It’s a question I often see debated amongst fellow enthusiast and it’s also left me wondering would it be as good if it was stripped back to simply just the track? Let’s have a chat shall we?
The Layout:
We have to start at the basics which are of course the layout. If you stripped all the extra details away from it how good would it be? Some of my personal aspects of the layout is the sections which gives those enormous pops of airtime. As many will know I am addicted to airtime it’s a sensation which I am absolutely in love with. So the first two drops are something which I think are fab. I personally can’t see how the extra details impact them neither. My next favourite bit is the drop after the turn around point as you pass through the Wickerman into the brake run. Those are my personal highlights of the layout. I love the twist and turns especially on a moist track.
Stripped Back The Track Theming:
The main bit of theming amongst the track itself is of course big Bob. During day rides I can’t really see how it impacts the ride all that much. So take that away when it’s light and I think the coaster would be equally as a fab. It just adds that extra bit of detail but wouldn’t say it makes the ride. But if we fast forward to the rides during the dark then it’s a whole different story. The fire effects, lighting & mist during any night ride just simply enhances it so much. It takes a good layout but creates an insane ride. It’s easy on the eyes off ride but immense on the ride.
Extra Theming:
During the 2020 season it has shown how much easier the operations are without the pre show. Of course, the room is still there so is the theming and that room been static is equally as beautiful & impressive as it is when it’s operational in my opinion. I personally loved having the opportunity to really embrace the lighting, attention to detail and just simply admiring how gorgeously done that space is. So without the pre showroom rather than actual show itself I do think the coaster would lack that initial anticipation for the ride & beauty almost. Same goes for the shop if you just exited into a plain shop I do think the ride experience would loose such a spark. The fact this coaster comes with a complete package from the moment you step inside to exit makes it that bit more special.
Overall:
I think Wickerman would never be the ride it is if it was stripped back to basics. The theming & finer details really have tailored the experience into something more than just a wooden rollercoasters. I love the layout but also didn’t realise until writing this the impact that every other bit of detail regarding this coaster truly has. I’ll always say how lucky we are to have this absolute beauty amongst our coaster line in the UK. I think Alton Towers & the entire team who were involved in the making of it have done an outstanding job!
What’s your opinions on this topic?
