to the title of "World's First Vertical Drop Rollercoaster" Oblivion is actually at an angle of 87.5 degrees, and not 90 degrees. However, don't take this lightly as it is still one of the most terrifying rides you will ever encounter.
Oblivion hasn't been without its controversy over the year, and after several years of operation, a noise abatement order was imposed on the operation of the ride resulting in the 'top of the drop' on ride audio "Don't look down!" having to be removed.
In slightly less serious controversy, 2011 saw the introduction of Fanta sponsorship, which many felt detracted from the ride's theme, with slogans such as "Looking Down Is The Fun Part" and "More Fanta, Less Serious". The more noticeable posters and wall coverings from the sponsorship were removed from the ride and its area a few months later, following numerous complaints about the obtrusive nature of the brand.
For the 2013 season, Oblivion was given a new coat of paint and a deep clean, ready for the opening of X-Sector's newest resident, The Smiler.
Attraction Stats
Timeline
Attraction Extras
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Fasttrack Available | |
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Souvenir Photo Available |
