Like so many kids, there is nothing I wanted more than to be a Super Hero, especially a member of the X-Men. Created in 1963, the X-Men are a team of young mutants who, under the tutelage of Professor Charles Xavier, use their superhuman powers to save the world from evil mutants like Magneto.
As a kid (and subsequently an adult), I had no superpowers. I wasn’t bitten by anything radioactive; I’m not from another planet; and I certainly don’t have billions of dollars. The X-Men gave me hope, though, that maybe someday I could be a Super Hero if I just developed some cool mutation. I waited and waited, but nothing ever happened. Laser beams from my eyes? Nope. Telepathy? Uh-uh. I can’t even parallel park! I thought for sure that my dreams of being a Super Hero were dashed… that is until I discovered Storm Force Accelatron, the best kept secret at Universal Islands of Adventure.
The Story
Tucked away by the entrance to The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Storm Force Accelatron is a spinning ride that was added to Marvel Super Hero Island in the summer of 2000 and has been delighting guests of all ages ever since.
It turns out that the evil Magneto is up to his usual tricks of plotting to take over the world using his magnetic powers, and it’s up to Storm, Professor X and ME to stop him. Storm is a veteran member of the X-Men with the ability to feel and control the elements of weather. For this mission, however, she needs our help. You see, Professor X has built a generator that harnesses the energy of ordinary park guests to enhance Storm’s mutant ability. Together, we’re the only thing that stands between Magneto and an all-out attack against non-mutants. Don’t they know I can’t even parallel park?!
The Queue
When it comes to the ride queue, I’ve got good news and I’ve got great news. The good news is that there are big, beautiful comic book panels explaining the ride’s story to guests while they wait in line. The great news is that you might not have time to read them because the line moves so quickly. When I was there, the sign said it would be a five-minute wait, but I was able to walk right up and get into my vehicle. This attraction is truly the best kept secret in the entire park. In fact, I’ve probably already said too much!
The Ride
It’s a Super Hero twist to the classic theme park spinning ride. Guests step inside circular purple or yellow vehicles with a large wheel in the center. Storm and Professor X then make an announcement, informing guests of their goal to stop Magneto using power generated by our Accelatrons. The faster guests turn their respective wheels, the more collective power they produce to theoretically defeat Magneto and put an end to his plan for world domination. As your vehicle rotates and revolves around a spinning track, thunder booms and lightning flashes from the overhead power generator. At the ride’s conclusion, Professor X lets guests know if they were successful at defeating Magneto. I won’t spoil it, you’ll just have to find out for yourself. If you get motion sickness easily, this might not be the ideal ride for you. But don’t worry about it; Magneto will just take over the world and destroy all of humanity… but you do you.
Pro Tip: If you get the chance, try to ride at night when the lightning is especially vivid.
Ride Details
*There is no minimum height to ride, but riders under 48” require a supervising companion
*This ride does have a Universal Express Pass line.
*The ride is covered, making it one you can enjoy rain or shine
*Storage for your items is available in nearby free lockers for up to 30 minutes
Explore Marvel Super Hero Island
While Storm Force Acceletron has no gift shop, it is conveniently located near Marvel Alterniverse Store. Here you can load up on Marvel merchandise, including clothing, toys and collectibles featuring some of your favorite Marvel characters. If you’re looking for a magnificent meal, Cafe 4 is located right next to the ride and features Italian favorites. If I may offer some unsolicited advice, you might want to eat after the ride.
You may not think that a theme park ride can change your life, but I’m proof that it can. I still may not be able to fire laser beams from my eyes, I’ll never move objects with my mind, I don’t think I can even do one chin-up… But for 90 gloriously dizzying seconds, my dream came true. I got to be a Super Hero.
Is Storm Force Accelatron your favorite ride, too?! Tell us if you’d rather ride it during the day or at night in the comments below or tag us on social media.