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Orlando’s ICON Park pauses controversial shooting game

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The current version of ICON Park’s shooting game will be redesigned amid criticism.

Orlando‘s ICON Park has paused a controversial target shooting game called Bullseye Blast that allowed guests on The Wheel to shoot at targets across the theme park.

The current version of the shooting game will be redesigned amid criticism following the recent mass shootings in New York and Texas.

In a statement (via ClickOrlando), ICON Park said it will create an attraction that “does not offend anyone in the community”.

Bullseye Blast to be redesigned

ICON Park’s full statement is below:

“Following recent, well-received innovations from The Wheel at ICON Park, which provide customized experiences for guests, allowing them to play their own music playlist or listen to Orlando’s history story, the Bullseye Blast game satisfied guests who enjoy gaming, arcades and virtual reality. From capsules, guests use a toy infrared device to compete and hit round, colorful targets on rooftops. The experience was thoroughly tested and well received by guests during a process spanning many months.

“Some non-guests and community members expressed that they considered the toy shooting device used to be insensitive. The attractions industry has many similar games which use similar shooting devices, so that is what we were limited to when exploring the game. However, we believe that a device can and should be designed which does not offend anyone in the community. We look forward to leading this new innovation.

“During the design process we will pause the current version of the game. Just like all electronic games are improved over time, we will pursue a new design that will deliver the same level of customized fun for guests, in a way that the entire community can embrace.”

Earlier this year, 14-year-old Tyre Sampson fell from ICON Park‘s Free Fall ride and died. An investigation later found the teenager was nearly 100 pounds over the weight limit.

Images: ICON Park

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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