Millennium Force still holds one record: it continues to be the most misspelled roller coaster on earth. Here is a ride that represents much of what troubles me about modern coaster design. Because it was built first and foremost to break records, it lacks overall balance. The layout after the first hill is unimaginative and seems designed to do nothing so much as contain the speed of the ride. MF is a trophy coaster; its big and impressive-looking but within the capabilities of most 10-year-olds. Its glassy smooth and wholly undemanding; the scenery moves by quickly, but the Gs (both positive and negative) never amount to much. Despite its big-league size, this coaster was undeniably built for the masses. And, of course, its steel.
I could go on and on with the philosophical objections, but even principle (or snobbery) cant make hate this coaster. Its just too much fun to ride. The first hill is the best on any steel coaster, and among the best, period. Big ups to CP for making the lift part of the thrill; the angle and speed of the ascent really get the adrenaline going, especially near the top when the pace increases. And, oh, mama, that drop. You wouldnt think 70 or so extra feet and few more degrees of steepness would make that much of a difference over other hypers, but they do. Where I notice it most is in the turbulence. One guy I talked to in line said the wind from the first drop actually unbuttoned his shirt. Ive always wound up riding MF at night, and I even like that Who-Wants-to-Be-a-Millionaire-esque light show and theme song.
I dont have much to add to the usual complaints about the rest of the layout except to say that its not nothing. Even hauling ass as it does, MF treats you to a nice, long ride. The overbanked and fan turns are fun, and while riding in the back, Ive caught some decent floater air on the small hill leading into the tunnel. The openess of the rolling stock is great, and the restraints arent overdone. Ive yet to be abusively stapled by a CP ride op, front or back.
One of my secret shames is that Ive always liked the song "Mmm Bop." I feel sort of the same way about MF. I cant love it unselfconsciously, but I still love it.
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