'Harry Potter and the Perpetual Breakdown'

[Tonka's Skipper]

Yep and no park has had a perfect track record at getting them worked out straight away.

Yes the seven dwarves train had no major issues, but there has been plenty of other rides at WDW and Uni and others that have.

Jon, I am sorry, rereading my post I think I messed up the quotes and just straightened it out my error......... but I think we both agree!


AKK

 

[Tink2Day]

I just find these types of threads on a dis-centric board, in the 'Disney Rumors' section totally strange.......just don't get why people feel the need....a 'look at me' issue?


AND if the RR (et all) doesn't want a tit for tat why in the heck even post it? It screams...from the title to the posts...a comparison to how good Disney is and how bad the competitor for the majority of their business it. FJ had issues and breakdowns when it first opened, complaints from people too large to ride. Didn't keep it from being voted best ride......or theme park attraction.


As for quality over quantity? Seriously.....

 

[Figmentforever24]

I believe Test Track was nearly 3 YEARS late in opening

Yes well the ride system for Test Track was so advanced at the time that the computer couldn't handle it. They didn't have computers that could handle a ride system so complicated. Disney went and built their own computer system to handle it. The original ride was to close in 96 and reopen in spring of 97. The computer problems led to a 1999 opening.

I was avoiding this as I think three Universal vs Disney threads in one week is totally dumb. I have rode the ride as I shared in the trip report for the land. The queue is great.....the moving pictures are nothing new. The AA's in the bank are not as advanced as people make them to be. The one at the end is but the others...no. The ride itself is fun and is a very cool experience. The ride stops every few moments so there is no really getting into the ride. Also the coaster portions are not thrilling the least bit. Mainly the car turns which is the coolest part I would say. Basically it moves from theater to theater to stop and you watch a clip. A good ride but it was overhyped more then you can even believe.

 

[clsteve]

Disney's Seven Dwarfs Mine Train has not been plagued with multiple problems and runs quite efficiently. If I had come across a legitimate news article or source citing excessive problems with 7DMT....I would have posted it. But, Disney's little charming family coaster is reliable and well constructed. I'm really impressed with Disney's commitment to quality above quantity.

It's really pretty easy to find the true reliability of 7DMT if you really wanted to know:

http://easywdw.com/reports11/7dmtjune.pdf

But, it doesn't really support your agenda very well, it seems.....

 

[Rumors Rocks]

The OPs tone was that Disney can do no wrong and nothing ever breaks. Whereas we all know that breakdowns happen at all theme parks and often the first six months of a new ride aren't always the best for reliability



I don't feel the OP tone was at all that way.........he was just pointing out the Uni has its growing pains and it is started to be noticed.


For a very long time there has been a select number of posters that did nothing but point out every little thing that happened at WDW, and noted that UNI is doing everything perfectly and better and faster.

Since more people are aware of building short cuts (a very large reliance on Videos and poor effects like the Hogwarts steam engine) and design issues ( more and more break downs)and long lines, and prices going up, UNI is starting the face all the problem that WDW does and there are problems.




There is no reason why either park shouldn't be analysed or criticised, but it should be balanced and realistic.

Thank you, my friend.


Folks, I can assure you that I have no agenda here. The name of the news article is titled "Harry Potter and the perpetual breakdown." If anyone has a problem with the title, I have provided a link to the source and the issue can be address with the author. Unfortunately, this is what the press and the theme park community is reporting. Ironic, how no one appears to take exception with "Comcast is going to cream Disney" --please don't expect to be taken seriously.

 

[momtosam]

Everything we rode at Universal worked fine. Got stuck in the loading area for Mission to Mars and our Magic Bands stopped working on our second to last day. Just say in'.

 

[Rumors Rocks]

Escape from Gringotts is down right now as I am typing. This one was just posted a few minutes ago.....Escape from Gringott's has been down for hours. I feel bad for those guests. I understand their disappointment and frustration but I also appreciate their honest feedback.

 

[TuneTownMagic]

I'm not quite sure if Universal's Diagon Alley should be compared to the New Fantasyland....seven shops and one 3D simulator ride plagued with operation issues, is probably more on par with Downtown Disney and Disney Quest. But once Disney Springs is completed in a few years, I suppose that comparison would no longer be appropriate.

With all due respect, I don't believe that's a fair characterization of Diagon Alley at all. It is way more than seven shops and one ride. If you are going to characterize it that way, then new Fantasyland is merely a new bathroom and two rides. DA is incredibly detailed, and includes interactive elements such as being able to walk around it with a special wand and "cast" spells, speaking to the shrunken head in the double decker bus, and live entertainment; in addition Knockturn alley is part of it too.
Likewise, Fantasyland expansion includes charming and beautiful scenery, new dining, and its own interactive elements (along with the new rides, of course).

