BUZZ LIGHTYEAR SPIN GETTING A MAJOR UPGRADE

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Summary

  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Disney World will get a refresh in 2025, featuring new show scenes, redesigned vehicles, and enhanced gameplay.
  • The upgrade introduces “Buddy,” a new support robot, redesigned blasters for improved accuracy, and interactive targets that react when hit.
  • The ride is expected to reopen in 2026 after a temporary closure.

2025 marks the year for a significant upgrade to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, located within Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The iconic Disney attraction is set to receive a new show scene, revamped ride vehicles, and enhanced gameplay elements to heighten engagement and immersion.

The interactive dark ride known as “Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin,” launched on November 3, 1998, in Tomorrowland, is a mission where guests join Star Command to combat the evil Emperor Zurg. Onboard an “XP-37 Space Cruiser,” riders aim and shoot targets with mounted laser cannons, accumulating points and advancing from a lowly Space Cadet to a Galactic Hero. Being the initial Buzz Lightyear-themed shooting gallery attraction in any Disney park, its popularity served as a stepping stone for similar attractions worldwide, such as Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters in Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland.

Based on Disney Parks Blog, the most significant story alteration for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is introduced at the attraction’s start, where a brand new character named Buddy makes his appearance. This character was created in partnership between Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios. Buddy is an upbeat assistance robot who has joined the Space Ranger team. Before the start of each mission, Buddy offers encouragement, checks over departing Star Cruisers, and allows riders to practice their blaster skills on interactive targets. The classic Star Cruisers will undergo a transformation, taking on a design inspired by Buzz Lightyear and the Star Command fleet. Each vehicle will be equipped with a real-time video monitor to show scores and additional gameplay aspects.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Set for Major Overhaul at Magic Kingdom

One significant aspect of the attraction’s renovation involves integrating interactive handheld blasters for a more immersive experience. These new blasters have been engineered to boost accuracy, offering an enhanced gaming experience for all passengers, particularly young visitors. Noteworthy features include perpetually active lasers, two unique blaster colors per vehicle, and additional lighting, sound, and vibration cues to guide riders on their aim throughout the journey. The classic stationary “Z” targets are also set to receive an upgrade, reacting when struck with light to offer immediate visual feedback. This modification paves the way for future advancements that Disney creators are already brainstorming to make the ride more responsive and captivating.

Work on the improved attraction has progressed significantly, as Imagineers have recently conducted a trial run to test the refurbished targets, innovative blasters, and revamped game mechanics. These practical tests are essential for fine-tuning the ultimate experience, allowing designers to determine what functions optimally and where improvements can still be made. To accommodate these upgrades, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will be temporarily shut down in August. The renovated version is anticipated to return in 2026, prepared to usher in a new age of interstellar fun in Tomorrowland.

Visitors can eagerly anticipate an array of fresh attractions and encounters at Disney World, such as a live performance showcasing popular villains at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, along with a significant expansion planned for the Magic Kingdom over the upcoming years. Additionally, Animal Kingdom will introduce attractions themed around both “Encanto” and “Indiana Jones.

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2025-03-26 20:04