I want to talk about the Smiler at Alton Towers. This ride was a bucket list coaster for a long time. I mean, a year ago I wouldn’t have even considered it but I did it and wanted to share my honest opinion.
I took my first ride on it a few weeks ago and i have to admit, it was probably my least favourite SW coaster. I know people love it and I’ve heard nothing but praise this season but I really thought it had a rattle and that jolt near the end was unforgivable. For a coaster this popular I expected something better. I understand seating is a big factor in wether you get a shit ride or not but It shows the lack of consistency with it. It’s not the worst coaster I’ve ever taken a ride on but it could’ve been so much more. It’s literally inversion after inversion and believe me, that second lift hill break was needed.
Okay, that’s the negative stuff, now for the positives. Despite it not being glass smooth and totally reliant on inversions there’s some great moments. The first was leaving the station. That drop and heartline roll was such a great way to kick it off. The next is the airtime moments. I had a couple of great pops and it really was a nice break from the “loopy loops”.
Another fantastic moment was the video package that plays just before the second (vertical) lift hill. That video was fucked yo but not offensive and really got me pumped for the second half.
The second half itself was a blur (except for that damn jolt). The inversions happen so fast and it kind of feels rushed towards the end but is definitely fun.
Overall it’s a good coaster with lots of bragging rights and elements but I did find it a bit janky.
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