Magic Mountain drops X2 tunnels, keeps special effects

Valencia, CA (LA Times) - Six Flags Magic Mountain has shelved plans to add “ominous” fly-through tunnels to the refurbished X2 roller coaster but still intends to incorporate special effects into the ride as part of a $10-million overhaul.

Scheduled to open May 24, X2 will feature fire and fog effects paired with music evocative of the new volcano-themed logo.

Water dummy tests on the lighter and more aerodynamic X2 trains are expected to begin this week at the Valencia amusement park.

Theme Park Review reports that Six Flags’ mandatory locker policy will be instituted when the prototype coaster with rotating 360-degree seats returns, requiring X2 riders to stow loose articles in a pay locker rather than set them on the exit platform. The lockers will be added to Tatsu, Riddler’s Revenge and Scream as well. (Hat tip to Screamscape.)