Though Final Fantasy has never been more than a niche franchise in North America, it's one of Japan's biggest properties, and the newly announced 'Final Fantasy XR' roller coaster shows the extent to which the video game is a marketable product in the country. Universal Studios Japan theme park will open up a limited edition virtual reality ride based on the Final Fantasy franchise using a preexisting VR coaster at the park.
Though the physical coaster will be the same as Universal Studios Japan's 'Space Fantasy the Ride', the VR experience is completely tailored to Final Fantasy. According to a report from Engadget, the ride has guests "board airships and warp between various Final Fantasy worlds, meeting up with heroes and jeopardy along the way".
Fantastical VR Roller Coasters
The 'Final Fantasy XR' Ride Will Open at Universal Studios Japan
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Reality Coasters - Opportunity for incorporating virtual reality technology into roller coasters to create immersive and customizable experiences.
2. Franchise-based VR Attractions - Potential for theme parks to collaborate with popular franchises to create virtual reality rides and attract dedicated fanbases.
3. Marketability of Video Game IP - Increasing recognition of the marketability of video game intellectual properties, such as Final Fantasy, for various consumer experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Theme Parks - Theme parks can explore the integration of virtual reality technology to enhance existing roller coasters and create unique attractions.
2. Video Games - Video game companies can explore strategic partnerships with theme parks to develop immersive virtual reality experiences based on their popular franchises.
3. Entertainment - The entertainment industry can leverage the popularity of video game intellectual properties to create immersive consumer experiences through collaborations with theme parks.