Hulk: Epsilon Base 3D at IMG Worlds of Adventure in Dubai features a first-of-its-kind motion-platform choreographed with 3D dome projection to deliver unexpected thrills.
Client: IMG Group
Services: Attraction Design, Media Production
Products Used: Circumotion Theater
Location: Dubai, U.A.E.
Guests who venture into the amazing Marvel Zone at IMG Worlds of Adventure will come across an imposing building that houses Epsilon Base, a top-secret military installation built into a desert mountainside.
Passing through the “security checkpoint,” the guests, or VIPs in this adventure, can detect distant sounds that work together to create an impression of a high-tech facility in a whirl of non-stop activity.
Guests then enter the Thunderbolt Hall of Fame where they can see the evolution of the massive combat robot, documented through a series of displays featuring drawings and technical schematics. The VIPs learn that the Thunderbolt robots have been developed to neutralize superhuman enemies, like the Hulk.
Moving into the next room, the VIPs encounter a detailed battlefield model. As the model and graphics reveal, the simulated “battlefield” is the desert plain beyond the foot of the mountain containing Epsilon Base. Lighting effects and projection mapping accompany narration, providing a comprehensive preview of the impressive show of strength awaiting the VIPs.
Moving into the staging area, the volume of military chatter rises, but everything seems under control. The focus is a large light-box featuring a full-size graphic of a Thunderbolt Mk. 7 warfighting robot, which is comparable to Hulk’s enormous size.
The VIPs then enter the briefing room, where they are greeted by General Ross, commander of Epsilon Base, who is seen on a large video screen. From his command center, he welcomes them and says that, in moments, they’ll witness a demonstration of the most advanced military hardware available. The VIPs are potential buyers of these superior machines…the Thunderbolt Mark 7.
General Ross’s briefing is hijacked by Leader, an evil villain, who ominously threatens the demonstration with a “real” demonstration of power. General Ross then comes back to cancel the demonstration and divert the VIPs to the IRIS, or Independent Rescue Integrated Shuttle. The VIPs make their way to the IRIS docking bay, which is the CircuMotion® Theater, a 60’ diameter 3D dome projection system combined with a unique motion platform with 4 degrees-of-freedom.
Once all 100 guests are safely buckled into their seats aboard the CircuMotion ride platform, the 3D content begins, and the platform starts moving. Within a few seconds, we learn that Epsilon Base has lost control of the Thunderbolts. The leader has gained the upper hand and is ready to unleash his fury. His task isn’t going to be easy, though, because Hulk and his plus one, Iron Man, make a timely appearance to ensure Leader’s criminal intentions are not realized.
Concept art for Hulk Epsilon 3D
In full white-knuckle mode now, guests watch as the two heroic Marvel characters take aim at their opponents in a captivating 3D scuffle. The gripping action takes place on the walls of the domed theater and strategically placed heads-up displays, which show guests what’s happening on the other side of the room.
VIPs are taken around multiple areas of Epsilon Base as they witness this dramatic tussle. Eventually, the action erupts into the desert for the finale. With brute strength, Hulk gets the tenuous situation under control and saves the VIPs just in the nick of time.
The CircuMotion® Theater, a Falcon’s Creative Group patented product, is a first-of-its-kind system that gives new meaning to the word “immersive.” There was previously no attraction in the world that combined a multi-motion ride platform with a 3D 360° dome.
A 24.4 channel surround sound system plays a role, too, wrapping around the audience in well-timed sound effects and music that seamlessly flow with the visuals, adding to the overall impact.
The ride experience is totally different depending on where guests sit. Not only are the seats facing different areas of content and story moments throughout the theatrical presentation, but the visceral experience can also change depending on the row. The outer rows have more acceleration and torque, while the inner rows, closer to the center of the platform, are less intense.
