Loaded Couch Potatoes

Just as I had speculated earlier, Jay Rasulo (chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts) announced during his keynote speech that Star Tours 2 will be coming to Disneyland in California and Disney Hollywood Studios at Disney World in Florida.  This project has been rumored to be on the back burner since 2002, and now it’s finally OFFICIAL

The current version of Star Tours will close down in October of 2010, and the new version will open sometime in 2011.  They’ve released piece of concept artwork and a short video.

The upgrade will include a digital projection system that will give passengers a 3D experience.  At the news conference after the presentation Rasulo hinted at the ability to change the ride’s video – sounds a lot like the earlier reports that it will feature many alternate beginning, middle and end action sequences, allowing different ride experiences every time.  I’m curious to how it will all play out – but I wouldn’t be surprised if they slowly bring in the new video, every year announcing a “new destination” for Star Tours.

They also said the simulators will feature new in-cabin special effects.  This is matching up 3 for 3 with the rumors and information that spread earlier this year.

There was no word about the holographic Admiral Akbar or if the ride would feature a chase by Boba Fett (both items reported by Slashfilm back in May).

The only content that was confirmed was a Pod Racing scene, which was shown in 3D to the audience during a presentation (video below).  In 2002 the Pod Racing story was first rumored to be the new version of Star Tours.  Considering how long it’s been since that rumor first surfaced, the technology available today, and the hint of different ride videos, I’m sure Pod Racing on Tatooine will just be one of many different locations riders will encounter.

The concept artwork they released shows off a new red paint job for the Starspeeders. This is another reason why I believe Pod Racing will be just one of many locations. If it was just going to be based on Pod Racing they wouldn’t still be using the Starspeeders, they’d just have people riding in actual Pod Racers.

Here is the video from the announcement at D23. It’s definitely worth watching.

Disney has also released a high quality video of the Pod Racing clip.