Alton Towers have finally revealed the true identity of their new-for-2010 £15million rollercoaster attraction as “Thirteen”. The number, which has many connotations of “fear” and “unluckiness”, will presumably be used in all marketing henceforth.
Until today, the name has been kept top secret from all but a few management staff at Alton Towers Resort and ride designers, and it has been the subject of intense debate across the international theme park community.
In a press release, Alton Towers have confirmed many rumours which have been speculated over the course of the past 18 months including the theme, an ancient crypt in a dark forest. They claim that guests “will be invited to take a petrifying ride on Thirteen, venturing into the seemingly living and breathing dark forest. There they will face a unknown horror that has been unleashed from the ancient crypt”.
The ride will feature a mixture of physical and psychological fear – a “psychoaster”, to create an experience that is unique. Some of the technology used on the rollercoaster will be the first of its kind in the world. John Wardley, who is famed for being the driving force behind Nemesis, Oblivion, Air, Haunted House and more at Alton Towers along with rides such as Dragon Khan at PortAventura, has said that the ride will “open up a whole new concept for theme park rides”. The resort claim that Thirteen is set to cement “Alton Towers Resort’s reputation as the No. 1 destination for thrill and fear addicts around the world”.
Clearly, with such statements, Alton Towers expect this ride to have a major impact on the appeal of the theme park after 4 seasons of pure family focus – the last thrill investment being Rita – Queen of Speed (which is also set to change for 2010) in 2005. Of course, the off-the-wall marketing wheels are also in motion and the park have stated that the ride will be available to those aged 16-55 and signed a declaration. Clearly, these statements are most unlikely to happen for real.
Thirteen is expected to open at the Alton Towers Resort on March 20th, 2010 and we look forward to bringing you further news as it is received over the next 3 months as we count down to the biggest day at Alton Towers for many years!