I'm actually a much bigger Disney fan, but I gotta give credit where it is deserved.

Rumors Rocks, you are right to point out that a "Uni is better than Disney in such and such regard" topic should be regarded with the same scrutiny (or lack thereof) as a "Disney is better than Uni in such and such regard" discussion. That's very fair and I do not assume you have any agenda going on.

 

[MarknStitch]

I am actually sorry to hear that UNI are having a rougher time of it with this opening. As a massive fan of the Hogsmeade section I do have really high hopes for the Diagon Alley part when I finally get back out there next year. That said, I seem to be reading (not just on here) a fair few, less than positive reviews, comments and so on about the whole Diagon Alley expansion instead of positive glowing ones.

Someone here might be able to recall the actual timeframe but it seems very much like the Diagon Alley section of the HP world had a much faster construction turnaround than that of the original Hogsmeade area. Did that not open later than originally planned too? Perhaps DA was 'rushed' a little?

I don't understand the Disney VS Universal mentality either. I am a Disney man through and through but that doesn't mean I cant appreciate another companies efforts. (I only occasionally scoff when people claim that Universal are going to wipe the floor with Disney for instance )

Personally, I hate to hear any that theme park is having issues (unless it is owned by Merlin... personal grievance there - another story for another day), particularly in Florida. I have always been and will always be a strong believer that when an Orlando attraction pulls something out of the bag that will draw guests in both domestically and internationally it has a benefit to all the Orlando attractions.

My DH and I always try to plan our next visit around the bigger expansion projects. We originally wanted to return to Orlando this year for NFL but we ended up delaying it so that we could also get DA to boot. We are DVC members so we would definitely be staying on WDW property and probably spend a good 75% of our time at WDW with just a couple of days out for the other parks. Ultimately, its meant that Disney isn't getting our money either (this year at least). For us, we normally have to plan out about a year in advance for a 14 night vacation (any less than that is not worth the flight out there) to give us time to save up spending money, flights and so on. If we plan like that, id wager that many other international guests do too, perhaps even some domestic guests too? - Im aware that guys over on that side of the water tend to vacation for shorter stints and so this might not be totally applicable?

With that in mind, if this negative press that UNI are getting was powerful enough to put people off visiting surely that has a knock on effect to Disney?

So I say, with totally selfish thoughts behind it, get your stuff together Universal!

 

[Suvadoo]

:it. But, Disney's little charming family coaster is reliable and well constructed. I'm really impressed with Disney's commitment to quality above quantity.

When 7DMT first opened, every review I read was positive, and then the dust settled. Lately of the reviews I've read on the 7DMT have been mediocre. I think some people think the ride is too short. Once the newness wears off, I wonder if the ride will need FP+. Gringotts may turn out to be another "One and Done". But it's early days for both of these attractions and I don't think anyone knows what will happen long term.

I am glad that Universal is introducing new attractions at an annual rate. I know that they will never be able to compete with Disney, but more Disney guests are reducing their vacation days at Disney to spend time at Universal. I do think this is a positive change for Universal.

I also think it's a real benefit to Dis Fans. If WDW hotel occupancy declines, maybe Disney will start offering room discounts or more free dining packages. I'm also hoping Disney will start increasing MK park hours, maybe 24 hours 2 days /week.

I want both parks to be incredibly successful, because that improves the guest experience. Ultimately when Disney and Universal produce great attractions, we're the winners!

 

[patsal]

I'll be happy when Disney fixes the Yeti completely and I can ride that ride as intended, lol!

 

[Suger Mag]

I'll be happy when Disney fixes the Yeti completely and I can ride that ride as intended, lol!

The Yeti being like it is does not prevent you from riding the ride... I am not a jaded Disney visitor that has gone so many times that the thrill is less. I like EE, and really don't know what the mythical Yeti is supposed to do... from the way some folks carry on it about the Yeti... it must have done some fancy tricks. But even with it like it is, I still can ride the ride like it is intended and I enjoy it as one of my favorites. That is a much different scenario than a malfunction that completely wipes out a ride's ability to operate.

I am looking forward to visiting DA maybe in a year or so... when the crowds have calmed down and maybe the bugs will be worked out. I like the Harry Potter series and my kids have also enjoyed the books and movies. I hope DA it is better than the first version in IOA. I was underwelmed by HP land 1 when we visited ... the dueling dragons was barely rethemed from Fire and Ice, the area too small overall, and really just the shops were the best part. I was unimpressed by the BIG ride for that land which was not helped by the fact the forbidden journey broke down on us leaving us stranded.

