August 23, 2011

Gamer Tuesday: DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park

The Disney theme parks are a staple of American pop culture. This isn't without reason thanks to the Disney Company's dedication to bringing innovative and emotionally engaging attractions to tourists from around the world. Some are classic dark rides that tell classic Disney stories; others are elaborate stage shows that bring together talent from all corners of the globe.

Today I will talk about how gaming has been an important part of the Disney theme park experience, but most notably in the place known as DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park. With video games being such a popular component of our childhoods it should come as no surprise that Disney Imagineers would try to create a magical video game experience that transports players to its Disney worlds. DisneyQuest is the place where you can find the latest in 3D gaming technology along with the classic arcade games of yesteryear.

DisneyQuest is located at the Downtown Disney Area and is divided into five flours. The floors feature different attractions, some new, other classic games. One of these is 'Aladdin's Magic Carpet Ride.' The flying carpet scenes in Aladdin are some of the most popular thanks to the intensity and magic of the animation. So it's no surprise that when trying to create a simulation game based on Aladdin, the flying carpet scenes were the first to receive virtual treatment.

If players are feeling a little creative, they can participate in CyberSpace Mountain, hosted by none other than Bill Nye the Science Guy. Players can create their own rollercoaster ride with the assistance of the famed scientist and then ride it in a simulator cabinet. If creation isn't a player's forte, and they are more into action gameplay, they can play 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Buccaneer Gold.' This game is a pirate ship simulator where players must fight off other pirates in order to obtain sacred treasure.

The world of Disney Pixar's Toy Story is no stranger to video game adaptations, whether it's for home consoles or as part of a major Disney theme park attraction (as is the case with 'Toy Story Midway Mania'). DisneyQuest features a Toy Story themed attraction called 'Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters' where guests can ride a bumper car spaceship and try to destroy enemies with their blasters.

If guests are still feeling creative after their day of virtual thrills, they can try their hand at animation with 'Animation Academy,' where they can learn how to draw Disney characters step and step. After experiencing Disney animation, guests take go down the wild virtual rivers in 'Virtual Jungle Cruise' as they experience the dinosaur age. This is a 4D attraction, which means guests may get splashed on!

DisneyQuest also features a classic game room for players yearning for gaming's past. The room includes arcade titles such as Pac-Man, TRON, Donkey Kong, Frogger and many, many more.

That is DisneyQuest in a nutshell. If you are a gamer as well as a big Disney fan then it is recommended that you check it out when you are at Disney Downtown. The entrance fee is $36 to $42. Some attractions have height restrictions.