The “What’s New, What’s Next” presentation held in Orlando confirmed that Toy Story Mania! will open at the Disney-MGM Studios in 2008, in the space formerly occupied by “Who Wants to be a Millionaire — Play It!” The new ride, also opening in Disney’s California Adventure, marks the first time an attraction has been designed and built simultaneously at Disneyland Resort and at Walt Disney World. The attraction will “set a new standard” for interactive ride/game technology. When you enter the attraction, you’ll be greeted by the “barker,” Mr. Potato Head, who, using technology similar to that found in Epcot’s “Turtle Talk with Crush,” will interact with guests. Then guests of all ages will put on 3-D glasses and ride themed vehicles along a route lined with “classic midway games of skill,” while shooting their toy cannons at animated targets. As you ride, you’ll pass through a series of games hosted by various Toy Story characters, like Bo-Peep and the Little Green Men. The ride will also be able to determine individual users’ skill levels and will increase the degree of difficulty accordingly.

Also announced, was the pilot program called Disney’s Online Concierge. Now being tested throughout the Contemporary Resort, the program involves each room having its own computer that provides a variety of services to guests. Guests can use the computer to check on flights, order room service, play videogames, connect to Disney internet sites, and contact valet and bell services. The online concierge will also send personal emails to the guests, with information on the upcoming day’s events and weather. If the program proves successful, it will be expanded and may eventually allow guests to make online reservations at Disney restaurants.

add to del.icio.us

The “What’s New, What’s Next” presentation held in Orlando confirmed that Toy Story Mania! will open at the Disney-MGM Studios in 2008, in the space formerly occupied by “Who Wants to be a Millionaire — Play It!” The new ride, also opening in Disney’s California Adventure, marks the first time an attraction has been designed and built simultaneously at Disneyland Resort and at Walt Disney World. The attraction will “set a new standard” for interactive ride/game technology. When you enter the attraction, you’ll be greeted by the “barker,” Mr. Potato Head, who, using technology similar to that found in Epcot’s “Turtle Talk with Crush,” will interact with guests. Then guests of all ages will put on 3-D glasses and ride themed vehicles along a route lined with “classic midway games of skill,” while shooting their toy cannons at animated targets. As you ride, you’ll pass through a series of games hosted by various Toy Story characters, like Bo-Peep and the Little Green Men. The ride will also be able to determine individual users’ skill levels and will increase the degree of difficulty accordingly.

Also announced, was the pilot program called Disney’s Online Concierge. Now being tested throughout the Contemporary Resort, the program involves each room having its own computer that provides a variety of services to guests. Guests can use the computer to check on flights, order room service, play videogames, connect to Disney internet sites, and contact valet and bell services. The online concierge will also send personal emails to the guests, with information on the upcoming day’s events and weather. If the program proves successful, it will be expanded and may eventually allow guests to make online reservations at Disney restaurants.

add to del.icio.us