ORLANDO, Fla. - The opening date for TRON Lightcycle / Run at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom has officially been announced.
Disney had tweeted cryptic social media videos hinting at the anticipated opening date for the new roller coaster. The first video on Monday showed a video game scoreboard with the caption "Need a Clu?" (For those not familiar with the TRON films, Clu is Jeff Bridges character in the Sci-Fi movies). The scores appear to represent important dates related to Disney and the TRON franchise.
On Tuesday, Disney Parks Blog tweeted another video with the TRON lightcycles spelling out the number 4 twice. Hours later, it was announced that the ride will open on April 4, 2023.
"Prepare to enter the Grid. It’s almost your turn. Ready? TRON Lightcycle/Run opens at Magic Kingdom Park on 04/04/23," Disney Parks Blog tweeted.
The story of TRON Lightcycle / Run picks up after ‘TRON: Legacy’ where Kevin’s son, Sam Flynn, has opened a second gateway into a digital realm known as the Grid.
According to Disney Parks Blog, "The first of these portals he created is found at Shanghai Disneyland with the original TRON Lightcycle Power Run."
Once guests enter the queue line, Disney says they'll feel as if they're digitized and transported to the Grid for a special Lightcycle race.
"It’s your Team Blue against the Grid’s menacing Programs, Team Orange. Your goal is to be the first to race through eight Energy Gates and secure victory. The attraction will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world."
According to the blog, cast members will be the first to enter the Grid during special previews, followed by some preview opportunities for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. Details on those events will be announced at a later date.
The TRON ride at Magic Kingdom was announced in 2017 during the Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts presentation at the D23 Expo. At the time, Bob Chapek said the plan was to open the attraction in time for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary in 2021. Six years later, the roller coaster will open right next to Space Mountain.