Disneyland’s Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run has always offered a rich arcade-style experience, diving into the interactive fun of the ‘Star Wars’ universe. This Friday, the ride receives a new upgrade that adds visually appealing enhancements and more participatory options, along with an adorable twist.
Opened in 2019, Smugglers Run allows six players to experience the Millennium Falcon, the iconic ship made famous by Han Solo, played by Harrison Ford in the original trilogy. Din Djarin, known as the Mandalorian, and Grogu, popularly referred to as Baby Yoda, are now part of the adventure. Though linked to the release of ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ film, the updated Smugglers Run improves upon many of its previous shortcomings.
This upgrade brings unpredictability, humor, and increased video game-like zaniness to the ride without feeling like a marketing ploy. Disney’s Imagineering group has listened to visitor feedback, making the ride feel new and giving players more control. As Asa Kalama, Imagineering’s creative executive, puts it, ‘This is an inherently collaborative adventure.’ Participants, including pilots, gunners, and engineers, are more interconnected than ever. On the ride, groups of six team up to manage different tasks within the Falcon’s cockpit.
The ride’s initial release was well-received, particularly for those in the pilot’s seat, controlling the ship’s vertical and horizontal movements. Yet, guests in engineering positions felt less engaged. A storyline involving Hondo Ohnaka, a scoundrel-smuggler setting the ride in motion, seemed like a glorified errand. The technical marvel of Smugglers Run, although impressive, lacked emotional resonance, which the enhancements aim to address.
The new Smugglers Run features three distinct ‘Star Wars’ destinations: urban Coruscant, gas-rich Bespin, and the remains of the second Death Star near Endor. Engineers can decide where to go, elevating the ride’s surprise factor. Utilizing Epic’s Unreal Engine, each destination offers a detailed environment, creating more dynamic encounters as the Mandalorian pursues pirates and rogue Imperial officers.
Flight controllers have been adjusted, making steering more intuitive and pleasant. Now, riders are ensured a cinematic experience regardless of their skill level. Previously, bad flight execution could lead to constant reprimands from Hondo Ohnaka, which has been largely removed. Kalama jokes that guests shouldn’t feel ‘chastised.’
Narratively, after a brief training on Tatooine, players team up with the Mandalorian to thwart an alliance between pirates and rogue Imperials. Each destination offers distinct visuals and atmospheres. Coruscant’s sci-fi neon contrasts with the darker Death Star wreckage. Various exciting moments include the Mandalorian pursuing targets, the Falcon caught in tractor beams, and maneuvering through magnetic barriers.
Additional Grogu clips can be viewed on the adjacent flight panels, showing the playful alien as adorably chill amidst the chaos. Kalama explains, ‘Every planetary location carries a unique vibe emotionally.’
The ride is faster-paced, maintaining a duration of around five minutes. The enhancements provide rich visuals and engaging elements, keeping guest focus on the action despite distractions. Participants have more choices, like where to head or focusing on Grogu’s antics. Each aspect adds dynamic energy to Smugglers Run.
Matt Martin from Lucasfilm states, ‘Different pathways within each planet offer varied experiences.’ Disney’s recent additions, including classic characters like Darth Vader, have invigorated Galaxy’s Edge, although they shift the park from its original real-time adventure concept. Smugglers Run manages to sustain the dream of an engaging, interactive theme park attraction.
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