Loaded Couch Potatoes

Several theme park news and rumor sites have been reporting a new version of Star Tours is in development for Disneyland, Disney World, and Tokyo Disney.  (possible spoilers ahead)

Several sources have reported that the project is no longer on hold, and already in development.  Apparently we have the Oriental Land Company (the owners of Tokyo Disney) to thank, since they want their own version of Star Tours and have contributed a lot of money to the project.  The source at Theme Park Insider confirmed rumors  that the new Star Tours will be in 3D and have extensive in-cabin effects.  What kind of in-cabin effects you ask?  Well it sounds like they will be borrowing the badass ideas from DisneySea’s StormRider simulator ride which involves your ship being hit by flying debris from the storm and a piece breaking through the roof of the cabin itself (StormRider also lets you look at the action through the sides of the cabin -  but no word if Star Tours 2 will feature this).  It is also being reported that the ride could have as many as 25 beginning, 25 middle, and 25 ending sequences, giving hundreds of possible ride experiences.   This would be a great idea that would constantly keep the experience a little different every time you ride it.

The ride’s story will be set in the Star Wars timeline between episodes 3 and 4.  According to Slashfilm the ride’s main action sequence will be a chase by Boba Fett and feature Admiral Ackbar (It’s a trap!) holographically communicating to you.  LA Times has also reported that Frank Oz recorded dialogue as Yoda.  All this sounds much better than the old pod racing themed replacement that was heavily rumored back in 2002.  No word yet on when the ride will be updated – most suspect 2010 or 2011.