I had a cool mom growing up. I vividly recall how she convinced a group of eight-year-old kids she was watching after school that our old Volkswagen wagon was a real-life Transformers Autobot — which, in the height of the 1980s Transformer mania, was indeed highly likely.
Now, I’ll admit that I feel the nostalgia hit each time I’m at Universal Studios Hollywood and head down to Transformers: The Ride-3D. In the same moment, I also feel the intrigue of what’s “more than meets the eye” through my own 14-year-old son a few decades later.
Whether it was a few years back when he was a kid who loved the toys or my now-teenager’s passion for thrill rides, Transformers: The Ride-3D is a must-do whenever we’re in the theme park. The truth: I’ll ride whether he’s with me or not… it’s that fun. Now, let’s get you ready to ride!
THE STORY
This is a classic good versus evil story. When you enter “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” you become the newest recruit at the military installation that supports N.E.S.T, the Non-biological Extraterrestrial Species Treaty. The battle rages between Megatron and his villainous Decepticons, who want to rule the Earth, and the Autobots, who fight for good to reign.
As you’re being initiated, real life combat conditions begin outside the facility. Autobots Optimus Prime and Bumblebee need your immediate help to secure the most important asset, the AllSpark. The AllSpark is an ancient artifact holding the power to give life to technology. Evac, the Autobot in command, orders all recruits to assist in transporting the AllSpark safely outside the city. The base can no longer guarantee its safety. Immense faith is placed in the new recruits to not give up the AllSpark or the future is at risk — the fate of the Earth is now in your hands!
THE QUEUE
When you approach this attraction, you’ll immediately understand the enormity of what faces you, as Optimus Prime and Megatron loom large above the entrance. You’ll likely hear a “Welcome, recruits!” as you choose to head left for the general line or right to use Universal Express. I love this ride for how committed to the theming every aspect of the experience is, from the team members to the decor.
You’ll then move through “restricted areas” of stark, cement corridors where you will quickly learn there’s been a security breach. Red flashing lights match the urgency of the looming loudspeaker voice informing all recruits that Evac will soon give orders. Several screens throughout the line give further intel, and as you near the end of the line, you’ll start to feel the rush. When you’re handed a pair of Battle Glasses (3D glasses), you’ll know you are about to ride! Don’t put them on yet, wait for your orders… You are a recruit after all!
THE RIDE
Roll out! You’ll be rushed onto Evac the Autobot who, in transport mode, takes charge of the ride. The ride is a self-contained three-row vehicle. Each row seats four for a total of 12 recruits in each car. A lap bar comes down across all passengers and the outer door comes down from the top right to enclose the car. Now that you’re secure, you roll out to save the world.
I absolutely love this ride for how it melds our physical world with the movie world using screen action in between real-life environments. The first scene introduces you to the AllSpark as it’s under attack. Then, you’ll move along to a screen scene featuring music that I admittedly groove to every single time — just try and not dance just a little bit!
The battle goes on to the streets of the city. You’ll now find yourself in a fast-paced sequence of action, at times riding backward, falling from high rises and always one step ahead of the bad guys. The ride is smooth in its movements, yet you’ll definitely feel the transitions from scene to scene and the intensity of the battle.
INSIDER INTEL: There’s no physical drop to worry about in “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” but the sensations can feel real due to the 3D reality effect. What you’ll also feel are some fun 4D effects! Be ready for a light splash, some heat and wind.
As the Autobots face the Decepticon and a clear victor emerges, you’re greeted by more fun music that lightens the mood (again, more dancing in my seat!) and Optimus Prime meets us to declare the outcome. I won’t spoil it, but the ending literally chokes me up every time. (Don’t tell my teenage son — cringe!)
FUN FACT: In addition to Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron, there are 13 other Autobots and Decepticons featured throughout the ride. Can you find them all?
RIDE DETAILS
Here are the nitty-gritty details you need to know about “Transformers: The Ride-3D:”
- This ride is a motion simulation, 3D/4D experience
- Minimum height to ride: 40” (102 cm)
- Best for adults, teens (13–17) and tweens (7–12)
- Supervising companion required for guests under 48” (122 cm)
- Child Swap is available
- Universal Express Pass is available
EXPLORE THE LOWER LOT
Once you exit the ride, you’ll find Production Central directly across from it. Be sure to stop in for a great variety of toys, collectibles and souvenirs. My husband, son and I immediately gravitated to the display in the center, which holds especially cool items like framed mini cells from the movies, collectible toys and more. In the store, you’ll also find fun Transformers gear like T-shirts, plush toys and action figures.
While you’re on the Lower Lot, Optimus Prime wants you to optimize your time. Be sure to plan a visit to the character meet & greet found just before you reach the ride entrance. The schedule is out front showing when you can see Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron. Before you head back to the Upper Lot, check out the other attractions. For our family, another must-do every time is Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride for a more intense thrill.
What’s your favorite part of Transformers: The Ride-3D at Universal Studios Hollywood? Let us know in the comments below.
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