|
The Big Bad Wolf is the perfect example of why I love Busch Gardens Williamsburg. And its not even the parks best coaster, but it does give you an experience that would be hard to find anywhere else. A suspended terrain coaster that flies through a Bavarian village then dives to a river. Try finding that in the Coaster Capital or in California. After dropping off of the short lift hill the train seems to be suddenly possesed with a violent intense amount of speed that seems to come out of nowhere. It still surprises me everytime I ride it. Maybe its common for suspended to seem faster than they are but it makes 45mph feel a lot faster. As you swing through the village (built just for the ride) you can see lights on in windows and other props that add to the effect of a village in fear of the wolf. Next the train comes out of the village, slows to a crawl and then hits the next lift. The second, much longer lift used to have speakers with wolves howling unfortunately I noticed they had been removed on my last visit. Big Bad Wolf feels pretty isolated even though its right there in the park. This is thanks to BGW having so many trees and the rolling topography. Finally, you crest the second hill and dive towards the Rhine River. Right above the river you swoop to the left, take a few more swinging turns and youre back at the station. So why only a seven? The ride is a little rough and may be showing its age some. It also feels a little short even though its much longer than a lot of rides. Also, on a night trip through the village I wasnt as blown away as I used to be, though I couldnt put my finger on why. Overall though, the Wolf is still way more inventive and interesting than your average steel coaster. I wish more coasters were themed this well. FINAL GRADE - 7.5 (Good-Approaching Great)
|