The Final Fantasy series remains one of the most enduring, beloved and popular videogame franchises, getting innumerable spin-off videogames, merchandise, films, and now, a theme-part ride at Universal Studios Japan.
In a move seemly designed to make Western Final Fantasy fans cry with envy, The Final Fantasy Ride at Universal Studios is set to only run for a limited time. The attraction will form part of the theme park’s yearly ‘Cool Japan’ event, which is set to feature other beloved Japanese franchises such as Monster Hunter.
Though much of the promotional art revealed so far focusses on the iconic characters of Cloud and Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII, the team at Universal studios are promising that the ride will take visitors to various worlds of the Final Fantasy universe, so there is still a chance of catching a glimpse of Vivi, Kefka, Lighting or Cecil.
The Final Fantasy XR Ride is, in essence, a virtual reality (VR) re-dress of the existing Space Fantasy rollercoaster. In similar fashion to how Galactica at Alton Towers works, riders will don VR headsets at the start of the ride, which are synced to the motion of the ride to provide a smooth and immersive experience, such as a view of a confrontation between Cloud and Sephiroth or a battle against series mainstay monsters, the Cactuars.
In addition, special limited-edition merchandise for Final Fantasy XR Ride will be available, featuring designs and artwork created by Final Fantasy artist and character designer Yoshitaka Amano, like a t-shirt and watch featuring promotional artwork for the ride, or limited edition Moogle and Chocobo plushies.
The ride will open on 19th January, 2018 and Final Fantasy fans will have until 24th June 2018 t experience the ride before the Final Fantasy trappings are removed. VRFocus will bring you further news on Final Fantasy XR ride as it becomes available.