Sega Amusements Introduces Two-Passenger Sonic Kiddie Ride With Dual Controls

LONDON -- Now available from Sega Amusements is the two-rider Sonic Kiddie Ride. The music-enhanced entertainment piece puts both players in control of a sports car identical to the one that Sonic the Hedgehog drives in the hit game Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing Arcade, familiar to young Sonic fans around the world.

The colorful, well-detailed racecar incorporates two steering wheels, so each player can participate in the action. That action is enhanced by music from the kart-racing videogame, a sound track that completes the "in-the-game" immersive experience.

"Having two steering wheels creates real value for accompanying adults," explained Sega president and chief operating officer Paul Williams. "It's a two-for-one deal for the adult, and perhaps more importantly, it's a nice way to keep the peace between two kids, as both get to play at once."

Measuring 81" D. x 45" W. x 54" H., and weighing 397 lbs., the Sonic ride features LED headlights, directional signals and tail/brake lights. After inserting a credit, players hit the start button to actuate the ride's kinetics, lights, music and horn. Ride time is operator-programmable.

Sonic the Hedgehog dates back to 1991, when Sega created a mascot to rival Nintendo's flagship character, Mario. The one Sega conceived was blue, to match the color of the company's corporate logo, and wore big red boots, whose style was inspired by Michael Jackson (the color was inspired by Santa Claus).

Since then, Sonic has sold more than 140 million games, and is in his fifth animated television series, "Sonic Boom," on the Cartoon Network now. A full-length feature film is in development with Sony Pictures Entertainment.

The entertainment company's mascot also themes its Sonic Arcade Sports line. Introduced a few years ago, these Sonic-inspired coin-op sports games have raised the perceived entertainment value of otherwise generic basketball and air hockey devices.

"Later this year, Sega will again leverage this excellent brand by adding two more Sonic-themed titles, Sonic Dash Video Redemption and Sonic Blast Ball Mechanical Redemption," Sega general manager Peter Gustafson disclosed. "With all this product, you can expect to see a solid wall of Sonic fun at the upcoming IAAPA Attractions Expo." | SEE STORY

This year, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions will conduct its Attractions Expo at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, from Nov. 16 through 20. Sega Amusements will exhibit in booth No. 1606.