The Kaiju Project
The Kaiju project is finally here!
If you keep up to date with my tweets you may have noticed me yapping about 'kaiju' a fair amount, and well, this is it..
'This is not a simple ride. This is not a casual walk in the park. This is a descent into the unknown, where the only certainty is that the beast will rise...'
The project is fairly simple - I provide the brief and some visuals, and participants utilise planet coaster to create the ride itself! There's no big reason behind it really beyond some entertainment and friendly competition over the closed season, it can get pretty boring here in the UK so I thought I would try to make something casual and entertaining to cheer us all up a bit.
With inspiration from Godzilla, Oblivion, Nemesis and various other medias and theme park icons, I pulled together a brief for a new, terrifying dive coaster concept, with the main element inspired by a Godzilla zipline - The dive element of the ride needs to drop into the Kaiju's jaws. (Don't worry! If you don't feel like trying to create the kaiju I am more than happy to just pretend it is there - I struggled to try and make it in a prototype I made to test my idea and ended up using imagination)
The ride is of course not real - It is just fun, however when the project comes to an end I will leave it up to public vote to pick the 'cannon' design of the ride. You can just have the barebones ride or you can theme it up - its all up to choice. If you are a planco pro or just a casual player everyone is welcome to try their hand at the project.
Kaiju can be as simple or as complex as you desire, its all up to how you interpret the brief and envision the attraction!
Here's the brief:
Design an intense, innovative dive coaster experience featuring a massive, crocodilian-like Kaiju creature. The ride must feature a dramatic dive into the creature’s jaws (you can try to create it, or just signify where it is and we can imagine it) as the primary, signature element, but beyond that, the rest of the coaster’s layout and theming is up to you. Bring your wildest ideas to life while following the challenge guidelines below.
Note: Collab's ARE allowed, but you MUST name everyone involved in your project entry
Challenge Requirements:
Dive into the Kaiju's Jaws:
- The must-have element of the design is a dramatic, terrifying dive into the jaws of the Kaiju. This should be the coaster’s central, most thrilling moment. Think about how to build up suspense and intensity leading up to the dive.
- The dive should feel like a perilous plunge, with the rider facing the open maw of the creature—perhaps with added visual or audio effects to enhance the atmosphere. (optional effects)
Theme & Concept:
- The Kaiju itself is a crocodilian-like creature, a massive, prehistoric beast from the depths. Design the coaster’s environment and elements around this monstrous entity.
- The Kaiju theme can be as detailed or as abstract as you like—whether it’s an ancient, apocalyptic beast or a more mythological creature. The backstory and character of the Kaiju should influence the ride experience. (backstory guidelines can be found on the google drive package which will be released on Sunday17th November)
Track Design:
- Use at least one dive element that leads to the "jaws dive," but feel free to get creative with the rest of the ride's layout.
- Incorporate other features like drops, inversions, airtime hills, and twists. Consider integrating moments where riders feel like they are escaping or engaging with the Kaiju in other ways (e.g., the ride could simulate an escape or evading attacks).
- Aim for a balanced ride experience with a mix of intense and suspenseful elements, and a smooth flow throughout.
Aesthetic & Visual Appeal:
- While theming is optional, it can elevate the experience significantly. Think about how to enhance the Kaiju's presence— such as its environment—and how these elements can add to the overall atmosphere of the ride.
- If using scenery or props, consider adding elements like jungle terrain, wrecked ships, water effects, or even stormy skies to make the coaster feel part of a larger, dangerous world.
- Visual consistency is key. Ensure the Kaiju, track, and surrounding elements form a cohesive environment. (if you decide to theme it)
Sound & Effects (Optional):
- Audio effects can greatly enhance the immersion. Consider incorporating sounds like the growls or roars of the Kaiju, stormy winds, or intense music. These can be used to heighten the tension before the dive and amplify the overall experience. This is totally optional, and just an idea if anyone wishes to take on an even bigger challenge or even collaborate
Public Vote & Design Appeal:
- After the submission period, entries will be compiled and the final design will be voted on by the public. Therefore, in addition to technical execution, think about creating something that will stand out visually and conceptually to the voting audience.
- Include details or features that would make your design feel "final" and well-rounded, ready for inclusion in the public vote.
Evaluation Criteria:
Kaiju Dive Element (Thematic & Execution):
- How well is the "dive into the jaws" executed? Does it deliver the thrill and terror it promises? Does it feel like the pinnacle of the ride experience?
Creativity & Innovation:
- How original and imaginative is the coaster design? Does it bring fresh, exciting ideas to the table?
Theming & Atmosphere:
- If included, how well is the Kaiju theme integrated into the ride? Does it feel like a fully immersive experience, or could the ride be happening anywhere?
Ride Experience & Flow:
- How well-paced is the coaster? Does it have a good balance of excitement and moments of tension? Is the track layout smooth but thrilling?
Visual Appeal & Environmental Integration:
- How visually striking is the coaster and its surroundings? Does it create a sense of awe, danger, or adventure?
Public Appeal:
- This will be judged based on the final public vote, so ensure your design is engaging and has broad appeal.
Submission Guidelines:
- Email me the link to your design and the name(s) of the creator(s)
- Send a description of your ride (optional)
- Send a video of the ride POV if you cant send the link
Important Dates:
- Project Start Date: 11th November 2024
- Asset drop (1/?): 17th November 2024
- Submission Deadline: 14th March 2025
- Public Voting Period: March 2025 (Dates TBD)
Prize and Recognition:
- The winning coaster design will be crowned the "Cannon" Design for the Kaiju Dive Coaster attraction, with the opportunity for public recognition and bragging rights. B)
- All entries will be compiled for public voting, and the winner will be chosen based on both technical excellence and creative flair.
Good luck to all participants! We can’t wait to see your Kaiju-inspired rollercoaster designs and experience the thrill of diving into the jaws of a prehistoric beast!
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