Nerf Roller-Coaster Nears Completion

A new Nerf-themed roller-coaster is nearing completion at Galaxyland in West Edmonton Mall, replacing the decommissioned Mindbender roller-coaster that closed in January 2023. The Mindbender, which was the world's largest indoor triple-loop roller-coaster when it opened in 1985, had a top speed of 90 km/h and was known for its intense ride experience.

The new roller-coaster features two ride modes: family-friendly 'Core' mode and thrilling 'Quantum' mode, allowing riders to choose their level of thrill. This approach is intended to allow riders to graduate from one mode to the other as they become more comfortable with the ride.

The new coaster has a launch start instead of a traditional hill ascent, which is a departure from the clickety-clackety, anticipation-building hill ascent of the Mindbender. The Mindbender was decommissioned after nearly four decades of operation, and its replacement has been highly anticipated by coaster enthusiasts.

## What's Next The new roller-coaster is manufactured by Dutch company Vekoma, and construction began last fall. While some enthusiasts may have been hoping for a coaster as extreme as the Mindbender, the new coaster's design appears to be slightly tamer. However, its family-friendly approach and choose-your-thrill experience are expected to make it a popular attraction at Galaxyland.

The replacement of the Mindbender with a new, more family-friendly coaster marks a significant change for Galaxyland. The Mindbender was a iconic part of the indoor theme park, and its closure was met with nostalgia from many who had ridden it over the years. The new coaster's completion is expected to bring a new era of excitement to Galaxyland, and its unique features are likely to attract both new and returning visitors.

## Background The Mindbender's legacy as a thrill ride will be remembered by many, but the new coaster's focus on family-friendliness and flexibility is expected to make it a hit with a wider range of visitors. As Galaxyland admissions manager Devin Carradine noted, the goal is for people to be able to grow with the coaster, starting with the family-friendly mode and graduating to the more thrilling mode as they become more comfortable.

The new coaster's completion is a significant development for West Edmonton Mall, which has been a popular destination for shoppers and thrill-seekers alike. With its unique features and family-friendly approach, the new Nerf-themed roller-coaster is expected to be a major draw for visitors to the mall.