EVAC, a new autobot created specially for the attraction
It’s a night of 3D thrills and spills as Transformers The Ride made its global premiere at Universal Studios Singapore.
Rumoured to cost more than S$100 million and to take more than four years to plan and build, Transformers The Ride is probably one of the world’s most expensive theme park attraction. It is also the world’s first theme park based on the popular robot franchise from Hasbro, with the next opening in Universal Studios Hollywood in 2012.
Decked to resemble the military NEST (Networked Elements: Supporters and Transformers) facility from the series, Transformers The Ride is located within Sci-Fi City. Considered Asia’s most technologically advanced motion thrill ride, the attraction includes a retail store (Transformers Supply Vault) for die-hard fanboys and a food and beverage venue (the Starbot Cafe). Theme park guests will also be welcomed by walking Optimus Prime and Bumblebee characters.
Thanks to Matthew and Krist from Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), I experienced the unveiling of the ride last night, graced by Transformers film director and executive producer Michael Bay. Join me on a visual journey as I embark on the “Ultimate 3D Battle”.
Striking a pose with a serious looking NEST “army officer”.
Entering the “highly protected” NEST facility. I’m amazed at the number of screens they have throughout the themed attraction!
Robot party central, with a huge screen in the middle of the stage. Wait a minute, isn’t that…
…Bumblebee? Yes, he is perched high up keeping a watchful eye on us.
Genting Group Chairman Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay addressing the audience, joined by Universal Parks & Resorts boss Tom Williams.
Watch this video to witness the dramatic entrance of Transformers film director Michael Bay.
These “soldiers” in camouflage joined in the action next, bringing in the “Allspark” for the launch.
VIPs and the winner of a contest (who has the Autobot insignia shaved on his head!) launching the ride by giving “power” to the “Allspark” shard.
After a puff of smoke and pyrotechnics, they were joined by Optimus Prime and Bumblebee! Who says a robot cannot be in two places at one time?
Enough of the ceremony – let’s dive into the action!
We walked through rather long passageways built to resemble the facility. Thankfully, there was never a dull moment with lots of anticipation building stuff to see.
Intruders are obviously not welcomed here.
Optimus Prime abandoned the VIPs he was accompanying earlier and barking us our orders.
I thought these computers and buttons had a certain old school feel.
Another shard of the Allpark, “powering” our adventure.
Somebody lost his metallic arm here…
… no wonder he is pissed like hell (its Megatron by the way).
OK kids, here’s how you do it. Sit four in a row, stay behind the safety bar, and don’t try anything funny!
The metallic cast of the movie and the ride are presented in this “computer”.
Almost there guys, now pick up your glasses and get ready.
Striking another pose, with the EVAC ride vehicle in the background.
My final shot before I was “commanded” to put away my camera. The ride itself was all headspinning, vertigo inducing, and hyperrealistic 3D excitement. It was awesomely action-packed, with winds, water, heat, smoke, and lights transporting one to the scene of a furious battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. I’d rate it 110% for its heart-lurching gut-wrenching action.
After the ride, we carried our limp bodies into the well stocked retail store, stocked with all kinds of Transformers toys and merchandise.
I like this glass showcase of the robot toys on sale here, bathed in blue light.
Feeling hungry after the mission? Fear not as you can fuel up at the Starbot Cafe.
Outside, the party is still going on with a band (was it Jive Talkin?) performing. In the foreground is the world’s most famous Chevrolet Camaro.
More indulgences after all that “hard work” battling giant alien robots!
Woah. That looks really interesting. Do we need to pay extra for the ride or is it included in the entry fees? The queue must be long eh? Since I suppose only a couple of people can sit on the machine at one time.