In January VRFocus reported on a new ride being designed by mentalist Derren Brown called Ghost Train. The ride features the HTC Vive head-mounted display (HMD) and opens this month on 21st July.
The ride is a multi-sensory theme park experience, featuring virtual reality (VR), live action, 4D special effects, grand illusion and physical transit.
Set in a Victorian train carriage modelled on a 1903 North Eastern Railway clerestory bogie composite coach No.3071, suspended in a 2,306 metre square warehouse, Ghost Train is rated PG13 and each passenger will get to enjoy their own personal experience.
Alongside VR, inside the carriage there will be vibrating floor plates, self-steaming windows and more to play with guests minds.
The back story to the experience revolves around a company called Sub Core Energy that’s been drilling into the earth’s core. As visitors queue, they pass through infection check points hinting at toxic gas leaks and the results of the company’s drilling.
Derren Brown said in a statement: “I’m thrilled that the ghost train is finally launching to the public and everyone will be able to experience what I’ve been working on behind the scenes over the last three years. This has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve undertaken, but without doubt the most enjoyable. I can’t wait to see the public’s reaction after unleashing this wonderfully twisted experience for the world to enjoy.
“From training the actors to shovelling coal under the suspended Ghost Train, this experience with the team at Merlin Magic Making and Thorpe Park has been a perpetual delight.”
While Mike Vallis, Divisional Director of Thorpe Park Resort commented:”We’re thrilled to announce the opening of Derren Brown’s Ghost Train. This is a true world-first attraction and believe this development is a daring and exciting step into a new realm for theme park attractions around the world. The attraction is a full assault on guests’ senses and will play with their minds – in an original and fully-immersive experience. We ask that guests keep their experience secret, so that other visitors are also allowed to take their journey unaware of the shocks that lie behind the doors once they board the Ghost Train.”
Thorpe Park tickets start from £27.99 GBP and can be book here. For all the latest VR news keep reading VRFocus.
