In a display of self-promotion that would make Tony Stark blush, Marvel is launching a massive “hyper-reality” traveling attraction to celebrate itself. Housed in seven massive domes that cover over two acres of land, the “Marvel Experience” will be part museum, part carnival, part terrifying Matrix-like future. According to a press release, the experience “incorporates next-generation interactive technology including augmented reality, multi-person gaming and RFID progress tracking so you can see yourself in action.” The whole thing is held together by a story in which guests will “train” with Spider-Man, the Hulk, and Iron Man in order to become Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D and battle the Red Skull. There will also be Marvel collectibles, a life-size version of the Avengers’ Quinjet, a 3-D projection dome, a 4-D motion ride, and, of course, a “hero-themed” dining area.
While at New York Comic Con, producers unveiled the official travel schedule. The experience will preview in Phoenix, Arizona from December 12, 2014 to January 3, 2015 before officially opening in Dallas, Texas on January 9, 2015. San Diego and San Francisco are also scheduled to host the experience before it moves to the East Coast and beyond. Tickets and more information are available on the Marvel Experience website.
The site is quick to note that the attraction won’t be just for kids, claiming that the event was actually created with an eye to Marvel’s “extensive fan base over the age of 25.” Elsewhere, the site also warns that for those who fail in their ultimate battle against Hydra, “There’s no going home.” Presumably, that means guests of all ages should be prepared to stay in this new hyper-reality forever.