I like Uni... I like WDW and am sick of feeling like you HAVE to choose one or the other. Like you can't enjoy them both. More competition will make everyone stronger in the long run. I think part of the problem is too many of the now hard to please Disney fans visit so often that I think they get burned out... and expect WDW to change every year to keep them amused by something new and shiny... and get resentful at Disney. if you eat your favorite food every morning, noon and night... you will get sick of it eventually.

 

[LetsGoToo]

Escape from Gringotts is down right now as I am typing. This one was just posted a few minutes ago.....Escape from Gringott's has been down for hours. I feel bad for those guests. I understand their disappointment and frustration but I also appreciate their honest feedback.

Too bad Disney doesn't have anything that excites people enough to want to wait in line that long.

 

[Suger Mag]

Too bad Disney doesn't have anything that excites people enough to want to wait in line that long.

Ummm don't know where you have been hiding... but people were waiting 5+ hours JUST for a meet and greet with Anna and Elsa. I don't get it... Not for Elsa and not for Gringotts, I think waiting that long for anything besides a baby is ridiculous...

 

[LetsGoToo]

Ummm don't know where you have been hiding... but people were waiting 5+ hours JUST for a meet and greet with Anna and Elsa. I don't get it... Not for Elsa and not for Gringotts, I think waiting that long for anything besides a baby is ridiculous...

Um, people are waiting in line to see Anna and Elsa because of the movie, not because of anything Disney has built in the parks to attract them.

 

[umichigan10]

Too bad Disney doesn't have anything that excites people enough to want to wait in line that long.

I feel like the long line at gringotts has more to do with lack of offerings at the studios park then anything else. It's been a couple of years since I went (I know transformers has been added since) but I didn't feel like there was a ton that caught my interest there just my opinion. Where as the magic kingdom has more offerings that disperse the crowds more to keep the line for the mine train more 'reasonable'. Just my thoughts

 

[Suger Mag]

Too bad Disney doesn't have anything that excites people enough to want to wait in line that long.

Um, people are waiting in line to see Anna and Elsa because of the movie, not because of anything Disney has built in the parks to attract them.

All you said was too bad Disney didn't have "anything"... your word choice not mine... you made no other specifications... I gave you an example of "something" that falls under the catagory of "anything" that got people excited enough to wait.

 

[MuddyTires]

Oh lord, more Disney versus Universal silliness....

 

[Rumors Rocks]

With all due respect, I don't believe that's a fair characterization of Diagon Alley at all. It is way more than seven shops and one ride. If you are going to characterize it that way, then new Fantasyland is merely a new bathroom and two rides. DA is incredibly detailed, and includes interactive elements such as being able to walk around it with a special wand and "cast" spells, speaking to the shrunken head in the double decker bus, and live entertainment; in addition Knockturn alley is part of it too.
Likewise, Fantasyland expansion includes charming and beautiful scenery, new dining, and its own interactive elements (along with the new rides, of course).

I'm actually a much bigger Disney fan, but I gotta give credit where it is deserved.

Rumors Rocks, you are right to point out that a "Uni is better than Disney in such and such regard" topic should be regarded with the same scrutiny (or lack thereof) as a "Disney is better than Uni in such and such regard" discussion. That's very fair and I do not assume you have any agenda going on.

You describe Diagon Alley eloquently but you mustn't take offense to those of us who don't romanticize the Universal Harry Potter experience in the same fashion that you and some of the other Uni fanbois here do. I don't take offense to those who don't like Disney.....to each their own. I will agree that comparing Universal's Diagon Alley to Downtown Disney and Disney Quest is not a fair comparison. Downtown Disney in it's current state-excluding the Disney Springs expansion-is much more vast with plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment options such as La Nouba and Disney Quest. Diagon Alley with seven one dimensional shops and only one simulator ride plagued with "technical difficulties" is really in a league of it's own.

Fantasyland is much more than a bathroom and two rides. The New Fantasyland encompasses both The Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus, and both sections have a combination of food, rides and unique experiences. People tend to overlook the fact that 2 out of the 3 rides in Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter are old established rides that have been in operation for several years and simply given a Harry Potter themed overlay....but none of that changes the fact that it was impressively done.

Disney was the first theme park to introduce innovative interactive role playing games in the theme parks with Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure, followed by a Phineas and Ferb version, Pirate's Adventure: Treasure of the Seven Seas at MK, and of course the critically acclaimed Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom at MK. I wasn't surprised when Universal followed suit, however the "difference" is Disney provides all of this for free to all of their guests, unlike Univeral where guests are required to purchase a $40 dollar interactive wand in order to engage with the Harry Potter interactive elements.

