I've been on it a few times since referb, it's exactly the same. The tracks haven't changed. Although the lights are different, in some places its way darker in some it's way lighter. And theres the game you play in line. Really not that amazing of a game, but it helps make the wait more enjoyable.
They do, and it's at the VERY beginning, so as to not disturb your ride and the utter darkness. So be prepared for the start of the ride, that's when the picture is taken.
For me, the ride seems bumpier and slower. In the waiting line there are screens all along the wall for people to play. But I would suggest getting a Fastpass even though that line doesn't have the games because you don't have to wait as long. Personally, I liked the old Space Mountain better.
I like it better, actually, the darkness makes it harder to know what's coming and more thrilling, even though I'd been on it several times. I say check it out yourself before you listen to us past the darkness, the photo, and the games ^__^
So as not to rehash what everyone else has said, in the new queue, there's a bunch of windows and a little asteriod shooting game to play while you wait in line. But yeah other than that the ride is darker. Expedition Everest was better imho. Disney world needs more amazingly fast thrill rides. There's plenty of kid rides there. I want them to make a ride that I will be afraid to go on.
I dont know if the ride changed or not since it was always dark and hard to see. But its still fun and make sure to smile at the very beginning for the picture. And it hasnt really changed in my mind...and with the pic you can do silly poses.