PortAventura World in Spain has launched El Diablo Neo, which it describes as the world’s first mixed reality (XR) roller coaster.
With El Diablo Neo, PortAventura World has seamlessly integrated the adrenaline of a coaster with a digital universe, it said in a press release.
El Diablo Neo is an updated version of one of the theme park‘s existing coasters, El Diablo – Tren de la Mina, which translates to El Diablo – Mine Train.
During the ride experience on El Diablo Neo, guests wear headsets that transform the mine into a fantastical world inspired by Mexican mythology.
Andreu Tobella, digital director at PortAventura World, said: “It’s not just about adding a virtual layer to one of our most iconic attractions, but about establishing a new line of technological innovation that will transform the way visitors experience adventure with us.”
Additionally, PortAventura World’s Hysteria in Boothill XR attraction has been updated.
World’s first XR coaster
The eerie experience has been redesigned with clearer storytelling, a progressive narrative arc, and a visually enhanced finale.
It features new scares and improved physical effects such as vibrations, hot air, scents and tactile elements.
PortAventura World said: “Both projects, El Diablo Neo and Hysteria in Boothill 2.0, further establish PortAventura World as an international benchmark in the application of technology to entertainment.”
In 2023, PortAventura World opened its new Uncharted-themed dark ride coaster, created in partnership with Sony Pictures.
Inspired by the 2022 film Uncharted, the multi-dimensional indoor roller coaster features 700 metres of track, five launches, audiovisual effects and immersive elements.
In more XR news, developer DreamPark has revealed plans to create the world’s largest XR theme park.
Images courtesy of PortAventura World