It's also interesting that you should mention "shows." Sadly, Universal is already experiencing embarrassing issues with the interactive props not working in the new 'Tale of Three Brothers Show' in Diagon Alley. I imagine this is the kind of thing Ms. Rowlings was hoping to avoid-the last she wants is her precious Harry Potter brand to be tarnished by what could be easily perceived as Universal's greed and incompetency.

Overall, you've made some excellent points and thanks for chiming in, TuneTownMagic.

I am actually sorry to hear that UNI are having a rougher time of it with this opening. As a massive fan of the Hogsmeade section I do have really high hopes for the Diagon Alley part when I finally get back out there next year. That said, I seem to be reading (not just on here) a fair few, less than positive reviews, comments and so on about the whole Diagon Alley expansion instead of positive glowing ones.

Someone here might be able to recall the actual timeframe but it seems very much like the Diagon Alley section of the HP world had a much faster construction turnaround than that of the original Hogsmeade area. Did that not open later than originally planned too? Perhaps DA was 'rushed' a little?

I don't understand the Disney VS Universal mentality either. I am a Disney man through and through but that doesn't mean I cant appreciate another companies efforts. (I only occasionally scoff when people claim that Universal are going to wipe the floor with Disney for instance )

Personally, I hate to hear any that theme park is having issues (unless it is owned by Merlin... personal grievance there - another story for another day), particularly in Florida. I have always been and will always be a strong believer that when an Orlando attraction pulls something out of the bag that will draw guests in both domestically and internationally it has a benefit to all the Orlando attractions.

My DH and I always try to plan our next visit around the bigger expansion projects. We originally wanted to return to Orlando this year for NFL but we ended up delaying it so that we could also get DA to boot. We are DVC members so we would definitely be staying on WDW property and probably spend a good 75% of our time at WDW with just a couple of days out for the other parks. Ultimately, its meant that Disney isn't getting our money either (this year at least). For us, we normally have to plan out about a year in advance for a 14 night vacation (any less than that is not worth the flight out there) to give us time to save up spending money, flights and so on. If we plan like that, id wager that many other international guests do too, perhaps even some domestic guests too? - Im aware that guys over on that side of the water tend to vacation for shorter stints and so this might not be totally applicable?

With that in mind, if this negative press that UNI are getting was powerful enough to put people off visiting surely that has a knock on effect to Disney?

So I say, with totally selfish thoughts behind it, get your stuff together Universal!

Yes- with the exception of the restaurants and shops, it does appear to be a little rushed-but I can't fault Universal for going out on a limb and trying to recreate the same sensation that was initially felt with Hogsmeade at IOA. I also scoff at those who attempt to say the Univeral is going to wipe the floor with Disney.

When 7DMT first opened, every review I read was positive, and then the dust settled. Lately of the reviews I've read on the 7DMT have been mediocre. I think some people think the ride is too short. Once the newness wears off, I wonder if the ride will need FP+. Gringotts may turn out to be another "One and Done". But it's early days for both of these attractions and I don't think anyone knows what will happen long term.

I am glad that Universal is introducing new attractions at an annual rate. I know that they will never be able to compete with Disney, but more Disney guests are reducing their vacation days at Disney to spend time at Universal. I do think this is a positive change for Universal.

I also think it's a real benefit to Dis Fans. If WDW hotel occupancy declines, maybe Disney will start offering room discounts or more free dining packages. I'm also hoping Disney will start increasing MK park hours, maybe 24 hours 2 days /week.

I want both parks to be incredibly successful, because that improves the guest experience. Ultimately when Disney and Universal produce great attractions, we're the winners!

Overall, this is a pretty good response. That being said, I think I would like to see Universal do something more instead of Spiderman 4D themed 25 different ways-e.g. Shrek 4D, The Simpsons Ride, Dispicable Me, Transformers, and now Escape From Grigotts.

I'll be happy when Disney fixes the Yeti completely and I can ride that ride as intended, lol!

If this is your way of saying that Disney can never make you happy, you've succeeded.

 

[beer dave]

The Yeti being like it is does not prevent you from riding the ride... I am not a jaded Disney visitor that has gone so many times that the thrill is less. I like EE, and really don't know what the mythical Yeti is supposed to do... from the way some folks carry on it about the Yeti... it must have done some fancy tricks. But even with it like it is, I still can ride the ride like it is intended and I enjoy it as one of my favorites. That is a much different scenario than a malfunction that completely wipes out a ride's ability to operate.

The Yeti was amazing in original form. The cave was entirely lit (low level, but lit) You see her as soon as you enter the cave, holding your crumbled track in one hand. She turns and looks right at your train. The visual is that you are going to ride the broken track right up into the ceiling. Just as you get close, she swings her arm and hand down to grab you, right over your head, as the train dives into an opening that you couldn't see due to forced perspective. It was truly the best animatronic display ever.

Please fix.