1050 Studio, a creator of media-based attractions for theme parks and public spaces around the world, provided interactive media content for the new Cadbury Chocolate Quest ride at Cadbury World near Birmingham, UK, in partnership with interactive technology expert Alterface.
Designed by Merlin Entertainments, this brand-new attraction offers an immersive experience featuring the iconic Cadbury character Freddo, themed sets, virtual screens, and special effects. Working from Merlin Entertainments’ initial design, in collaboration with Alterface, 1050 Studio created the 3D characters, environments, and animations for the new ride.
Bringing characters to life
The studio also implemented all the interactive game mechanics, making the quest to collect Cadbury’s chocolate ingredients an unforgettable adventure. In addition, the team worked with sound and lighting specialists to ensure that everything ran smoothly between software and hardware.
The ride features six interactive scenarios with special effects such as scent, wind, and heat. The popular Cadbury character Freddo and his team of Cadbury Buttons monkeys guide and encourage visitors to gather cocoa pods and milk with “Cadbury Collectors” and later combine them to make a tasty Cadbury treat.
Benjamin Walravens, Alterface show producer, says: “As it happens, Freddo was a perfect match for the storytelling part of the ride, and his team of Buttons monkey friends were just what we needed to bring some fun and mischief to the scene. The animators from 1050 Studio created the monkeys to be the cutest and funniest characters I’ve worked with so far.”
1050 Studio was pleased to work with the Alterface team once more and to collaborate with Merlin Entertainments for the first time. Dani Chakarova, CEO, adds: “Working with beloved characters on such a sweet task and with some of the best partners in the entertainment industry was a true pleasure. We’re happy that we made Freddo and his friends alive for so many chocolate lovers who will dive into this adventure. In addition, this project is very dear to our hearts as the first one released under our new name.”
The firm revealed a major rebrand and new website at the end of 2023. The new branding and website reflect its transition from the gaming field to a new focus on the themed entertainment industry.
