Disneyland’s Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is known for being an immersive, interactive attraction that captures the arcade-like fun of the ‘Star Wars’ universe. A new update, available from Friday, refines the ride with improved visuals, enhanced participant activities, and a touch of cuteness.
Opened in 2019, Smugglers Run invites six guests to take control of the Millennium Falcon, the ship popularized by Han Solo in the original ‘Star Wars’ trilogy. While Han Solo doesn’t appear, the latest version features Din Djarin, known as the Mandalorian, and Grogu, affectionately called Baby Yoda. The update, coinciding with the release of the film ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu,’ enhances many aspects of the ride and elevates the overall experience.
The changes are not gimmicky but add unpredictability and amusement to the ride. Walt Disney Imagineering has worked on incorporating guest feedback to refine the ride, ensuring it remains exciting and providing participants with greater decision-making power.
According to Asa Kalama, a creative executive with Imagineering, Smugglers Run remains a collaborative adventure. Teams of six confront tasks on the Falcon; the roles include pilot, gunner, or engineer. Imagineering has focused on how these roles interact, infusing improvements into each position.
The ride, initially praised for its detail and excitement, had faced criticism for certain less engaging aspects. Specifically, guests in engineering roles had little involvement, and the storyline was largely an errand for Hondo Ohnaka, who initiates the ride.
The update addresses these issues. Guests can now choose from three renowned ‘Star Wars’ locations: the urban Coruscant, the gas-filled world of Bespin, or the Death Star’s wreckage near Endor. An engineer selects the destination, introducing surprise into the experience.
Leveraging the latest Unreal Engine technology, each location in Smugglers Run is richly detailed, drawing visitors into a fast-paced encounter with the Mandalorian as he pursues pirates and former Imperial officers. Regardless of the route, the adventure feels more engaging and lively.
Smugglers Run has always been responsive, sometimes overly so, as unskilled players could continually crash the ship. Controls have now been adjusted so all participants, regardless of skill level, can enjoy a cinematic flight.
Kalama notes that badly flying guests were previously scolded by Ohnaka’s character, but this element has been mostly removed to prevent guests from feeling criticized.
The ride begins with quick training on Tatooine, after which players join the Mandalorian to thwart a deal between pirates and ex-Imperial officers. This narrative sets the stage for space combat and chases through vivid environments.
Having ridden each of the three unique settings, each presents its own distinct atmosphere. For example, Coruscant is filled with sci-fi lights, while the Death Star’s remains offer a darker, more ominous vibe. The ride showcases both the Mandalorian pursuing targets and the Millennium Falcon evading danger.
For those in gunner or engineer roles, additional clips of Grogu are visible on flight panels, presenting him as a chill, playful companion during the tumult.
Kalama emphasizes the distinctiveness of the locations, stating that each offers a unique feeling and adventure. Whether exploring Endor’s mysterious ruins or Coruscant’s lively streets, guests embark on diverse journeys.
The ride’s pace feels quicker now, although the duration remains around five minutes. For instance, soaring through Bespin’s fiery skies introduces natural wonders and complex structures for guests to enjoy.
Smugglers Run’s improvements include vibrant choices, from selecting destinations to focusing on Grogu’s antics or the dynamic action. These enhancements render the ride more dynamic.
Matt Martin from Lucasfilm highlights that within each location, guests can choose different paths, encountering varied experiences and visuals.
The updates to Smugglers Run also align with broader changes at Galaxy’s Edge, like featuring popular characters such as Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker. Although the additions depart from Galaxy’s Edge’s initial concept, they enhance the theme park experience’s interactivity.