Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars land in Walt Disney World, now has its second ride up and running, and it’s one of epic proportions.

Rise of the Resistance is an experiential, immersive ride that’s a full 18 minutes long. (For comparison, the Rock ‘N’ Roller coaster lasts some 82 seconds.)

Along the way, you’ll encounter the First Order, come face to light saber with Kylo Ren and speed along under giant, true-tothe-movie-sized AT-ATs.

“We wanted guests to be the heroes of their own Star Wars story,” says creative executive imagineer Scott Trowbridge, who has dedicated the last six years to bringing the ride to life.

Guests play the part of new recruits of the resistance, ready to leave Batuu (aka Galaxy’s Edge) for a secret rendezvous with General Leia Organa on a secret base. After a lively briefing from BB8 and a “how-did-they-do-that” hologram of Rey, we’re on our way inside an X-wing fighter.

Things don’t turn out as planned. The First Order tractor beam intercepts, and we’re removed into a hallway full of stormtroopers (cue the audible gasps) and promptly arrested.

After a dramatic rescue, we board transporters manned by droids, and these trackless, sleek vehicles proceed to zip through the destroyer in all directions on a zany ride. We see a giant hangar full of AT-ATs and a docked TIE fighter, all while dodging giant cannons and the wrath of Kylo Ren. Will we make it out?

The genius of the ride is that it takes us through several layers of story, blurring the lines between the queue, the preamble and the ride itself. The visual details, like the windows through the X-wing mirroring the time of day outside, gives a deep reality to proceedings.

The level of detail was necessary because “Star Wars fans are very savvy,” says John Larena, creative director of imagineering.

One thing that doesn’t change? The gift shop, which now stocks a litany of brand new merchandise. (But, alas, no baby Yoda.)

Rise of the Resistance is at Disney World in Orlando and opens in Cali’s Disneyland on Jan. 17.

Please them, you will, with these Star Wars treasures

View Slideshow

Source: Read Full Article