New details have emerged about the major roller coaster currently under construction at Galaxyland inside West Edmonton Mall, revealing that the attraction will feature two completely different ride experiences.
The new NERF-themed coaster, manufactured by Vekoma, is being built on the site of the legendary Mindbender, which was demolished in 2024 after more than 35 years of operation. The project represents one of the biggest investments in Galaxyland’s history and marks a new era for North America’s largest indoor amusement park.
Two Ride Experiences on One Roller Coaster
According to newly released information, the multi-launch coaster will offer two distinct operating modes.
Guests will be able to choose between a Family Mode, designed to provide a more accessible experience for younger riders and families, and a Thrill Mode, which will deliver a faster and more intense ride. It is expected that the two experiences will be achieved through different launch profiles and ride programming, allowing the same coaster to appeal to a much broader audience.
If implemented as planned, it would be one of the first roller coasters of its kind to offer two substantially different ride experiences.
Impressive Specifications
The new Vekoma coaster will stand 32 metres (105 feet) tall and feature 579 metres (1,900 feet) of track.
During its most intense ride programme, trains will reach speeds of up to 74 km/h (46 mph). The attraction will include multiple launches and is expected to combine family-friendly accessibility with the dynamic elements that have become a hallmark of Vekoma’s latest-generation launch coasters.
The coaster will also be heavily themed to the popular NERF brand, continuing the partnership between Hasbro and Galaxyland that began with the announcement of the park’s extensive redevelopment.
Replacing an Indoor Legend
The new attraction occupies the site once held by Mindbender, the iconic indoor triple-loop roller coaster manufactured by Schwarzkopf.
When it opened in 1985, Mindbender was one of the world’s largest indoor roller coasters and remained the signature attraction at Galaxyland for decades. Following its closure and demolition, many enthusiasts wondered what could possibly replace such a legendary ride.
With its dual ride modes, modern launch technology and NERF theming, the new Vekoma coaster aims to usher in a new generation of indoor thrills while honouring the legacy of one of North America’s most famous indoor roller coasters.
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